Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s both comforting and indulgent, then this Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe is just what you need! These cookies have a charming texture that strikes the perfect balance between soft and chewy, with the added crunch of toasted pecans and the sweet, tropical flavor of shredded coconut. It’s a recipe that’s close to my heart, as it reminds me of cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen with loved ones. Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight dessert or for a family gathering, these cookies will surely bring smiles all around.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly simple to whip up! With minimal chilling time and just one bowl needed for mixing, you can have these Coconut Pecan Cookies ready in no time. They’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This cookie dough comes together in one bowl with just a few simple steps.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the chewy texture and nutty flavor—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake whenever you’re ready.
• Versatile flavors: The combination of coconut and pecans makes for a deliciously unique cookie experience.
• Comforting treat: These cookies are great for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for your Coconut Pecan Cookies is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s get started!

For the Cookie Dough

• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
• 1½ cup (180 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• ½ cup (46 g) toasted pecans, roughly chopped
• ½ cup (60 g) shredded coconut

Variations

This Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe is quite flexible! You can easily modify it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Use different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Try dried fruit: Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins along with the coconut for a fruity twist.
• Coconut flour alternative: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with coconut flour—just adjust the liquid accordingly!

How to Make Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Start by melting your unsalted butter in a small bowl. After melting, let it cool in the fridge for about 15 minutes. Cooling it down helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until they are well combined. This step ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the cooled melted butter with both sugars until smooth. Then add in your egg and vanilla extract. Mixing these wet ingredients well creates a lovely base full of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Next, stir the dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies tender! Gently fold in those delicious shredded coconut and toasted pecans at this point—this is where the magic happens!

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover your cookie dough and pop it into the fridge while your oven preheats to 375°F (190°C). Chilling helps enhance flavors and makes it easier to scoop out those perfect cookie balls.

Step 6: Scoop & Bake

After preheating for about 20-30 minutes, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons), place rounded balls of dough on the sheet about three inches apart. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 9-11 minutes or until their edges are lightly golden brown.

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy

Once they’re out of the oven, give them five minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely—and then enjoy every yummy bite!

With this easy Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe, you’ll have delicious treats ready in no time! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll elevate your coconut pecan cookies to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your egg and melted butter are at room temperature helps them mix more thoroughly, resulting in a smoother dough and chewier cookies.

• Toast the pecans: To bring out their rich flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for just a few minutes until they are fragrant. This adds depth to your cookies that will have everyone asking for seconds!

• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently combine your wet and dry ingredients until just blended. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, while light mixing results in soft, chewy treats.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes not only helps the flavors meld but also prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, helping them maintain a nice shape.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary greatly, so start checking your cookies at the lower end of the baking time range (9 minutes). You want them golden around the edges but still soft in the center!

How to Serve Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe

Serving your coconut pecan cookies can be as fun as baking them! Here are some delightful ways to present this sweet treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top can add a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Coconut flakes: Sprinkle some extra toasted coconut on top before serving for added texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla almond milk: A glass of chilled vanilla almond milk pairs beautifully with these cookies, enhancing the nutty flavors without overpowering them.
• Fresh fruit salad: The freshness of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies. Consider berries or citrus for a refreshing side.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, complements the sweet and nutty notes of the cookies perfectly.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some dairy-free yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a delicious side that balances out the sweetness of your cookies.

Enjoy making your Coconut Pecan Cookies and savor every bite! These tips and serving suggestions will make your cookie experience even more delightful. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These coconut pecan cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, store them, and enjoy them fresh throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your cookies in tip-top shape.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Enjoy within 5-7 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Freeze cookies individually on a baking sheet for about an hour until firm.
• Transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen or refrigerated cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 5-7 minutes, just until warmed through, and enjoy!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

How can I make Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe gluten-free?

You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend has xanthan gum or add it separately for better texture.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in the Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans add a unique flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds based on your preference.

What is the best way to store Coconut Pecan Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer freshness.

Can I add chocolate chips to the Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe?

Definitely! Adding chocolate chips will give these cookies an extra layer of flavor. Just fold them in along with the coconut and pecans.

How long does it take to make Coconut Pecan Cookies?

With prep time of about 15 minutes and bake time of around 10 minutes, you can whip these up in less than an hour!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful coconut pecan cookies as much as I do! They’re not only easy to prepare but also bring a wonderful cozy feeling that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or treating yourself, these cookies are sure to be a hit! Happy baking!