Description
These Lemon Coconut Cream Cheese Cookies combine tangy lemon and sweet coconut for a soft, chewy treat. Enhanced with cream cheese, they offer a delightful twist on classic cookies, perfect for any dessert table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, based on preference)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until well combined and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Fold in the softened cream cheese until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut and white chocolate chips (if using).
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness (optional).
- Arrange the cookies on a platter for serving. They are perfect for gatherings or enjoying with tea or coffee.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for later enjoyment.
Notes
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- For an extra burst of lemon flavor, consider adding a bit more lemon zest or juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes