Description
Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies offer a bright and zesty citrus flavor combined with creamy cheesecake softness and a tropical coconut twist. These soft, moist cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, delivering a unique and irresistible treat with a delicious balance of tangy lemon and sweet coconut.
Ingredients
Units
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Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to build a vibrant, flavorful base.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, shredded coconut, and salt to ensure an even distribution of the leavening agent and coconut throughout the dough.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in batches, folding gently just until combined. Take care not to overmix to keep the cookies tender and soft.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling firms the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies maintain their shape when baked.
- Shape and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop portions of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent them from breaking apart and allows the cookies to set perfectly.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients: softened butter and cream cheese blend better for smooth dough.
- Don’t overmix the dough to maintain a tender cookie texture.
- Measure flour correctly by spooning into the measuring cup and leveling off.
- Chilling the dough prevents excessive spreading and ensures even baking.
- Remove cookies from oven when edges are set but centers appear soft for a chewy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg