Coconut lemon drop cookies are a delightful treat that combine the tropical flavor of coconut with the zingy essence of fresh lemon. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual tea parties. If you're looking for an easy yet impressive cookie recipe, this is it!
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**Ingredients:**
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup desiccated coconut (shredded)
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**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
#### Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Space
Ensure your workspace is clean and organized. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
#### Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process takes about three minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
#### Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract
Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix well to ensure everything is fully combined.
#### Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. Gradually mix this dry ingredient mixture into the creamed butter mixture until just blended. Be careful not to overmix.
#### Step 5: Fold in Coconut
Stir in the desiccated coconut by hand or with a spatula. The dough should be soft but manageable. If it's too sticky, chill it for about 20 minutes before proceeding.
#### Step 6: Shape and Bake Cookies
Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie as they will spread slightly during baking. Use your thumb to gently press down on the tops of the cookies to create a slight depression for better cooking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, these coconut lemon drop cookies make for perfect snacking. They can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to five days, or enjoy them right away!
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**Tips for Best Results:**
- Use high-quality ingredients like real coconut flakes and fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Chill the cookie dough if you prefer smaller, thicker cookies instead of larger, thinner ones.
By following these steps, you can create delicious coconut lemon drop cookies that are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Happy baking!
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