Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies: A Refreshing Delight

Welcome to a delightful dessert experience with our Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies. Hone your baking skills with this easy recipe that combines creamy coconut flavors and a burst of lemon. Perfectly paired with a smooth cheesecake frosting, these cookies are a hit for every occasion.

Recipe Overview

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American
• Cost: $$

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies are a fresh twist on traditional cookies. The zest of lemon adds a tangy dimension that complements the creamy notes of coconut. Whether you’re looking for a delicious snack during tea time or a dessert to impress your guests, these cookies are a perfect choice. With a soft, chewy center and a delightful cheesecake topping, these cookies strike the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Context/Background

This cookies recipe draws inspiration from classic lemon bars with an added tropical touch. The cheesecake icing is reminiscent of popular cream cheese desserts, bringing a luxurious feel to every bite. Perfected over time, this recipe combines the simplicity of cookie-making with sophisticated flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not properly softening butter, which can affect texture and mixing
• Overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough cookies
• Baking at too high temperatures, which can cause burning edges

Tips for Perfect Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies

• Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor impact
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies
• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before making the frosting
• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute lime zest for a unique twist
• Try using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor
• Omit the coconut for a simpler lemon cheesecake cookie

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a hot cup of tea or a chilled lemonade to enhance their refreshing flavors. They also make a great addition to dessert platters for parties and celebrations.

Storage and Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. For best results, re-crisp in a 300°F oven for a few minutes before serving.

Make Ahead Instructions

Prepare the dough in advance and freeze portioned scoops for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cook time.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 11g

Dietary Notes

• Vegetarian

The Recipe

Serves: 24

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 12 mins

Total Time: 32 mins

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, and lemon extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Fold in the coconut and white chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
7. Using a small scoop, drop cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to golden.
9. Prepare the cheesecake frosting by beating the cream cheese until smooth.
10. Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack before applying a generous dollop of cheesecake frosting on top.

Recipe Notes

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to aid in mixing
• Adjust lemon zest to taste for more or less citrus flavor

Community Tips and Photos

Share your experience with this recipe! Tag us using #lemoncoconutcheesecakecookies on social media.

Questions and Answers

• Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes, substitute with an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• What if I don’t have lemon extract? You can increase the lemon zest for a more natural lemon flavor.