Tropical Coconut Delight Shortbread Cookies
Inspired by a cherished recipe from a vintage Sunset Desserts Cookbook, these Tropical Coconut Delight Shortbread Cookies bring together the rich, buttery notes reminiscent of a classic wedding cookie and the exotic flair of coconut. Ideal as a make-ahead treat, these cookies improve their flavor over time, making them perfect for holidays, special events, or as a thoughtful gift in care packages. The dough can be refrigerated or frozen, allowing you to break up the preparation over several days. Incorporating ingredients such as macadamia nuts or citrus zest could further elevate this nostalgic dessert into a new personal favorite, offering a taste of the tropics without leaving your kitchen. Junior chefs in the family will adore rolling these cookies in powdered sugar, making them just as fun to prepare as they are to enjoy.
36
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
1 cup (softened)
Granulated Sugar
1/4 cup (none)
Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon (none)
All-Purpose Flour
2 cups (sifted)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Sweetened Flaked Coconut
2 cups (none)
Powdered Sugar
1 cup (sifted)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth and pliable.
2
Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the butter, then continue creaming until the mixture is smooth and slightly fluffy.
3
Sift the all-purpose flour and measure out two cups. Combine the flour with the salt, then sift again to ensure the mixture is smooth and aerated.
4
Gradually incorporate the sifted flour into the creamed butter mixture, stirring until the dough reaches a smooth consistency.
5
Fold in the sweetened flaked coconut, distributing evenly throughout the dough.
6
Form the dough into a roll approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm for 2-4 hours, or up to several days if needed. The dough can also be frozen for extended storage.
7
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
8
Slice the chilled dough into 1/4 inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid over-baking to prevent the entire tops from browning.
10
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes until they set. Carefully remove them using a spatula.
11
Place the cookies onto a surface dusted with sifted powdered sugar, such as a sheet of wax paper. Generously coat all sides of each cookie with the sugar. Once cool, add another layer of powdered sugar if desired.
12
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tropical Coconut Delight Shortbread Cookies?
These are rich, buttery cookies inspired by a vintage Sunset Desserts Cookbook that combine the classic wedding cookie texture with exotic coconut flair.
What inspired this recipe?
The recipe was inspired by a cherished entry in a vintage Sunset Desserts Cookbook.
How many cookies does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 36 cookies.
What are the primary flavor notes of these cookies?
The cookies feature rich, buttery notes and the exotic taste of coconut.
Are these cookies similar to wedding cookies?
Yes, they are reminiscent of classic buttery wedding cookies.
Can I make these cookies in advance?
Absolutely, these cookies are ideal as a make-ahead treat as the flavors improve over time.
How long should the dough be refrigerated?
The dough should be refrigerated for 2 to 4 hours, or up to several days.
Can the cookie dough be frozen?
Yes, the dough can be frozen for extended storage.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
How long do the cookies need to bake?
Bake them for approximately 20 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
How thick should I slice the dough?
Slice the chilled dough into 1/4 inch thick rounds.
What are the essential ingredients for this recipe?
You will need butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, salt, sweetened flaked coconut, and powdered sugar.
Is sifting the flour necessary?
Yes, sifting the flour and salt together ensures the mixture is smooth and aerated.
What kind of coconut should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of sweetened flaked coconut.
How do I finish the cookies with powdered sugar?
Dust a surface with powdered sugar and generously coat all sides of each cookie while they are still slightly warm.
Can I add extra ingredients to customize the flavor?
Yes, you can add macadamia nuts or citrus zest to create a personal variation.
Are these cookies suitable for kids to help with?
Yes, junior chefs will enjoy the fun task of rolling the cookies in powdered sugar.
How should I store these cookies?
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are ready when the edges are lightly golden; avoid browning the tops.
Should I use parchment paper on the baking sheet?
You can use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking sheet.
What is the recommended size for the dough roll?
Form the dough into a roll approximately 1.5 inches in diameter.
How far apart should I place the cookies on the tray?
Space the cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Should the butter be cold or softened?
The butter should be softened until it is smooth and pliable.
Can I add a second layer of powdered sugar?
Yes, once the cookies are completely cool, you can add another layer of sugar if desired.
How much salt is included in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
How much granulated sugar is used in the dough?
The dough uses 1/4 cup of granulated sugar.
What type of flour is recommended?
The recipe specifies 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour.
How long should the cookies cool on the sheet?
Let them set on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before moving them.
Is vanilla extract required?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
What makes these cookies 'Tropical'?
The inclusion of flaked coconut and the potential for macadamia nuts gives them a tropical profile.