Name: Chewy Coconut Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup oat flour (or all-purpose flour); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/4 cup milk of choice; 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Soft, chewy, and loaded with rich coconut flavor, these coconut cookies are a delightful treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Naturally vegan and easily made gluten-free, they are perfect for coconut lovers. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut

1/2 cup oat flour (or all-purpose flour)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

1/4 cup milk of choice

1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, stir together the shredded coconut, flour, salt, baking soda, and coconut sugar.

Add the melted coconut oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Gently flatten each cookie with your hand or a spoon.

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet—they will firm up as they cool.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 14 cookies

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

I’ve found there are so many ways to customize these coconut cookies! Here are some variations I love to try:

Add chocolate chips – For a little extra sweetness, I sometimes fold in a handful of dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate.

Make them extra coconutty – If I want even more coconut flavor, I add a little coconut extract or sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before baking.

Spice it up – I’ve added a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy, spiced flavor.

Add nuts – I like to mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and texture.

Storage/Reheating

These chewy coconut cookies stay fresh for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If I need to store them for a longer period, I freeze them. To do this, I place the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I let them thaw at room temperature, or I warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, I simply swap the oat flour with a gluten-free flour blend or just stick to oat flour if it’s certified gluten-free. The texture and flavor will still be amazing!

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes! While I love using coconut sugar for its rich, caramel-like flavor, I’ve also used brown sugar or even maple sugar with great results. Just keep in mind that different sugars may slightly change the texture or taste of the cookies.

Can I make these cookies oil-free?

If I want to make the cookies oil-free, I replace the coconut oil with unsweetened applesauce. It still gives the cookies moisture, though the texture might be a little softer.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The edges of the cookies should be lightly golden brown when they’re ready. Since the cookies firm up as they cool, I let them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! If I need more cookies for a larger crowd, I just double the ingredients and follow the same baking instructions. Just make sure to give yourself extra time for the prep and baking.

Conclusion

These chewy coconut cookies are a fantastic treat that’s easy to make and perfect for anyone who loves coconut. Whether I’m craving a sweet snack or need to bake a batch for a party, these cookies always satisfy. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, I’m able to enjoy a delicious, vegan, and potentially gluten-free dessert in no time!

Recipe: