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Chewy Coconut Lime Thumbprint Cookies

chewy coconut lime thumbprint cookies - featured image

These chewy coconut lime thumbprint cookies bring a burst of tropical sunshine with a perfect balance of tangy lime and sweet coconut, ideal for summer treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest from 2 limes (about 2 tbsp)
  • 1 cup (80g) shredded sweetened coconut
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • ½ cup (120ml) lime curd or marmalade (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lime zest, and fresh lime juice until combined.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough will be soft but not sticky.
  6. Gently fold in the shredded sweetened coconut, being careful not to overmix.
  7. Scoop dough by rounded tablespoons (about 1 tbsp or 15g) and roll into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the lined baking sheet.
  8. Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press an indentation in the center of each ball.
  9. Spoon about ½ tsp of lime curd or marmalade into each indentation.
  10. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers are still soft to the touch.
  11. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

If dough is too soft to handle, chill in the fridge for 15 minutes before shaping. Rotate baking sheet halfway through baking for even browning. Avoid overbaking to keep cookies chewy. Toast shredded coconut for extra flavor if desired. Fresh lime zest and juice are essential for best flavor. Press thumbprints gently to avoid cracking or overflow of filling.

Nutrition

Keywords: coconut lime cookies, thumbprint cookies, chewy cookies, tropical cookies, summer dessert, lime curd cookies