Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies

Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies offer the perfect balance of tropical flavors in a soft, puffy cookie that's rolled in powdered sugar for that classic crinkle effect. The bright tanginess of key lime perfectly complements the sweet, nutty coconut in every bite, creating a dessert that feels like a mini vacation with each taste.

I've made these cookies at least a dozen times, and they never fail to transport me to a beachside paradise. Last time I brought them to a neighborhood potluck, three different people asked for the recipe before the evening was over!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates the perfect tender base for our cookies. Make sure it's at room temperature for proper creaming.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create those crisp edges while maintaining a soft center.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds structure. Room temperature works best for incorporating air.
• 1 tablespoon key lime zest: The essential flavor component that gives these cookies their bright citrus note. Fresh zest contains oils that dried versions simply can't match.
• 2 tablespoons key lime juice: Adds tanginess and moisture. Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
• 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract: Enhances the coconut flavor throughout the dough for that tropical essence.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Balances the citrus and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our cookies that provides structure. Measure by spooning into your measuring cup and leveling off.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Creates that signature puffy, soft texture that makes these cookies special.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut: Adds texture and coconut flavor throughout the cookie.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling): Creates that beautiful crinkle effect and adds a sweet outer layer.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Prepare your baking space - Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2:

Cream butter and sugar - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Don't rush this step! Proper creaming incorporates air into the dough, creating that perfect texture.

Step 3:

Add wet ingredients - Beat in the egg until fully incorporated. Add the key lime zest, key lime juice, coconut extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. The mixture might look slightly curdled due to the lime juice, but don't worry—it will come together when you add the dry ingredients.

Step 4:

Combine dry ingredients - In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 5:

Mix wet and dry - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.

Step 6:

Add coconut - Fold in the sweetened shredded coconut using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7:

Chill the dough - Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This firms up the butter and allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a better-tasting cookie that holds its shape during baking.

Step 8:

Shape the cookies - Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, roll the dough into 1½-inch balls. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar until completely coated.

Step 9:

Bake to perfection - Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. The cookies will have a beautiful crackled appearance with the powdered sugar.

Step 10:

Cool properly - Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period allows them to set up without overcooking.

Tropical Flavor Perfection

The key to these cookies is balancing the tangy lime with sweet coconut. The fresh key lime zest contains essential oils that provide an intense citrus flavor you simply can't get from juice alone. If key limes aren't available, regular limes make an excellent substitute—just adjust the amount slightly as regular limes tend to be less intensely flavored than their smaller key lime cousins.

Crinkle Cookie Secrets

The signature crackled appearance happens when the outside of the cookie sets quickly while the inside continues to spread during baking. The powdered sugar creates a beautiful contrast between the white exterior and the slightly visible cookie beneath the cracks. For the most dramatic crinkle effect, be generous when coating the dough balls in powdered sugar.

Perfect Summer Cookie

These cookies are ideal for warm-weather gatherings when you want something sweet that doesn't feel heavy. The brightness of the lime and the tropical notes of coconut make them particularly refreshing. They're perfect for picnics, beach days, or simply enjoying on the porch with a cold glass of iced tea.

I discovered by accident that letting the dough chill overnight produces an even more pronounced lime flavor. Now whenever possible, I make the dough a day ahead and enjoy even more vibrant cookies the next day!

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After making these countless times, I've found that a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before baking creates an amazing sweet-salty contrast that elevates these cookies to gourmet status. It's become my signature touch whenever I bring them to gatherings.

These Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies bring a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen. The contrast of tangy lime against sweet coconut, all wrapped up in a soft, chewy cookie dusted with powdered sugar, creates a treat that's impossible to resist. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just because it's Tuesday, these cookies are guaranteed to brighten anyone's day with their sunny flavors!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use regular lime instead of key lime?

Yes! Regular lime works great if you can't find key limes. The flavor will be slightly less intense, but still delicious.

→ What if I don't have coconut extract?

You can substitute vanilla extract, though you'll lose some coconut flavor. The shredded coconut will still provide coconut taste and texture.

→ Why did my cookies spread too much?

Make sure your butter is soft but not melted, and try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before scooping and rolling in powdered sugar.

→ Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?

Yes, but the cookies will be slightly less sweet. You might want to add an extra 2 tablespoons of sugar to compensate.

→ How do I store these cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.