These Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies are a tropical treat! With zesty lime and sweet coconut, they are soft, chewy, and totally delicious. The crinkle on top makes them look extra fun!
I love baking these cookies because they brighten up any day! Plus, the smell of lime and coconut wafting through the kitchen? Pure bliss. You can almost hear the beach calling! 🏖️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose Flour: This is your base for the cookies. If you want a gluten-free option, you can try almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary a bit.
Shredded Unsweetened Coconut: I love using unsweetened coconut for a pure coconut flavor. In a pinch, sweetened coconut will work too, but it will make the cookies sweeter. You could also use finely chopped nuts for a different texture and flavor.
Key Lime Juice and Zest: Key lime juice adds a tangy flavor. If you can’t find key limes, regular lime juice works great too. The zest brightens the cookies, so if you skip it, the lime flavor will be milder.
Butter: Unsalted butter is essential here for control over the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a plant-based butter can substitute well in this recipe.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crinkled Cookies?
Creating those beautiful crinkles is all about the dough and baking time. After mixing your dough, chilling it is key. It helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes will make rolling easier.
- When rolling in powdered sugar, don’t be shy! Coat each ball well for a lovely finish.
- Watch your cookies in the oven; they should be set at the edges but soft in the middle for that perfect crinkle look when cooled.
How to Make Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp key lime juice
- Zest of 1 key lime
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Rolling:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes for preparation and about 10-12 minutes for baking. Plus, you’ll chill the dough for about 30 minutes, bringing the total time to around 1 hour. Quick and delightful cookies are just around the corner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of shredded coconut, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture will help form the structure of the cookies. Set this bowl aside for now.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer or a whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy. This could take about 2-3 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it’s important for fluffy cookies!
4. Add in the Wet Ingredients:
Beat in 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of key lime juice, the zest of 1 key lime, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This will add delicious flavor to your cookies!
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; don’t overmix or your cookies might be tough. The dough will be soft and a bit sticky, which is just what we want!
6. Chill the Dough:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it much easier to handle when you roll it into balls.
7. Shape the Cookies:
Once your dough is chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls with your hands. Each ball should be about the size of a golf ball.
8. Coat with Powdered Sugar:
Roll each ball generously in 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until they are coated all over. This gives them a nice crinkle effect once baked!
9. Bake the Cookies:
Place the rolled balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until you see the edges set and the tops look slightly cracked. They should still be soft to the touch.
10. Cool and Enjoy:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delightful Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Can I Use Fresh Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Absolutely! If you can’t find key limes, regular limes will work just fine. The flavor may be slightly tangier, but it will still be delicious. Just make sure to use the same amount of juice and zest as specified in the recipe.
How Should I Store These Cookies?
Store your Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed container or bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw before enjoying!
Can I Substitute the Butter with Coconut Oil?
Yes, you can substitute coconut oil for butter! Just make sure it’s in a solid state (not melted) for the best consistency. The cookies will have an extra coconut flavor which pairs wonderfully with the key lime!
What If My Dough Is Too Sticky to Roll?
If your dough feels too sticky after chilling, you can lightly dust your hands with flour before rolling the dough balls. Alternatively, chill the dough for a bit longer, or you can place it in the freezer for about 10 minutes to firm up further.
