Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies

Name: Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the bright and zesty flavors of Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies. These delightful treats combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with a refreshing lemon twist and a touch of coconut.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:11:00.567Z

These Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of flavors. The tangy lemon paired with sweet coconut creates a refreshing bite that will leave everyone wanting more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor balanced with creamy cheesecake
Coconut adds a tropical twist that elevates each bite
Perfectly soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth
Great for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a solo treat

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the tartness of fresh lemon with the creamy richness of cheesecake. This unique recipe allows each bite to burst with vibrancy, making them perfect for those who crave a refreshing treat. The addition of lemon juice and zest not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful aroma that fills your kitchen while baking.

The shredded coconut introduces a tropical element that complements the citrus notes beautifully. It adds a chewiness that contrasts perfectly with the soft and tender cookie base. Each cookie is a delightful surprise, offering a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will keep you reaching for just one more.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies turn out perfectly, it's essential to use room temperature ingredients. Softened butter and cream cheese blend more easily, creating a smoother batter that bakes evenly. This small step can make a significant difference in the final texture of your cookies, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth experience you desire.

Additionally, be mindful of your baking time. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the cookies as they approach the 12-minute mark. You want the edges to be lightly golden while the centers remain soft. Allowing them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack will help maintain their shape and texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home. They can be served as a delightful dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack with your afternoon tea or coffee. Their vibrant flavor makes them a favorite at potlucks and gatherings, sure to impress your guests.

For an elegant touch, consider drizzling a simple lemon glaze over the cooled cookies. A mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice can elevate their presentation while adding an extra layer of sweetness. You can also pair them with fresh fruit like berries or a scoop of coconut ice cream for a refreshing dessert that’s sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 large egg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix well and adjust sweetness to your taste.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Cream Cheese and Egg

Add the cream cheese and beat until combined, then mix in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Scoop and Bake

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies!

Storage Tips

To keep your Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to a week, making them ideal for meal prep or baking in advance. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for about an hour or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, you can have a sweet treat ready whenever the craving strikes!

Variations to Try

While the original Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies are delightful as they are, feel free to get creative with your ingredients. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped macadamia nuts or almonds to the dough. This will add a satisfying crunch that complements the soft texture of the cookies.

You can also experiment with different citrus flavors. Substitute lime juice and zest for the lemon to create Lime Coconut Cheesecake Cookies, or try orange for a sweet and tangy variation. Each version will bring its own unique flair to this versatile recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened coconut flakes?

Yes, unsweetened coconut flakes work just fine and will still provide a great coconut flavor.

→ How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.