Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to make Nana’s Coconut Chewies! Follow these simple steps for a batch of chewy, golden coconut treats that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the coconut chewies bake evenly, giving them that perfect golden brown hue.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier. You can also lightly grease the sheet if you prefer.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside. These dry ingredients will help provide structure to the chewies while keeping them soft and chewy.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes. The more you cream the butter and sugar, the fluffier your cookies will be.
Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for an added depth of flavor.
Step 6: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. You want to keep the dough soft and pliable.
Step 7: Add the Coconut and Sweetened Condensed Milk
Next, fold in the shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk. The condensed milk will provide the chewy texture and a bit of moisture to keep the cookies soft. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 8: Scoop and Shape the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you like, you can slightly flatten each ball with the back of a spoon for a more uniform shape.
Step 9: Bake the Coconut Chewies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers should still appear soft and slightly undercooked—this is key to achieving the perfect chewy texture.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Allow the coconut chewies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them set and become even chewier. Serve them fresh or store them for later!
Serving and Storage
These coconut chewies are perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual family get-togethers to more formal celebrations. They are great as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee or as a dessert after a big meal.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra special touch, serve these coconut chewies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like strawberries or a tropical fruit salad. For a more festive look, dust them with powdered sugar or add a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (though they’re unlikely to last long!), store the coconut chewies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Simply layer them between pieces of parchment paper in an airtight container, and they’ll last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To thaw, leave them at room temperature for a few hours, or microwave them for 10-15 seconds for that just-baked feel!
Tips
For the best coconut chewies, consider these expert tips:
- Use sweetened coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut gives the cookies their perfect chewy texture. Avoid using unsweetened coconut unless you want a less sweet treat.
- Don’t overbake: The key to a chewy texture is to take the cookies out while the centers are still soft. They’ll continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
- Experiment with flavorings: If you love a little extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced twist