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 unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup shredded coconut; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the zesty flavor of Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies, a perfect treat for any occasion.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:03:49.622Z

These Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies combine the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the refreshing flavors of lemon and coconut, making every bite a delectable treat. Perfect for tea parties or as a sweet indulgence, these cookies will impress your guests and family alike.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor balanced with sweet coconut
Creamy cheesecake filling that delights your palate
Perfectly chewy texture with a crispy edge

      

A Flavorful Twist on Classic Cookies

Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies offer a delightful fusion of flavors that elevate the traditional cookie experience. The bright and zesty lemon pairs beautifully with the sweet and chewy coconut, creating a taste sensation that will leave your taste buds dancing. These cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavor, perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a cozy night in.

The creamy cheesecake filling adds a luxurious touch to these cookies, making each bite a decadent experience. The combination of tangy lemon and rich cream cheese creates a filling that bursts with flavor, contrasting wonderfully with the chewy cookie exterior. This recipe provides a unique twist to the standard cookie, ensuring that your baking game stands out.

Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies

To achieve the perfect Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies, start with room temperature ingredients. Softened butter and cream cheese blend more easily, resulting in a smoother dough and filling. This step is crucial for the creaminess of the cheesecake center and the overall texture of the cookies. Don't rush this process; allowing your ingredients to come to room temperature will greatly enhance the final product.

When assembling your cookies, make sure to encase the cheesecake filling completely within the dough. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking, ensuring that each cookie maintains its shape while delivering a delightful surprise in every bite. If you find the dough too sticky, chilling it for a short time can make it easier to work with.

Serving and Storing Your Cookies

Once your Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies are baked and cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed. These cookies can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack, or serve them at a dessert table for a fun and festive atmosphere.

For storage, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you wish to prolong their freshness, consider refrigerating them, especially due to the cream cheese filling. Just be sure to allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as this will bring back their delightful texture and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons lemon zest
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded coconut

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to get the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) until a soft dough forms.

Stir in the shredded coconut.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Assemble the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop a tablespoon of cookie dough, flatten it slightly, and add a small dollop of the cheesecake filling in the center. Encase the filling with the cookie dough, rolling it into a ball.

Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies!

Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients

Lemon is not just a flavor enhancer; it also offers numerous health benefits. Rich in vitamin C, lemons can boost your immune system and improve your skin health. The citrus fruit's natural acidity also aids in digestion, making it a beneficial addition to your diet. Incorporating lemon into your baking not only adds zest but also provides a nutritious component to your treats.

Coconut is another star ingredient in these cookies, providing healthy fats and dietary fiber. Shredded coconut adds chewiness and a rich texture, while also contributing to heart health. The medium-chain triglycerides found in coconut may aid in weight management and provide a quick source of energy. Enjoying these cookies allows you to indulge while benefiting from nature's goodness.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to experiment with this recipe, consider adding white chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness. The creamy chocolate complements the tangy lemon and rich coconut beautifully, creating a cookie that's even more decadent. Alternatively, you could incorporate nuts, such as macadamia or pecans, to add a delightful crunch and a different flavor dimension.

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the ingredients in your coconut to ensure it's gluten-free as well. This adaptation allows more people to enjoy these delicious cookies without compromising on flavor or texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use desiccated coconut instead of shredded?

Yes, desiccated coconut can be used, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! Freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to three months.

→ Can I substitute lemon with another flavor?

Yes, you can use lime or orange zest for a different flavor profile.