Name: Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies: A Chewy Sweet Treat Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 cup maraschino cherries (well-drained); 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened optional); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk

Have you ever opened your pantry and felt a pull towards something sweet and nostalgic? That’s exactly how I felt when I decided to bake Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies. This recipe effortlessly brings together the luscious flavors of sweet cherries and chewy coconut for a delightful twist on your classic cookie. They’re not only simple to whip up but also a sure crowd-pleaser—perfect for cookie exchanges or any festive gathering! As the cookies bake, your kitchen will fill with the warm, inviting aroma that makes it clear you’re about to create something special. Are you ready to discover how these delightful little treats can brighten your day?

Why Are Cherry Coconut Cookies So Irresistible?

Delightful textures: With their soft, chewy centers and crispy edges, each bite of Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies provides a satisfying crunch coupled with tender sweetness.
Sweet, fruity flavor: The vibrant cherry presence mixed with shredded coconut creates a deliciously distinctive flavor that is both comforting and nostalgic.
Easy to make: This recipe is simple enough for any home cook, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time.
Versatile variations: Feel free to customize! Swap cherries for cranberries or throw in some nuts for extra crunch—everyone’s taste is catered for.
Perfect for sharing: These cookies are great for any occasion, making them a delightful addition to cookie exchanges or festive gatherings. Your friends will be asking for seconds!

Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – This provides moisture and richness; using unsalted helps you control the saltiness.
Granulated Sugar – Adds essential sweetness, contributing to the cookie’s delightful texture.
Egg – Binds everything together and helps keep the cookie moist; use at room temperature for best results.
Vanilla Extract – A flavor enhancer that elevates all the other ingredients.
Flour – The main structural component; note that you can switch it for gluten-free flour if needed.
Maraschino Cherries – Infuse the cookies with a distinct cherry flavor; for a more tart option, fresh or frozen cherries work well—just ensure they are well-drained.
Shredded Coconut – Adds a chewy texture and subtle sweetness; unsweetened coconut can be used for a less sugary treat.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – The base for your sweet glaze that gives these cookies their charming pink finish.
Milk – Combines with powdered sugar to reach the perfect glaze consistency.

Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures a perfect baking environment for Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies. While your oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The texture should look pale and airy, indicating that you’ve incorporated enough air for a tender cookie.

Step 3: Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla
Next, add one room temperature egg and a splash of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Beat on low speed until everything is well combined, ensuring both ingredients are fully integrated. This step adds moisture and flavor to Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies, making them irresistibly delicious.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in the flour, mixing at low speed until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to retain the chewy texture of the dough. The mixture should start forming a soft dough without any visible flour remnants, indicating it’s ready for the next ingredient.

Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Coconut
Gently fold in the well-drained maraschino cherries and shredded coconut. Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to combine them evenly into the dough. The colorful cherries and snowy coconut should be distributed throughout, adding both flavor and delightful texture to your cookies.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, form cookie balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The cookies won’t spread much during baking, so position them close together for efficiency. This will ensure you create uniform-sized Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies that bake evenly.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Carefully slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when the edges turn light golden brown while the centers remain soft. This contrast will create the perfect chewyness you desire.

Step 8: Cool on a Wire Rack
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step will help set the cookies’ structure and allows you to prepare the delightful glaze.

Step 9: Make the Pink Glaze
In a small mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar with a splash of milk. Stir until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to achieve a delightful pink hue, perfect for drizzling over your warm cookies.

Step 10: Drizzle the Glaze
Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the pink glaze over each cookie using a spoon or a piping bag for more control. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. This finishing touch adds a sweet, beautiful shine to your Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prepping! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients until combined, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, while also maintaining that soft and chewy texture. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and place the chilled dough onto your prepared baking sheet and bake as directed. If you want to go even further, you can also freeze the formed cookie balls for up to 3 months—just pop them directly into the oven without thawing, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Enjoy the convenience of fresh cookies with minimal effort!

Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen! There are so many inspiring ways to adapt this recipe and make it your own.

Cranberry Twist: Substitute maraschino cherries with tart cranberries for a delightful zing. This will add a refreshing, fruity layer that’s perfect for those who love a bit of tartness.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to add a delightful crunch to each cookie. The warmth of rich nuts beautifully complements the sweetness of the cherries and coconut.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend. This option ensures everyone can partake in the cookie goodness without missing out.
Coconut Infusion: Use coconut extract instead of vanilla to enhance the coconut flavor. This will create a lovely, tropical aroma that resonates with each bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: Top with a drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate for an indulgent touch. Just imagine the divine pairing of chocolate and cherries—it’s a match made in dessert heaven!
Spicy Surprise: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the batter. This will introduce warm, spicy notes, making these cookies feel perfect for cozy gatherings and fall festivities.
Fruit Medley: Mix in a variety of dried fruits, such as apricots or raisins. This adds both texture and a burst of different fruity flavors that will keep everyone guessing.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra-rich delight, top each cookie with a dollop of cream cheese frosting instead of the glaze. This elevates them to a festive treat that is sure to impress.

If you’re ready for another tempting treat, why not try your hand at Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or perhaps whip up some sweet Cherry Chocolate Chip? Each recipe offers its own scrumptious surprises that are sure to delight your taste buds!

What to Serve with Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies

There’s nothing quite like the joy of pairing sweet treats with complementary delights to create a memorable gathering.

Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee enhances the sweetness of the cookies while adding a delightful bitterness that rounds out the flavors. The aroma alone will be enticing!
Milk: Classic tall glasses of cold, creamy milk are a nostalgic pairing, elevating the cookie-eating experience and offering a refreshing contrast to their sweet chewiness.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A rich chocolate sauce for drizzling takes dessert to another level. Its velvety texture beautifully contrasts the cherries and coconut in every bite.

Imagine delighting family and friends with an assortment of cookies presented alongside these pairings. The warm drinks and indulgent flavors create a cozy ambiance, perfect for sharing love and sweet memories.

Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream alongside for a delightful ice cream sandwich experience! The creaminess complements the cookie’s texture beautifully, creating a dessert lover’s dream.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens your dessert spread while balancing the sweetness of the cookies with natural tartness.
Sparkling Water with Citrus: For a refreshing, non-alcoholic option, effervescent sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime elevates the cookie enjoyment while cleansing the palate.

How to Store and Freeze Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; just ensure they’re well covered to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that freshly-baked taste!

Expert Tips for Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies

Avoid Over-Mixing: Be gentle when incorporating flour and other ingredients. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired chewy texture.
Drain Your Cherries: Ensure maraschino cherries are well-drained. Excess moisture can result in a soggy dough, altering the perfect consistency of Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies.
Room Temperature Egg: Using an egg at room temperature helps it blend more easily, promoting a uniform texture in your cookie dough.
Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft; this creates the perfect balance of chewiness.
Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to experiment! Add nuts or swap cherries with cranberries for a twist on Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing. This helps the glaze to set nicely, ensuring a beautiful finish.

Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies Recipe FAQs

What cherries should I use for Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies?
Absolutely! Maraschino cherries are a great choice for their sweetness and color, but you can opt for fresh or frozen cherries if you prefer a more tart flavor. Just be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your dough.

How long can I store Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies?
You can store these delicious cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them longer, they’ll hold their lovely texture in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they’re covered properly to stay fresh!

Can I freeze Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze, place your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for that warm, just-baked taste.

What should I do if the cookie dough is too wet?
If you find your cookie dough is too wet and sticky, it might need a little adjustment. Start by gradually adding in a bit of extra flour, about 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough becomes more manageable. Ensure that your cherries were well-drained, as excess moisture can affect the dough’s consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies?
For those with dietary concerns, these cookies do include common allergens such as dairy and eggs. If you’re looking to make them more inclusive, consider using dairy-free butter and flax eggs instead of the traditional egg. It’s a delightful way to adapt this treat for various dietary needs!

How can I tell if my Donda’s Cherry Coconut Cookies are done baking?
Great question! Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake for about 10-12 minutes. They’re perfectly done when the edges are light golden brown, while the centers remain soft. This will help you achieve that ideal chewy texture!