If you’re craving a dessert that’s both indulgent and easy to make, Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies are the perfect solution. These cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with the sweetness of chocolate chips and coconut. The chewy coconut flakes paired with the crunch of pecans make for an irresistible texture, while the semi-sweet chocolate chips bring a touch of decadence. The use of sweetened condensed milk binds everything together, creating a moist, chewy bite that is hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a family gathering, or just need a quick treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, these cookies are perfect for when you want a delicious treat in a short amount of time.
- Chewy and Crunchy: The combination of coconut and pecans creates a perfect balance of chewy and crunchy textures in every bite.
- Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to substitute ingredients or add extra mix-ins (like dried cranberries or a drizzle of caramel) for a fun twist.
- No Need for Dough Chilling (But It Helps!): These cookies are great for when you need a treat in a hurry. Just scoop, shape, and bake! If you have the time, chilling the dough helps keep the cookies from spreading too much.
Ingredients
- 14 oz. bag sweetened coconut flakes
- 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Ice cream scooper or spoon
- Refrigerator (for chilling dough)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the sweetened coconut flakes, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and chopped pecans. Stir to combine. Then add in the sweetened condensed milk and mix until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Use an ice cream scooper or spoon to scoop out portions of dough. Shape the dough into small discs (about 2 tablespoons each). Pat the tops down flat to form the cookies. If the dough is sticking to your hands, rinse your hands frequently or keep a small bowl of water nearby to dampen your fingers. This helps prevent the dough from sticking.
Step 4: Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)
To prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, refrigerate the shaped dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking. This step is optional but highly recommended for more uniform cookies.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the coconut start turning golden brown. Keep a close eye on them in the last few minutes to avoid overbaking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving Suggestions: These cookies are perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Storage: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, store them in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place them in a sealed container or bag to prevent freezer burn.
Variations
- Add Dried Fruit: For a fruity twist, mix in dried cranberries, raisins, or dried cherries to add a touch of tartness.
- Use Other Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to use walnuts, almonds, or even cashews for a different flavor.
- Drizzle with Chocolate or Caramel: After baking, drizzle some melted dark chocolate or caramel over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness.
Helpful Notes
- Coconut Consistency: If you find that your coconut flakes are too large, you can give them a quick chop to make them more uniform. This will help the cookies hold together better.
- Sweetened vs. Unsweetened Coconut: This recipe calls for sweetened coconut flakes, which contribute to the cookie’s sweetness. If you prefer less sweetness, you can substitute with unsweetened coconut, but keep in mind that you may need to adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
- Chilling the Dough: If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the chilling step. However, if you have the time, it helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten (Barefoot Contessa): “I always chill my cookie dough before baking. It helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much.”
- Claire Saffitz (Dessert Person): “Don’t skip the parchment paper! It’s essential for getting that golden, crisp edge on your cookies and preventing them from sticking.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use unsweetened coconut flakes instead of sweetened?
A: Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut flakes, but you’ll need to increase the amount of sweetened condensed milk to ensure the cookies stay moist and sweet.
Q: Do I need to toast the coconut flakes before using them?
A: No, there’s no need to toast the coconut flakes for this recipe. The sweetened coconut will toast nicely in the oven while the cookies bake.
Q: Can I freeze the dough to bake later?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dough. After shaping it into discs, place the dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container and bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use a different kind of nut?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for the pecans if you prefer. Each nut will add a slightly different flavor and texture to the cookies.
Q: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
A: The cookies are ready when the coconut edges start turning golden brown. If the coconut starts to burn too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly and bake for a few more minutes.
Conclusion
Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves a combination of chewy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. These cookies are easy to make, filled with rich flavors, and are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your recipe box. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or save some for later – either way, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face.
