Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with Pineapple Filling

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By Maria

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Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with Pineapple Filling

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Hello, and Welcome to a Tropical Treat!

If you’re craving something tropical and sweet, you’re in the right place! These Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with Pineapple Filling are like a mini-vacation in each bite, featuring a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with the sunny taste of pineapple nestled in each thumbprint. Perfectly rolled in shredded coconut for a delightful crunch, these cookies are the ultimate treat for coconut and pineapple lovers alike. Whether for a summer gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to brighten your day and satisfy your tropical dessert cravings.

Introduction to Tropical Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies

With origins that can be traced back to the classic thumbprint cookies of Scandinavian origin, Tropical Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies add a tropical twist. The unique feature of these cookies is the sweet pineapple filling combined with a coconut-coated base that makes them irresistibly chewy and flavorful. Perfect for adding a refreshing touch to your dessert table, these cookies are easy to make and a sure hit with fans of tropical flavors. Their balance of textures—soft, buttery dough against chewy coconut and gooey pineapple—makes them a must-try for anyone who loves a tropical escape in the form of dessert.

Ingredients for Tropical Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies

Here’s everything you need to make these delightful Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup sugar (granulated for a hint of sweetness)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra flavor depth)
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for rolling)
  • 1/2 cup pineapple jam or preserves (for filling; opt for a natural jam with visible pineapple chunks for the best taste)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
  • Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option, ensuring it’s suitable for baking.

How to Make Tropical Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies – Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This may take about 2–3 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract for a hint of flavor. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined to form a dough that’s soft but not sticky.

Step 3: Form and Roll

Take small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in shredded coconut to coat them generously, adding a delightful crunch and flavor to the cookies.

Step 4: Create the Thumbprints

Place the coconut-coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb (or the back of a spoon) to press a gentle indentation in the center of each cookie, creating a well for the filling.

Step 5: Add the Pineapple Filling

Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of pineapple jam. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam may spill out while baking.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The coconut will become toasty, adding extra flavor. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies

  • Use Fresh Coconut: For an enhanced flavor, you can toast the coconut slightly before rolling the dough balls.
  • Jam Alternatives: If pineapple isn’t your favorite, try other tropical fillings like mango or passionfruit jam.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent the cookies from becoming tough.

Cooking Tips for the Best Tropical Thumbprint Cookies

  1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter soften at room temperature to ensure a smooth, creamy dough.
  2. Chill the Dough: For a more defined thumbprint shape, chill the dough balls briefly before baking.
  3. High-Quality Jam: Opt for a high-quality pineapple jam with visible fruit pieces to elevate the flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Tropical Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of refreshing beverages. Serve with an iced pineapple or coconut cocktail for a summery feel, or opt for a warm chai tea if you’re enjoying these in cooler months. They’re perfect as part of a dessert tray, adding a pop of color and flavor with their tropical charm.

Nutritional Information for Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies

Enjoying these cookies offers a tasty treat with a touch of tropical fruit goodness. While indulging is encouraged, note that each cookie offers a balance of fats and carbs, with the sweet-tart pineapple bringing a fruity burst.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Vitamin C: from pineapple filling

Storage and Leftovers for Tropical Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to store them for longer, place them in the fridge, where they’ll last for up to a week. You can also freeze these cookies for up to 3 months—just thaw them at room temperature before serving. For the best flavor, reheat frozen cookies slightly in the oven to refresh the coconut coating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Tropical Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies

Q1: Can I use different jams for the filling?
Yes, feel free to use mango, passionfruit, or even guava jam for a twist on the tropical flavor.

Q2: How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough balls before baking, or try adding a bit more flour to the dough to help it hold shape.

Q3: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for similar results.

Q4: What other toppings work well with these cookies?
Try sprinkling a hint of sea salt on top or adding a drizzle of white chocolate for added sweetness.

Related Recipes for Tropical Cookie Lovers

  1. S’mores Cupcakes: Decadent Marshmallow Surprise Treat

  2. Gingerbread Cupcakes with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting

Conclusion

These Tropical Coconut Pineapple Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful way to add a taste of paradise to your baking routine. Whether you’re an avid coconut lover or simply want to try something new, these cookies offer a perfect balance of buttery richness, tropical sweetness, and coconut crunch. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a mini tropical escape in every bite! Let us know how yours turn out and share your own tropical twists—happy baking!

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Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with Pineapple Filling

Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with Pineapple Filling


Description

Hello, and Welcome to a Tropical Treat!

If you’re craving something tropical and sweet, you’re in the right place! These Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with Pineapple Filling are like a mini-vacation in each bite, featuring a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with the sunny taste of pineapple nestled in each thumbprint. Perfectly rolled in shredded coconut for a delightful crunch, these cookies are the ultimate treat for coconut and pineapple lovers alike. Whether for a summer gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to brighten your day and satisfy your tropical dessert cravings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup sugar (granulated for a hint of sweetness)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra flavor depth)
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for rolling)
  • 1/2 cup pineapple jam or preserves (for filling; opt for a natural jam with visible pineapple chunks for the best taste)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
  • Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option, ensuring it’s suitable for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This may take about 2–3 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract for a hint of flavor. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined to form a dough that’s soft but not sticky.

Step 3: Form and Roll

Take small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in shredded coconut to coat them generously, adding a delightful crunch and flavor to the cookies.

Step 4: Create the Thumbprints

Place the coconut-coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb (or the back of a spoon) to press a gentle indentation in the center of each cookie, creating a well for the filling.

Step 5: Add the Pineapple Filling

Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of pineapple jam. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam may spill out while baking.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The coconut will become toasty, adding extra flavor. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Coconut: For an enhanced flavor, you can toast the coconut slightly before rolling the dough balls.
  • Jam Alternatives: If pineapple isn’t your favorite, try other tropical fillings like mango or passionfruit jam.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent the cookies from becoming tough.

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