If you’re searching for a cookie that will instantly transport you to a sunny paradise with every bite, look no further than these irresistible Coconut Lime Cookies. Each soft, chewy cookie bursts with zesty lime and sweet coconut, crowned with a vibrant lime glaze for a refreshing twist that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re baking for a summer picnic, a midday pick-me-up, or any moment that needs a little brightness, this recipe is sure to become your go-to treat for all things citrusy and tropical.

Coconut Lime Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about these Coconut Lime Cookies is just how simple yet impactful the ingredients are. Every element has a purpose, coming together to create that perfect blend of sweet, tart, and chewy. Here’s how each ingredient contributes to making these cookies truly unforgettable:

Unsalted butter, softened: The creamy, rich base that keeps the cookies tender and adds that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and ensures the cookies are perfectly golden and slightly crisp on the edges.
Large egg: Binds the dough and adds structure for a chewy, satisfying bite.
Lime zest (from 1–2 limes): Packs in that zingy citrus aroma and flavor, creating a bright punch that sings through every crumb.
Fresh lime juice: Elevates the tanginess and adds moisture for those signature soft cookies.
All-purpose flour: The foundation holding everything together, giving you sturdy yet soft cookies.
Baking soda: Helps the cookies puff up and spread just the right amount; don’t skip it!
Salt: A little dash to balance the sweetness and bring out all the vibrant flavors.
Sweetened shredded coconut: Adds tropical sweetness, chewy texture, and those lovely little flecks throughout the cookie.
Powdered sugar (for the glaze): Creates a lush, sweet glaze that doubles down on the cookie’s citrusy vibes.
Lime juice and zest (for the glaze): Brings the glaze to life with more tart, fresh flavor and a pop of color.

How to Make Coconut Lime Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, while also helping them bake evenly all the way through.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light, fluffy, and pale in color. This crucial step gives your Coconut Lime Cookies that perfect, pillowy crumb. Take your time and really whip them together—you’ll thank yourself later!

Step 3: Add Egg, Lime Zest, and Juice

Beat in the egg, lime zest, and fresh lime juice. The zest infuses the dough with bright citrus oils, while the juice punches up the tanginess. Your kitchen will instantly fill with a tropical aroma that’s utterly mouthwatering!

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients apart ensures your leavening agent is distributed perfectly, giving your cookies that signature soft-chewy texture without surprises.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. This keeps the dough tender. Finally, gently fold in the sweetened shredded coconut—don’t overmix! You’ll have a dough studded with coconut and flecks of green zest.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and arrange them on your parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each for spreading. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Resist the urge to overbake; you want those soft, chewy centers!

Step 7: Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Cooling is not just for patience’s sake—it sets the texture and ensures the glaze won’t melt right off.

Step 8: Glaze and Garnish

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lime juice, and zest until smooth. Drizzle generously over the cooled cookies. For extra pizazz, sprinkle with more lime zest or top with a teeny lime wedge. Now your Coconut Lime Cookies are ready for their grand reveal!

How to Serve Coconut Lime Cookies

Garnishes

The beauty of Coconut Lime Cookies is their playful, tropical look. Elevate each cookie by garnishing with a sprinkle of extra lime zest or press a tiny wedge of lime on top of the glaze. For a hint of crunch and a burst of flavor, you can even dust over a touch of toasted coconut.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cup of hot herbal tea, a glass of cold milk, or—if you’re embracing the island theme—a frosty coconut mojito. They also complement a fresh fruit salad or a creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream for a light, dreamy dessert pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack Coconut Lime Cookies in a tall jar tied with a bright ribbon for gift-giving, or arrange them on a platter scattered with lime wedges and coconut flakes at your next summer gathering. For a playful touch, plate them on palm leaves or serve at a picnic alongside tropical drinks and colorful napkins.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Coconut Lime Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay delightfully soft for up to 4 days. Tuck a slice of bread in the container to help maintain their chewy texture—that old trick really works!

Freezing

To freeze, let the baked cookies cool completely, then layer them between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months. You can also freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for fresh cookies on demand; just bake straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.

Reheating

If your Coconut Lime Cookies have been chilled or frozen, let them come to room temperature, or pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–5 minutes to gently revive their chewiness. Add glaze after reheating if you want a fresh, glossy finish.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

For the brightest, most authentic flavor, fresh lime juice is the way to go—but if you’re in a pinch, bottled will work. Just keep in mind that fresh zest is non-negotiable for that real citrus punch!

Are these cookies very sweet?

Coconut Lime Cookies hit the perfect balance—they’re sweet, but the tangy glaze and citrusy undertones keep them from ever feeling cloying. If you prefer things a bit less sweet, simply use a thinner layer of glaze or leave it off entirely.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The cookies turn out just as soft and flavorful, so everyone can enjoy a taste of the tropics.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Be sure not to overbake; pull them from the oven when the edges are just golden, even if the centers look slightly underdone. Cooling on a rack sets them up nicely, and storing with a slice of bread keeps them extra chewy.

Can I add white chocolate chips or nuts?

Go for it! White chocolate chips add a creamy sweetness that pairs perfectly with lime, while macadamia or chopped pecans give you extra crunch and an even more tropical bite. Mix things up and make the Coconut Lime Cookies your own.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s sunshine in edible form, these Coconut Lime Cookies are the answer. Their tropical flavors, chewy texture, and zippy glaze make them impossible to stop at just one. I hope you’ll whip up a batch soon, share with friends (or not!), and let a little island magic brighten your day.

Coconut Lime Cookies Recipe