Have you ever wondered how a simple cookie can transport you to the sunny shores of the South? Dolly Parton Coconut Cookies with Lemon Glaze do just that, combining the tropical sweetness of coconut with the zesty brightness of lemon. According to a recent survey, over 70% of bakers are looking for recipes that not only taste great but also evoke nostalgia and warmth. This recipe embraces those sentiments, offering a delightful treat that pays homage to the beloved country music icon, Dolly Parton. Let’s dive into this deliciously sweet adventure!

Ingredients List

To create your own Dolly Parton Coconut Cookies with Lemon Glaze, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut: Adds a chewy texture and rich flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for your cookies.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps cookies rise.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Creates a rich, buttery flavor.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor.

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweet base for the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor.

Substitution Suggestions:

• Butter: Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Egg: Replace with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie texture.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined. This adds moisture and flavor to your cookies.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the cookies are baking, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 8: Glaze the Cookies

Once the cookies are out of the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cookies while they’re still warm for a beautiful finish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown per cookie (based on a yield of 24 cookies):

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	120
Total Fat	5g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	15mg
Sodium	50mg
Total Carbohydrates	18g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	9g
Protein	1g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Lower Sugar Option: Reduce the granulated sugar by 25% or use a sugar substitute like erythritol.
• Whole Grain Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Add-ins: Incorporate nuts or dried fruits for added texture and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Dolly Parton Coconut Cookies with Lemon Glaze are perfect for a variety of occasions:

• Tea Time Treat: Serve alongside a cup of herbal tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Dessert Platter: Pair with other cookies and sweets for a festive dessert table.
• Gift Idea: Package in a decorative box for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookies; they should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center.
• Not Cooling the Cookies: Allow cookies to cool before glazing; otherwise, the glaze may melt and not set properly.
• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Ensure butter is softened at room temperature for easy mixing.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

Conclusion

In just 27 minutes, you can whip up a batch of Dolly Parton Coconut Cookies with Lemon Glaze that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. These cookies are a perfect blend of tropical coconut and zesty lemon, making them a must-try treat. I invite you to try this recipe, share your experiences in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?

Yes, sweetened coconut can be used, but you may want to reduce the sugar in the cookie dough to balance the sweetness.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flaxseed egg for a vegan version.