Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies : Zesty Treat

If you’re dreaming of sunshine in a dessert, these Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies are your answer. With their soft, chewy texture, bursts of citrusy lemon, and creamy cheesecake center, these cookies are a delightful escape from the ordinary. Plus, the coconut adds just the right hint of tropical sweetness — making each bite taste like a warm summer day.

This recipe is inspired by the kind of cookies my grandmother used to make with tangy fillings and bright flavors, always served with a cold glass of lemonade on the porch. Now I bring that nostalgic joy to your kitchen with a modern twist: cheesecake-filled lemon coconut cookies!

Let’s bake something sunshine-worthy.

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🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright & Tangy Flavor: The lemon zest and juice add freshness.
• Cheesecake Center: A creamy surprise inside every cookie.
• Tropical Vibes: Shredded coconut brings summery sweetness.
• Perfect Texture: Soft, slightly chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth creamy.

🍪 Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut

Optional Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, cold
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

Optional Toppings:

• Additional shredded coconut for rolling
• Lemon glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice)
• White chocolate drizzle

⏱️ Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 12–14 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: ~24 cookies

🥣 Instructions

1. Make the Cheesecake Filling (Optional)

In a small bowl, beat the cold cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Scoop into small dollops using a mini cookie scoop or teaspoon and freeze for 20–30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, beat the butter and softened cream cheese until smooth. Add both sugars and beat until light and fluffy.

Add egg, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms.

Fold in shredded coconut.

3. Chill the Dough

Refrigerate dough for 30 minutes. This helps prevent excessive spreading and keeps the cookies thick.

4. Assemble the Cookies

Scoop a heaping tablespoon of dough. Flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a frozen cream cheese dollop in the center and fold the dough around it. Roll into a ball.

Optional: Roll in extra shredded coconut.

5. Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Place cookies 2 inches apart. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until edges are set but centers look slightly underdone.

Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

6. Optional Glaze

Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to drizzle over cooled cookies.

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🔢 Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)

• Calories: ~170
• Fat: 9g
• Carbs: 20g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 2g

Note: approximate values

💡 Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled just doesn’t have the same zing.
• Chill that dough: Especially with cream cheese inside — it’s key for structure.
• Shred your own coconut if you prefer less sweetness or want a more natural texture.
• Want it gooier? Add 1 tbsp honey to the dough for a slightly softer texture.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Serve with iced tea, lemonade, or coconut milk.
• Decorate with lemon zest or edible flowers for spring brunches.
• Freeze unbaked dough balls for fresh cookies on demand!

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❓ FAQ

Can I skip the cheesecake filling?

Yes! The cookies are still delicious without it, though the center won’t be as creamy.

How long do they keep?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze them?

Absolutely. Freeze dough balls or baked cookies. Thaw at room temp or warm briefly in the microwave.

Can I use coconut extract?

A few drops added to the dough will intensify the tropical flavor.

🌍 Inspired by Classic American Bakes

These cookies are an American-style treat with a sunny, inventive twist. The blend of familiar ingredients like cream cheese and coconut gives them a fresh personality — perfect for spring gatherings, summer parties, or when you simply want a dessert that makes you smile.

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