There’s something delightfully nostalgic about the light crunch and buttery flavor of Coconut Thins that instantly transports me to sun-kissed beaches, where the scent of tropical coconuts fills the air. It was during a lazy afternoon of baking with friends that I discovered just how incredibly easy it is to whip up these little delights. A quick search through my pantry revealed a handful of simple ingredients that combined blissfully to create a treat that’s both elegant and satisfying.
Perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet little surprise tucked into lunchboxes, these Coconut Thins bring a burst of cheerful flavor with every bite. You won’t believe how swiftly they come together—just 25 minutes from pantry to plate! With their lacy edges and crisp texture, these cookies are a stunning choice for entertaining or simply indulging after a long day. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and turn your kitchen into a tropical haven!
Why will you love these Coconut Thins?
Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delightful treat ready in no time.
Buttery Crunch: Each bite offers a perfect balance of buttery goodness and crispy texture, making them dangerously addictive.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for afternoon tea, lunchbox surprises, or a sweet snack at home, these cookies fit any occasion seamlessly.
Tropical Flavor: The light hint of coconut paired with lemon juice brings a refreshing twist that’s sure to brighten your day.
Crowd-Pleasing: These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends or family—a sure way to impress at gatherings!
For more delightful baking ideas, be sure to check out our easy cookies collection, which is full of homestyle treats you won’t want to miss!
Coconut Thins Ingredients
For the Batter
• Butter – ¼ cup (55 g), provides a rich and creamy base for your Coconut Thins.
• Demerara / Light Brown Sugar – ⅓ cup (55 g), adds a caramel-like sweetness that complements the coconut flavor.
• Golden or Corn Syrup – 2 ½ tablespoons, enhances moisture and gives the cookies a lovely chew.
• Plain Flour (AP) – 6 ½ tablespoons, helps bind the ingredients together for that perfect crispy texture.
• Lemon Juice – ½ tsp, lends a subtle brightness that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Shredded Coconut – 2 tablespoons, for a satisfying texture and tropical flair in every bite.
Optional Topping
• Additional Shredded Coconut – A sprinkle over the finished cookies adds an extra coconut kick and enhances their presentation.
These Coconut Thins are not only simple to make but are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet cravings!
How to Make Coconut Thins
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) or Gas mark 4. While that’s warming up, line two baking trays with baking parchment to prevent sticking.
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Combine Ingredients: In a small, heavy-based pan, add the butter, demerara sugar, and golden syrup. This mixture will create a rich, buttery base for your Coconut Thins!
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Melt & Dissolve: Heat the mixture gently over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Be cautious—avoid boiling the mixture!
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Cool & Mix: Once your mixture has cooled slightly (about 2-3 minutes), sift in the plain flour. Add the lemon juice, then stir everything together until well-combined—a lovely dough is forming!
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Drop onto Trays: Using a spoon, drop teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking trays, spacing each drop about 10 cm (4 inches) apart to allow for spreading. Don’t forget to sprinkle a small amount of shredded coconut on top of each drop!
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Bake: Place the trays in your preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are done when they spread out nicely, look lacy, and turn a lovely dark golden color.
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Cool & Serve: As soon as they’re out of the oven, sprinkle a bit more shredded coconut over the warm cookies. Let them cool on the tray until firm, then transfer to a cooling rack to crisp up completely.
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Store: Once cooled, store your Coconut Thins in an airtight container. They’ll be delightfully brittle and ready to be enjoyed whenever your sweet tooth strikes!
Optional: Enjoy them with a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Coconut Thins?
Transform your cookie experience into a delightful gathering with these perfect pairings!
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries and blueberries adds a burst of juicy freshness that contrasts beautifully with the crispy thins.
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Coconut Cream Dip: Whip up a silky coconut cream dip for a decadent twist. This enhances the tropical flavor while adding a delightful creaminess.
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Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a perfect afternoon pause.
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Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess pairs exquisitely with the crunchy texture of the thins, creating a textural marvel.
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Grilled Pineapple: Drizzled with honey, grilled pineapple adds a juicy, caramelized element that echoes the coconut flavors beautifully; a sweet celebration on your plate!
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Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce offers a luxurious touch. Pairing chocolate with coconut is a classic matchup that never disappoints.
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Coconut Milkshake: Blend creamy coconut milk with ice cream for a refreshing shake. This tropical treat makes for a fun dessert that echoes your cookies.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad, perhaps with a hint of lime, provides a zesty contrast, balancing the rich sweetness of Coconut Thins.
Indulge in these pairings to create a scrumptious experience that will delight your senses!
Make Ahead Options
These Coconut Thins are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the butter, sugar, and syrup and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, allow the mixture to come to room temperature before sifting in the flour and adding the lemon juice. For the best quality, bake the cookies fresh—while they can be kept for up to 3 days in an airtight container, they are truly at their crispest within the first day. Enjoy these delightful treats whenever you need a quick sweet bite!
Coconut Thins Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful variations and make this recipe your own!
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Nutty Delight: Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch and flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled Coconut Thins to create an indulgent chocolate-coffee combination.
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Citrus Twist: Replace lemon juice with lime juice or add zest for a zesty flavor that brightens each cookie.
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Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, cozy aroma that evokes nostalgia.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a delicious dairy-free variation without losing that rich taste.
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Sweet and Salty: Sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top right before baking to enhance sweetness with a salty contrast.
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Tropical Fusion: Swap shredded coconut with finely chopped dried pineapple or mango for a fruity, tropical experience in every bite.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Be amazed by the taste!
How to Store and Freeze Coconut Thins
Room Temperature: Store your Coconut Thins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful crispness.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Just ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Coconut Thins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop the frozen cookies in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-10 minutes until crispy again.
Expert Tips for Coconut Thins
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Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier melting and a smoother mixture, helping your Coconut Thins to be perfectly creamy.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye while baking; over-baking can lead to hard cookies instead of the desired crispiness. Look for that golden hue!
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Chill the Dough: If your mixture appears too runny, chill it in the refrigerator for a brief moment. This will help your Coconut Thins hold their shape while baking.
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Don’t Skimp on Coconut: A generous sprinkle of coconut before baking not only enhances flavor but also gives your cookies an appealing texture and presentation.
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Storage Matters: Ensure the cookies are completely cool before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their brittle texture. Enjoy your Coconut Thins at their best!
Coconut Thins Recipe FAQs
What type of coconut should I use for the recipe?
I recommend using unsweetened shredded coconut to keep the balance of flavors just right. Sweetened coconut can make the Coconut Thins too sugary, while unsweetened adds that delightful tropical flavor without overpowering sweetness.
How should I store Coconut Thins after baking?
Absolutely, to keep your Coconut Thins crisp, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week but ensure they’re well-sealed to prevent moisture from making them soggy.
Can I freeze Coconut Thins? How?
Yes, freezing is a great option to extend their shelf life! To freeze, first place the Coconut Thins in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes until they’re crisp again.
What should I do if my Coconut Thins don’t spread out while baking?
Sometimes the mixture can be too thick, which prevents the cookies from spreading properly. If you notice this, try gently incorporating a teaspoon of warm water into the mixture before dropping them on the tray. Alternatively, ensure your oven is preheated adequately as a hot oven helps them spread evenly.
Are Coconut Thins safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these Coconut Thins away from pets. Ingredients like butter and sugar aren’t healthy for them and could lead to gastrointestinal upset. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly treat, consider making a plain oat-based cookie with peanut butter instead!
Can I add other flavors to my Coconut Thins?
Very! Feel free to customize your Coconut Thins by adding a touch of vanilla extract or some finely chopped nuts for added crunch. Just make sure not to alter the liquid ingredients too much so that the balance of the dough remains correct!
Coconut Thins: Irresistibly Crispy Treats You’ll Love to Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or Gas mark 4 and line two baking trays with parchment paper.
- Combine the butter, demerara sugar, and golden syrup in a heavy-based pan.
- Gently heat over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly (about 2-3 minutes), then sift in the plain flour and add the lemon juice, stirring until well combined.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto prepared trays, spacing them about 10 cm (4 inches) apart, and sprinkle with shredded coconut.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until they spread nicely and turn a dark golden color.
- Sprinkle more shredded coconut over cookies when they come out of the oven and let them cool on the tray.
- Once cooled, store in an airtight container.