Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies

Name: Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delightful cookies that combine the zesty flavor of lemon with the creamy richness of cheesecake and the tropical twist of coconut.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:16:36.759Z

These Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies are a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The bright lemon zest and creamy cheesecake filling create a delightful treat that is both refreshing and indulgent. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a personal treat.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up your day
Creamy cheesecake center that offers a delightful surprise
Coconut flakes add a wonderful texture and tropical flair
Perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies are incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply treating yourself to something sweet, these cookies will impress your guests. Their vibrant flavors and unique texture make them an ideal choice for festive events, afternoon teas, or even as a delightful addition to your dessert table at family gatherings.

Additionally, they can be enjoyed year-round. The bright lemon and coconut flavors evoke a sense of tropical relaxation, making them a refreshing treat during the summer months. Conversely, they provide a cozy indulgence that can brighten up chilly autumn or winter days. No matter the season, these cookies will make your taste buds dance with joy.

A Unique Flavor Combination

The combination of lemon, coconut, and cheesecake creates a unique flavor profile that stands out from traditional cookie recipes. The zesty lemon brings a refreshing brightness, while the coconut adds a delightful chewiness and a hint of tropical sweetness. The creamy cheesecake filling provides a luscious surprise that takes each bite to the next level, making these cookies a true standout treat.

One of the best things about these cookies is how they cater to different palates. The balance of sweetness and tanginess ensures that they are not overly rich, making them enjoyable for both those who love a sweet treat and those who prefer a hint of tartness. This balance makes them a highly desirable option for cookie lovers everywhere.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To ensure your Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies turn out perfectly, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve consistent results, especially when dealing with flour and sugar. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, which allows for better creaming with sugar, resulting in a lighter cookie texture.

Another critical tip is to avoid overmixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients. This can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender, chewy texture you desire. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best results. Finally, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and prevents them from breaking apart.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

For the Cheesecake Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready before you start.

Instructions

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Beat until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Make the Cookie Dough

In another bowl, whisk together flour, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.

Assemble the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop a tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it slightly. Place a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center, then cover it with another tablespoon of dough. Roll into a ball and place on the baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, maintaining their delightful flavor and texture. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, but be aware that this may slightly alter their texture, making them firmer.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies before or after baking. If freezing unbaked dough, scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can bake fresh cookies anytime by simply popping them in the oven, no thawing required.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further by serving them with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze. A simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice can add an extra layer of sweetness while enhancing the lemony flavor.

For a more decadent treat, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut sorbet. The cold creaminess complements the warm cookies beautifully, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors. Serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon snack.

Variations to Try

While the original recipe for Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations! For a fun twist, consider adding white chocolate chips or chopped macadamia nuts to the cookie dough for additional flavor and texture. The creamy richness of white chocolate pairs beautifully with the lemon and coconut.

If you prefer a different citrus flavor, lime can be substituted for lemon to create Lime Coconut Cheesecake Cookies. The process remains the same, but the flavor profile shifts to a more tropical theme. Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to your taste preferences, ensuring that every batch is uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

Yes, you can use mascarpone cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie balls. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for coconut?

If you're not a fan of coconut, you can omit it entirely or replace it with chopped nuts.