Barbara'S Macaroon Sugar Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 8 min Serves: 60 Cuisine: American

Barbara's Macaroon Sugar Cookies are delightful, coconut-infused treats with pecans that offer a crispy edge and chewy center, perfect for cookie lovers and festive occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup coconut
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter or oleo
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup potato flakes (instant)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Heat oven to 375°F.
  2. Combine sugar, brown sugar, shortening, oleo, and vanilla until well blended.
  3. Beat in the egg.
  4. Lightly spoon in flour, potato flakes, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined.
  5. Stir in coconut and chopped pecans.
  6. Shape dough into 1-inch balls and flatten with the sugared bottom of a glass.
  7. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening or oleo. You can substitute the coconut with chopped dried fruits for a different texture. If you're short on time, store-bought potato flakes are a great alternative. Also, ensure to measure your flour correctly to avoid dense cookies. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

These macaroon sugar cookies are perfect for a sweet treat with coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Lemon Poppy Seed Coffee Cake for a delightful brunch spread. For a festive touch, serve them on a dessert platter alongside other cookies like Valomino Bars. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie exchanges.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature. If you want them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbara'S Macaroon Sugar Cookies contains roughly 2279 calories, with 14g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 190g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2386mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).

2279 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 14.2g 28% DV
Total Fat 189.6g 100% DV
Carbs 147.3g 54% DV
Fiber 13.5g 48% DV
Sugar 64.5g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2386.2mg 100% DV
Potassium 1023mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 157.9mg 53% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 53.4mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 16.7mg 19% DV
Calcium 262mg 20% DV
Iron 5.4mg 30% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular potatoes instead of potato flakes?

Using regular potatoes can alter the texture and moisture content of the cookies. If you want to experiment, make sure to cook and mash the potatoes thoroughly, then measure out the equivalent amount to replace the flakes. However, instant potato flakes are recommended for the best results.

What can I substitute for coconut if I don’t like it?

If coconut isn't your preference, you can replace it with chopped nuts or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that this will change the cookie's texture and taste, but it will still be delicious.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool. If they look too pale, give them an additional minute or two in the oven, but watch carefully to avoid overbaking.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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