Coconut Cherry Chews
Coconut Cherry Chews are delightful no-bake treats featuring tender cookies coated in coconut, infused with almond flavor, and topped with a cherry center—perfect for sweet snacking and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease cookie sheets.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, margarine, 1 cup coconut, almond extract, and egg; mix at low speed until well blended and dough forms.
- In a small bowl, beat egg white and water until foamy.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls.
- Dip each ball into the egg white mixture, then roll in coconut to coat.
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheets.
- Press a cherry into the center of each cookie, pressing down lightly.
- Bake at 375°F for 11 to 14 minutes, or until edges are light golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting the margarine with unsalted butter. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. To make the cookies even more festive, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough. Ensure the dough is chilled before baking to maintain the shape. This recipe can be easily adapted into a vegan version by using a plant-based egg substitute.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a dessert platter alongside other treats like the Chocolate Peppermint Sensation Cake or Hoosier Apple-Yogurt Coffee Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Coconut Cherry Chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. To reheat, pop them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut Cherry Chews contains roughly 154 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
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 fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but be sure to pit and slice them beforehand. Fresh cherries will provide a more natural flavor, but they will release more moisture during baking, so monitor the cookies closely to avoid overbaking.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these Coconut Cherry Chews gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum to help with the structure. Additionally, always check that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are gluten-free.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to work with, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Alternatively, you can add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches a workable consistency. Just be careful not to add too much, as it might affect the texture of the cookies.
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).