Hedda'S Cookies
Hedda's Cookies are sweet, coconut-flavored treats with a tender crumb and a hint of almond, perfect for cookie swaps, parties, or as a delightful homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together sugar, shortening, egg, and almond extract.
- Add flour and salt and blend well.
- Fold in the flaked coconut.
- Shape the mixture into one-inch balls.
- Place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Flatten each ball with a fork.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15 to 18 minutes until slightly golden around the edges.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use room temperature shortening to ensure it blends smoothly with the sugar. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract can be a great substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor. You can also add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for variation. Experiment with different types of coconut for a unique twist, like sweetened or unsweetened flakes.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delicious on their own but also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful dessert spread, serve them alongside Mini Cheese Blintzes or a slice of Chocolate Spice Cake (Small). They can also be enjoyed at parties or as a sweet treat for lunchboxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy them again, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hedda'S Cookies contains roughly 420 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1918mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
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 margarine instead of shortening in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for shortening, but it may result in a softer cookie. Make sure to use a stick margarine for the best consistency. The flavor will also be slightly different, but the cookies will still be enjoyable.
What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Ensure that you measure flour correctly, as too much moisture can lead to a sticky dough. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can also help firm it up.
How can I make these cookies more chewy?
To achieve a chewier texture, consider adding an extra egg yolk or using brown sugar instead of some or all of the white sugar. You can also slightly underbake the cookies to keep them soft and chewy in the middle, while still achieving a golden edge.
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).