Molasses Coconut Chews
Chewy molasses coconut cookies with rich flavors of molasses and coconut flakes, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat for coconut lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the white sugar, brown sugar, and shortening.
- Add the beaten eggs, vanilla, and molasses; beat well.
- Sift together the flour, soda, and salt; stir into the creamed mixture.
- Stir in the coconut flakes.
- Shape into small balls and place on a greased cookie sheet about 3 inches apart.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you prefer a healthier twist, substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to sift your flour to avoid clumps, and if you're in a humid environment, add a touch more flour to achieve the right consistency. These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk!
Serving Suggestions
These chews can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter with treats like Strawberry Ice Cream Pie or Kentucky Apple Cake. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Molasses Coconut Chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can also refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you want to reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Coconut Chews contains roughly 1096 calories, with 3g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1897mg per serving (82% 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 fresh coconut instead of flakes?
Yes, you can use fresh grated coconut if you prefer. Just make sure to reduce the moisture in your dough slightly, as fresh coconut can add extra moisture to the batter. You might also want to toast the fresh coconut lightly to enhance the flavor before adding it to the mixture.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. You can also chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to shape into balls before baking.
How can I make these cookies chewy instead of crunchy?
To achieve a chewier texture, slightly under-bake the cookies by a minute or two. Also, ensure you don't overmix the dough after adding the flour, as this can lead to a tougher cookie. Using more brown sugar than white sugar can also contribute to a chewier texture.
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).