Washboards
Washboard cookies are crispy, coconut-infused treats with a distinctive fluted design, perfect for coconut lovers and ideal for sharing at gatherings or as a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening, sugar, and eggs together.
- Add water and vanilla, then incorporate the dry ingredients.
- Mix in coconut and chill the dough for at least 2 hours.
- Roll the dough into balls, flatten into an oblong about 1/4 inch thick, and press each cookie lengthwise with a floured fork to create a washboard effect.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of butter or coconut oil. Make sure to chill the dough adequately to achieve the best texture; this step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These washboards are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Explore more American recipes for a complete dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover washboards in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to maintain their freshness longer, consider freezing them. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warm and slightly crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Washboards contains roughly 222 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 532mg per serving (23% 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 a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar if needed, but keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Brown sugar adds moisture and a richer taste, so the cookies may be less chewy with granulated sugar.
What if I don't have coconut?
If you don't have coconut on hand, you can replace it with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch. Alternatively, you could use dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to give a different flavor profile.
Can I make these cookies smaller?
Absolutely! If you prefer smaller cookies, simply roll the dough into smaller balls and adjust the baking time. Start checking for doneness around 7-8 minutes for smaller washboards to prevent 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).