If you’re a fan of chewy, chocolaty, and nutty treats, these Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies are going to be a revelation! Packed with the comforting flavors of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate, and pecans, this recipe offers the perfect blend of sweetness, crunch, and chewiness. Ideal for holiday gatherings, afternoon treats, or when you simply need a satisfying cookie fix, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to love.
Why We Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons why this cookie recipe has become a favorite for so many people:
- Simplicity: With just a few ingredients, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it great for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate, toasted pecans, and sweetened coconut creates a layered flavor profile that’s deeply satisfying and irresistible.
- Unique Texture: These cookies boast a delightful mix of crunchy, chewy, and creamy textures, making each bite a treat.
- Versatile: They work well for various occasions—whether it’s a holiday cookie exchange, a family get-together, or simply an evening snack.
Ingredients
- 14 oz. bag sweetened coconut flakes: Coconut adds a unique flavor and chewy texture to these cookies while also complementing the chocolate and pecan.
- 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk: This ingredient acts as a binder while adding creaminess and sweetness.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Chocolate is, of course, a key flavor here! The semi-sweet chips balance out the sweetness of the condensed milk and coconut.
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans: Pecans offer a toasty, nutty flavor with a bit of crunch. They add a nice contrast to the soft texture of the cookie.
How to Make Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut flakes and sweetened condensed milk, stirring until well mixed. Add the chocolate chips and chopped pecans, folding them gently into the mixture until evenly distributed.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, portion the mixture into small mounds (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 1–2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown on the edges. The centers may still look a bit soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Success Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Since this recipe relies on just a handful of ingredients, make sure they’re fresh and of high quality. Fresh coconut flakes and high-quality chocolate chips can make a noticeable difference.
- Be Mindful of Baking Time: The key to achieving the perfect texture is not over-baking. The cookies should be golden brown around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. This helps them stay chewy rather than turning hard.
- Line Your Baking Sheets: Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat helps to prevent sticking, making it much easier to remove the cookies from the baking sheet without breaking.
- Use a Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop ensures consistent sizes, which leads to even baking. If you don’t have a scoop, you can use a spoon but try to keep each cookie as uniform as possible.
Storage
To keep these cookies fresh and delicious, store them properly:
- At Room Temperature: Place the cookies in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 5 days. A layer of parchment paper between layers will prevent sticking.
- In the Refrigerator: These cookies can also be refrigerated for up to 10 days if you prefer them to be a bit firmer and chilled.
- In the Freezer: Freeze for longer storage! Simply place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before eating, or enjoy them slightly chilled.
Notes
- Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Swap pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for different flavor combinations. You can also try using dark chocolate chips or adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet touch.
- Make it Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t use flour. Just make sure to double-check your ingredients for any hidden gluten if you have an intolerance.
- Sweetened Coconut Substitution: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, try unsweetened coconut flakes, which will reduce the overall sweetness slightly.
Nutrition
These Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies are indulgent treats that should be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s an approximate breakdown for each cookie, though the actual nutrition may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients:
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 20mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g
FAQs
1. Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes! If you prefer less sweetness, unsweetened coconut flakes are a good option. You may find that the cookies have a slightly drier texture, but they will still taste delicious.
2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are ready when the edges turn golden brown. The centers may still appear soft, but they will firm up as the cookies cool.
3. Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! You can replace the pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even cashews. Each type of nut will bring a unique flavor and texture to the cookies.
4. What if I don’t have parchment paper?
If you don’t have parchment paper, you can use a silicone baking mat or lightly grease your baking sheets. Just be careful as the cookies may spread more on a greased sheet.
5. Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe doesn’t use flour, so it’s naturally gluten-free. However, always double-check all your ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free, as some products may have cross-contamination.
Conclusion
Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of chocolate, coconut, and pecans in a way that’s sure to please any cookie lover. With their easy preparation and unique flavor profile, these cookies are a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire, perfect for any occasion. Give them a try, and watch as they quickly become a family favorite!
Enjoy these cookies with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk, and savor every chewy, chocolaty, nutty bite.