Coconut Cookies with Dried Mango Chunks – A Tropical Twist on Classic Cookies

If you're looking for a tropical twist on classic cookies, these coconut cookies with dried mango chunks are a delightful choice. With the natural sweetness of coconut and the tangy, chewy pieces of dried mango, each bite feels like a taste of summer. These cookies are perfect for those who love exotic flavors and crave a treat that’s both flavorful and easy to make.

The blend of shredded coconut and dried mango creates a balanced texture, with a chewy interior and a slightly crisp edge. They’re excellent for snacking, sharing, or adding to a dessert table for a unique treat that stands out.

Ingredients:

To make these coconut cookies with dried mango chunks, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup dried mango, chopped into small pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the shredded coconut, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.

3. Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step creates a chewy texture in the cookies.

4. Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well combined. The vanilla enhances the coconut flavor, giving the cookies a warm, tropical aroma.

5. Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour and coconut mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

6. Fold in the Dried Mango

Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped dried mango pieces. The mango adds bursts of fruity flavor and a chewy texture that complements the coconut.

7. Portion and Shape the Cookies

Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

8. Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set. For a slightly crispier cookie, bake an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent over-browning.

9. Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the cookies fresh, or store them for a delicious tropical treat anytime.

Tips and Variations

• Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter and use a flaxseed “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly version.
• Add Zest: For an extra citrusy note, add a teaspoon of lime or lemon zest to the dough.
• Mix in Other Dried Fruits: Combine the mango with other tropical fruits like dried pineapple or papaya for a multi-flavored cookie.
• Use Sweetened Coconut: For a sweeter cookie, use sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened.

Serving Suggestions

These coconut cookies with dried mango are perfect for a variety of occasions:

1. As a Tropical Dessert: Serve with a scoop of coconut or mango sorbet for a tropical dessert pairing.
2. With Afternoon Tea: Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or iced tea for a refreshing snack.
3. Dipped in Chocolate: Dip half of each cookie in melted dark or white chocolate and let set for an extra touch of indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These coconut cookies with dried mango chunks are a fun and unique twist on traditional cookies, offering a tropical flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The chewy coconut and bursts of mango make them perfect for anyone craving a little taste of paradise, whether it’s for a summer treat or a winter pick-me-up.

Nutritional Benefits of Coconut and Dried Mango

These coconut cookies with dried mango offer not only tropical flavors but also nutritional benefits. Coconut is rich in healthy fats, especially medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known for providing quick energy and supporting brain health. It’s also a good source of dietary fiber, helping you feel full and supporting digestive health. Dried mango adds natural sweetness and is packed with vitamins, especially vitamin A, which supports vision and immune health.

Tips for Best Results

For the best texture, be sure not to overbake these cookies; they should be golden brown on the edges while remaining slightly soft in the center. If you like a softer, chewier texture, consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter or a dash of coconut cream to the dough. For a more coconut-forward flavor, lightly toast the shredded coconut before mixing it into the dough—this brings out a deeper, nuttier flavor that pairs wonderfully with the dried mango.

These cookies are perfect for sharing or gifting, especially when wrapped in a decorative box or jar. Their tropical flavors make them ideal for summer gatherings or as a sweet, sunny reminder during colder months. Enjoy these chewy, flavorful bites of paradise!

Storing and Shelf Life

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer and enjoy them whenever you crave a tropical snack.

Customizing Your Coconut Mango Cookies

Feel free to personalize these cookies by adding a handful of nuts like macadamias for a buttery crunch, or a touch of ginger powder for a warm spice note that complements the tropical flavors.

Coconut cookies with dried mango chunks are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that brings a little bit of the tropics to your kitchen. Perfect for all ages, these cookies are sure to become a favorite for their unique flavor and chewy texture. Enjoy a taste of summer with each delicious bite!