No-Bake Coconut Cookies

A quick, no-bake coconut cookie you can make with maple syrup and shredded coconut.

This No-Bake Coconut Cookies recipe uses just a few simple ingredients and no oven. It comes together fast and tastes sweet and chewy. If you like easy cookie ideas, you can also try a similar option from this easy peanut butter cookie recipe for more simple treats.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because the maple syrup cooks to the soft-ball stage and then crystals when beaten. The sugar change makes a sticky, firm base that holds the shredded coconut. No baking means the texture stays chewy and coconut-forward.

Why you should try this recipe

Try this if you want a quick sweet that needs no oven and few hands-on minutes. It is great for hot days or when you want a fast dessert. It also uses pantry items and makes a small batch to share. For more simple cookie ideas, see this simple peanut butter cookie recipe to compare textures and flavors.

How to make No-Bake Coconut Cookies

Follow the cold-start steps below once the syrup reaches the right temperature. Work quickly after cooling five minutes so the syrup crystals correctly. Add cocoa or flavoring if you want a chocolate or extra coconut note.

Ingredients :

• 1 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 teaspoon coconut flavoring or vanilla (optional)
• 1 Tablespoon cocoa powder (optional)

Equipments Needed

• Pan or small saucepan
• Candy thermometer (clip to the pan)
• Fork, hand beaters, or stick blender
• Spoon or small scoop (teaspoon or tablespoon)
• Parchment paper or waxed paper
• Bowl and spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Pour maple syrup into a pan, and clip a candy thermometer to the side.
2. Bring to a boil, and continue boiling until the mixture reaches soft ball stage (234-236ºF).
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool for five minutes.
4. Begin to beat with a fork (or you can use beaters or a stick blender if you want to), until it just begins to crystalize.
5. Add cocoa powder or flavoring if desired.
6. Add in shredded coconut and stir together.
7. Drop by teaspoon or tablespoon onto parchment or waxed paper.
8. Allow to cool.
9. Enjoy!

How to serve No-Bake Coconut Cookies

Serve them at room temperature. Put cookies on a small plate or a napkin for snacks, or arrange them on a platter for guests. If you want a mix of flavors, serve with a few peanut cookies from this easy peanut butter cookie recipe so guests can try both.

How to store No-Bake Coconut Cookies

Keep in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Let them come to room temperature before serving so they soften a bit.

Tips & Tricks

• Use a candy thermometer to hit the soft-ball stage precisely.
• Cool the syrup five minutes before beating; too hot and it will be too runny.
• Beat until just crystalized; over-beating can make them too hard.
• Use fresh shredded coconut for the best taste and texture.
• If you want firmer cookies, press them down slightly after dropping. For a lighter bite, drop larger spoonfuls and leave them round.

Variations & Substitutions

• Cocoa powder makes a chocolate version.
• Use vanilla if you don’t have coconut flavoring.
• Swap maple syrup for a different liquid sweetener (note: texture and flavor will change).
• Add a pinch of salt to cut sweetness.
• Mix in chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different sweetener than maple syrup?
A: You can try other syrup-like sweeteners, but results may change. Maple syrup gives good flavor and cooks well.

Q: Can I make these without a candy thermometer?
A: It is possible but harder. You can test soft-ball stage by dropping a little syrup into cold water and seeing if it forms a soft ball. A thermometer is easier and more reliable.

Q: Why did my cookies turn out too hard?
A: You likely cooked the syrup past the soft-ball stage or over-beat the mixture. Check the temperature and watch beating time.

Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

These No-Bake Coconut Cookies are quick, sweet, and great for a no-oven treat. For a chocolate-coconut twist from another source, see this Allrecipes no-bake chocolate coconut cookies. If you want a sugar-free, dairy-free version idea, check this Whole New Mom sugar-free coconut cookies.

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