Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a truly indulgent treat, let me introduce you to my irresistible Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies. These cookies are loaded with gooey chocolate chips, hearty pieces of pecan, and a sweet, chewy coconut twist—all perfectly baked into every bite. With the ideal balance of crispy edges and soft, tender centers, these cookies are a showstopper at any gathering and just as delightful when you need a pick-me-up alongside your afternoon coffee. Once you taste the magical trio of chocolate, pecans, and coconut, you’ll understand why these are always the first treats to disappear from the cookie jar!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about these Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies is how a few simple, classic ingredients create such a deliciously complex cookie. Each element brings its own essential flavor and perfect texture—nothing fancy, just pure cookie bliss!

• Unsalted butter (softened): The key to rich flavor and a tender crumb; make sure it’s truly soft for easy creaming.
• Brown sugar (packed): Adds deep caramel notes and helps keep the cookies perfectly chewy.
• Granulated sugar: Brings a crisp edge and that balanced sweetness.
• Large eggs: Essential for structure and that beautiful cookie lift.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with warm, cozy undertones.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of every great cookie, giving structure and softness.
• Baking soda: Ensures your cookies puff up and get their dreamy texture.
• Salt: Don’t skip it! Just a bit amplifies the sweetness and chocolate flavor.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Every bite bursts with melty chocolate—go big or go home!
• Sweetened shredded coconut: Provides chewy sweetness and that subtle tropical flair.
• Chopped pecans: For crunch, richness, and a nutty dimension that takes these cookies over the top.

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper—this not only prevents sticking, but also helps the cookies bake up evenly with beautifully golden bottoms. A little prep at this stage makes cleanup a breeze and keeps your cookies picture-perfect!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

To achieve that signature tender and chewy texture, beat the softened butter together with brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Take your time here (about 2–3 minutes); creaming is what creates those dreamy, bakery-worthy cookie interiors. Trust me, the extra minute makes a difference!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step helps the dough come together smoothly and gives you cookies that puff up just right. Stir in the vanilla extract for that little extra hug of flavor.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This quick step ensures the leavening and salt are scattered throughout the flour, so you won’t get any uneven bites. It’s a small move that guarantees big results!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, using a spoon or low speed on your mixer. Only mix until you don’t see streaks of flour—overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want these Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies to stay soft and irresistible.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate, Coconut, and Pecans

Here’s where the real magic happens. Gently fold in the chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. If you want to up the ante, toast the coconut and pecans first for an extra layer of flavor (just pop them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant). Every spoonful of dough should be generously studded—don’t skimp!

Step 7: Portion and Bake

Use a rounded tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop your dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave about 2 inches between each one—they’ll spread as they bake. Pop them in the oven for 10–12 minutes, or until you see beautiful golden edges and set centers. Resist the urge to overbake; the cookies will finish setting as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This brief rest sets the texture, so you’ll get that just-right combination of crispy edges and tender middles. Now, go ahead and sneak a warm one—they’re impossible to resist!

How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies

Garnishes

For an elegant touch, sprinkle your Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies with a pinch of flaky sea salt right after they come out of the oven. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the tops or dust lightly with powdered sugar to up the wow factor. If you love a bit of extra coconut, a little more sprinkled on top never hurt anyone!

Side Dishes

These cookies are perfect with cold milk, a cup of rich hot cocoa, or even a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. I also love serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad or next to a cheese board for a sweet-and-savory treat. They fit right in at brunch, especially when coffee or tea is on offer.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting, stack a few Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies in a glass jar with a ribbon or tuck them into a pretty gift tin. They make a stunning addition to holiday cookie platters, or you can sandwich a little ice cream between two cookies for homemade ice cream sandwiches. Don’t be surprised if they vanish from the dessert table before anything else!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store the Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to five days—though honestly, they rarely last that long in my house! Just be sure the container is sealed to keep out air, which can dry them out.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. Arrange cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. For extra ease, you can also freeze individual balls of raw dough and bake straight from frozen, just adding a minute or two to the bake time.

Reheating

If you love warm cookies, pop a Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookie in the microwave for about 8–10 seconds, just until the chocolate gets melty and the center is soft. For a crispier edge, a few minutes in a 300°F oven will do the trick. Either way, they taste just-baked in no time!

FAQs

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?

Absolutely! Unsweetened coconut will give you a less sweet, slightly drier cookie, so you might want to add a couple of extra tablespoons of sugar to balance things out. Both versions work beautifully in Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies.

What’s the best way to toast pecans and coconut?

Just spread the chopped pecans and coconut out on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring once, until they’re fragrant and golden. Let them cool before mixing into your dough for even more flavor in every bite.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. The cookies will still be chewy and delicious, and everyone can enjoy a batch of Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies regardless of dietary needs.

How do I keep my cookies soft for days?

Place a slice of sandwich bread in your cookie jar or container; the moisture from the bread helps keep the cookies soft and fresh. Just replace the bread slice if it gets too hard or dry.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Certainly! White chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can all add a fun new twist. Don’t hesitate to make these Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies uniquely yours by experimenting with your favorite flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to bake (and eat!) these Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies as I am to share them with you. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a cookie swap, or just because, these treats are sure to bring smiles and requests for seconds. Go ahead—preheat the oven and treat yourself to some sweet homemade magic!

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