Discover the Joy of Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies

Ahh, the flavors of the tropics! If you’re dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, these Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect way to transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched island paradise. With their buttery, coconut-infused dough and a sweet pineapple jam center, these thumbprint cookies are a delightful twist on a classic baking favorite.

Thumbprint cookies have long been a staple in baking traditions, with their distinctive indentation just begging to be filled with something delicious. In this Hawaiian-inspired rendition, we’re swapping out the traditional jam or preserves for a tropical pineapple filling that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. And with the addition of sweet shredded coconut, these cookies truly capture the essence of the islands.

Whether you’re hosting a luau-themed party, looking for a fun baking project with the kids, or simply craving a taste of the tropics, these Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies are sure to delight. So grab your favorite Hawaiian shirt, crank up the ukulele music, and let’s get baking!

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies

The lineup of ingredients for these Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies is simple, yet packed with flavor. Let’s take a closer look at each component and its role in creating the perfect tropical treat:

• Unsalted Butter, Softened: The foundation of the cookie dough, providing a rich, creamy texture and helping to bind the ingredients together.
• Granulated Sugar: Adding sweetness and helping to create the desired cookie texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: The structure and base of the cookie dough, providing stability and shape.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhancing the overall flavor profile and complementing the tropical notes.
• Salt: Balancing the sweetness and bringing out the other flavors.
• Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Infusing the cookies with a delightful tropical coconut flavor and a delicate texture.
• Pineapple Jam or Preserves: The star of the show, providing a sweet and tangy pineapple filling that’s the perfect complement to the coconut-infused dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies

Ready to bring the flavors of Hawaii to your kitchen? Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, press an indentation into the center of each ball to create a well for the filling.
4. Add the Pineapple Filling: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of pineapple jam or preserves into the indentation of each cookie.
5. Coat with Coconut: Sprinkle the shredded coconut around the edges of each cookie, or lightly press some into the sides if desired.
6. Bake to Perfection: Pop the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and enjoy the tropical flavors of these delightful Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies!

Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies

To ensure your Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips and tricks:

• Chilled Dough: For the best results, chill the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before shaping and baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Uniform Sizing: Aim for consistent 1-inch dough balls to ensure even baking and a uniform look to your cookies.
• Indentation Depth: Press the indentation deep enough to hold a generous amount of pineapple filling, but not so deep that the dough tears.
• Substitutions: While pineapple jam or preserves are the traditional filling, you can experiment with other tropical flavors like mango, guava, or even a combination of pineapple and coconut jam.
• Dairy-Free Option: To make these cookies dairy-free, simply substitute the unsalted butter with your favorite plant-based butter or coconut oil.
• Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information and Serving Suggestions

Each Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookie contains approximately 120 calories, 6 grams of fat, 16 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of protein. These delightful treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while offering a tropical twist on a classic cookie.

Serve these Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies alongside a refreshing tropical drink, like a pineapple-coconut smoothie or a fruity mocktail. They also make a lovely addition to a Hawaiian-themed party or luau, complementing other island-inspired dishes and desserts.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Tropical Coconut Macaroons
• Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
• Coconut Cream Pie
• Passion Fruit Tart

FAQs about Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies

Can I use canned pineapple or fresh pineapple for these cookies?

While fresh pineapple can certainly be used, canned pineapple jam or preserves work best for these cookies. The thicker consistency of the jam or preserves helps it hold its shape better in the indentation and provides a more concentrated pineapple flavor.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?

To prevent excessive spreading, be sure to chill the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before shaping and baking. This helps the dough hold its shape better during the baking process. Additionally, be mindful of not over-mixing the dough, as this can also contribute to too much spread.

Can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, you can easily make these Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies vegan or dairy-free. Simply substitute the unsalted butter with your preferred plant-based butter or coconut oil. For the filling, use a vegan-friendly pineapple jam or preserves.

How should I store Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies to keep them fresh?

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the frozen cookies at room temperature before enjoying their tropical flavors.

Conclusion

These Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful way to bring the flavors of the islands into your home. With their buttery, coconut-infused dough and a sweet pineapple jam center, they’re a tropical twist on a classic cookie that’s sure to delight your taste buds. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to experience a little slice of Hawaii in every bite!

Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed these Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies and if you have any other tropical recipe ideas to share. Happy baking, and aloha!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

Print