Go Back
–+ servings
coconut surprise cookie in hand

Grandma’s Coconut Surprise Cookies (Vintage Christmas Cookie)

5 from 1 vote
These Coconut Surprise Cookies are an old-fashioned, hand-shaped cookie made with a simple shortening-based dough, wrapped around a hidden nut or piece of fruit, rolled in coconut, and baked until lightly golden. They are a tender shortbread-style holiday cookie with a crisp coconut outside and a surprise center inside.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Remove Ads
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 145
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Coconut, for rolling
  • A nut or piece of fruit, for the center

Equipment

Digital Scale
Digital Scale
Cookie Scoop
Cookie Scoop
Heavy Duty Baking Half-Sheet
Heavy Duty Baking Half-Sheet
Silicone Baking Mats
Silicone Baking Mats

Method
 

  1. Cream shortening, sugar, and vanilla together until smooth and fully incorporated.
  2. Add flour and salt to the creamed mixture.
  3. Mix well until a cohesive dough forms.
  4. Shape small pieces of dough firmly around a nut or a piece of fruit so it is completely enclosed.
  5. Roll the shaped dough balls thoroughly in shredded coconut until coated.
  6. Bake at 325°F for 20 minutes until the coconut is lightly golden and the cookies feel set.

Nutrition

Calories: 145kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 1gFat: 10g

Notes

TEXTURE TIP: These cookies should be tender and lightly sweet, with coconut on the outside and a small surprise center.
FILLING TIP: Use small pieces of nuts or fruit so the dough can fully wrap around the center.
SHAPING TIP: If the dough feels too soft, chill it briefly before shaping.
SERVING TIP: These are great on a vintage Christmas cookie tray with other old-fashioned family cookies.

Tried this recipe?

Mention or tag @bakedlean!