Indulge in the perfect treat with our melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are not only yummy but also quick and easy to make. This delightful dessert will become a favorite in your household, combining the rich flavors of butter, lemon zest, and peach jam with the delicate texture of grated coconut. Follow our comprehensive guide to create these delectable cookies that will have everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 4.4 oz (125 g) butter
- 4.4 oz (125 g) sugar
- 4.2 fl oz (125 ml) oil
- 2 medium eggs
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 17.6 oz (500 g) flour
- 0.2 oz (6 g) baking powder
- Peach jam (as needed)
- Grated coconut (as needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix Butter and Sugar
Preheat your oven to 180ºC (356ºF). Start by combining the butter, lemon zest, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Using a spatula, stir the ingredients until they are well incorporated, forming a smooth paste. The butter should be at room temperature to ensure it blends seamlessly with the sugar.
2. Add the Eggs
Crack the eggs into the butter and sugar mixture. Using a whisk, blend the eggs into the mixture until fully integrated. Next, pour in the oil and whisk again to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. The oil will add moisture to the dough, ensuring the cookies have a tender texture.
3. Finish the Dough
Add a tablespoon of peach jam to the mixture and stir until it is evenly distributed. The jam adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the flavor profile of the cookies. Gradually add the baking powder and flour, kneading the mixture with your hands until it forms a smooth dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
4. Form the Cookies and Bake
Shape the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut, and lightly flatten them with your palm. Place the dough balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring there is enough space between each cookie for them to expand slightly while baking.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until they turn a light golden color. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking, which can result in dry cookies. Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely.
5. Dip and Decorate
Once the cookies are cool, dip each one into peach jam, ensuring it is well coated. Then, roll the cookies in grated coconut until they are fully covered. The combination of peach jam and coconut adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, making these cookies irresistible.
Tips for the Perfect Cookie
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting the recipe. This helps in achieving a smooth and homogeneous dough.
- Lemon Zest: Only use the yellow part of the lemon peel, as the white pith can add bitterness to the cookies.
- Uniform Size: Try to make the dough balls uniform in size to ensure even baking.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool completely before dipping them in jam and coconut to prevent them from breaking.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for any occasion. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat, or include them in your dessert spread for parties and gatherings. They also make wonderful homemade gifts when packaged in a decorative tin or box.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls and bake them fresh as needed. Just allow the dough to come to room temperature before baking.
