If you’re dreaming of cookies that whisk you away to a sunlit tropical afternoon, these Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies are pure joy in every bite. With a perfect balance of tangy key lime and sweet coconut, each cookie delivers a burst of bright, zesty flavor wrapped in a soft, crinkly shell of powdered sugar. They’re irresistibly chewy, beautifully crackled, and destined to become the star of your cookie rotation, whether you’re sharing with friends or sinking your teeth into one as a personal pick-me-up.

Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be surprised at how basic pantry staples can create such punchy, dazzling results! Each ingredient in these Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies brings something special—whether it’s vibrant citrus notes, irresistible chew, or that signature crinkle finish.

All-purpose flour: This forms the scrumptious base that holds the cookies together while letting the other flavors shine through.
Baking powder: Gives the cookies a soft, puffy lift that’s essential for that signature crinkled texture.
Salt: Just a touch enhances all the sweet and tangy notes in every bite.
Butter (soft/room temperature): Ensures a rich, melt-in-your-mouth base and helps cream sugar for a fluffy dough.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens everything up and works with the butter to create tender, chewy cookie centers.
Sweetened shredded coconut: Adds that chewy tropical texture and just a hint of extra sweetness.
Large eggs: Bind the dough and give structure so every cookie holds together perfectly.
Key lime zest: Absolutely essential for a bright, aromatic burst of citrus in each cookie.
Key lime juice: Infuses the dough with that unmistakable tang—don’t skip it!
Coconut extract: Ramps up the coconut flavor and gives real tropical depth.
Powdered sugar: Rolls each dough ball in a snowy layer that bakes up into those classic crinkles.

How to Make Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prep Baking Sheets and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, making sure those cookies get the perfect amount of rise and color. Line your baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper so nothing sticks. The crinkle finish really pops when you bake on a smooth, nonstick surface!

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This quick mix ensures even distribution, so every bite of your Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies puffs up with just the right amount of lift and a touch of saltiness to accent the sweetness.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Coconut

Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and the sweetened shredded coconut. Mix until the blend is light and fluffy—this is what sets the stage for extra-chewy cookies with irresistible coconut notes.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Citrus, and Coconut Extract

Crack in your eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition for a silky dough. Next, stir in that fragrant key lime zest, fresh key lime juice, and a dose of coconut extract for an intensively tropical, citrusy dough. This is where the magic fragrance happens!

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients

On your mixer’s lowest setting, slowly add the dry ingredients you whisked together earlier. Mix only until everything is combined—this keeps your Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies lusciously soft and tender (overmixing is the enemy of soft cookies!). The dough should be thick and just a little bit sticky.

Step 6: Scoop and Roll in Powdered Sugar

Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Using a #40 cookie scoop (about 1 1/2–1 3/4 tablespoons), scoop mounds of dough. Drop each mound into the powdered sugar, rolling until coated on all sides. The sugar clings beautifully and will create those iconic crackles as the cookies bake.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Put the sugared cookies on your prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart to allow for that signature spread. Bake for 9–11 minutes, until the cookies are puffy and the edges are firm. Let them cool a few minutes on the pan to set before transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cool, get ready for the ultimate Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies experience!

How to Serve Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies

Garnishes

For a pretty finish, lightly grate a bit more key lime zest on top of the freshly cooled cookies or sprinkle with a whisper of extra powdered sugar. If you want to go tropical, a tiny flake of toasted coconut on each cookie sets a festive, beachy tone.

Side Dishes

These cookies absolutely shine on their own, but pair them with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream for a breezy dessert plate. A mug of hot tea or a tall glass of icy limeade on the side makes this a dreamy teatime treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies on a pastel cake stand for a spring or summer party, or tuck a few into glassine bags tied with raffia for a sweet homemade gift. They also look adorable nested in a box with parchment paper and a few whole key limes for extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cool, store your Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and bright for up to four days—perfect for snacking straight from the jar.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies after baking. Place them in a single layer in a sealed container and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature, and they’re nearly as good as fresh, still bursting with bright coconut and citrus flavors.

Reheating

If you want to resort some just-baked magic, pop a cookie in the microwave for 7–10 seconds. It revives the soft, chewy texture and makes the lime and coconut aromas dance once more.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes if I can’t find key limes?

Absolutely! While key limes are slightly more floral and tangy, regular limes will still make delicious, zesty Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies. Just use the same measurements for juice and zest.

Do I need to use coconut extract?

Coconut extract really boosts the tropical flavor, but if you don’t have any on hand, the cookies will still be tasty thanks to the sweetened shredded coconut. The extract just takes it to the next level!

Can I chill the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can chill the dough for several hours or overnight if you want to prep ahead. Let it warm up at room temperature for a bit before scooping so it’s easy to work with, then roll in powdered sugar and bake as directed.

Will the cookies turn out without a stand mixer?

No worries if you don’t have a stand mixer! A handheld electric mixer works wonderfully, or you can use some good old-fashioned elbow grease and a sturdy spoon to cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.

Why didn’t my crinkles show up?

Crinkles might not appear if the dough is too warm or if the cookies aren’t rolled generously in powdered sugar. Try chilling the dough slightly and making sure there’s a thick, even coat of sugar before baking for those perfect crackles.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for that perfect fusion of sunshiney citrus and nutty-sweet coconut, these Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies deliver happiness in every bite. I hope you’ll give them a try and make them a new favorite for gatherings, gifts, or whenever you need a taste of the tropics—straight from your kitchen!