Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies: Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings tropical flavors straight to your kitchen, these Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect choice. With a buttery cookie base, a golden coconut coating, and a sweet pineapple jam center, these cookies are as visually appealing as they are delicious. They’re quick to make, requiring only 30 minutes from start to finish, making them ideal for last-minute desserts, afternoon snacks, or holiday cookie trays.

The combination of sweet coconut and tangy pineapple gives these cookies a vibrant, tropical flavor reminiscent of a Hawaiian vacation. The thumbprint technique creates a delightful pocket for jam, adding a burst of fruity sweetness with every bite. These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family or gifting during festive occasions.

This article will guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, tips for perfect cookies, variations, serving suggestions, and frequently asked questions, ensuring a simple yet impressive baking experience.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it combines simple ingredients and an easy technique that produces flavorful cookies without fuss. The butter and sugar create a rich, tender cookie dough that holds its shape well, while the shredded coconut adds texture and subtle sweetness. Pineapple jam fills the thumbprint indentation, providing a soft, fruity center that complements the buttery cookie perfectly.

By keeping the dough chilled slightly and using the thumbprint technique, you ensure a uniform shape and consistent bake. The result is a cookie that’s crisp on the edges, soft in the center, and packed with tropical flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Provides a rich, tender cookie base.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with texture.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the cookies.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor and aroma.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut – Adds tropical texture and flavor.
• 1/2 cup pineapple jam or preserves – Creates a fruity, tangy center.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer. Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated. Gradually mix in all-purpose flour and salt until a smooth dough forms.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, press an indentation into the center of each cookie to hold the jam.

Step 4: Coat with Coconut
Lightly press the outside of each cookie into sweetened shredded coconut, ensuring the coconut adheres to the cookie edges while leaving the thumbprint intact.

Step 5: Fill the Thumbprint
Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon of pineapple jam into each indentation. Avoid overfilling to prevent spilling during baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, and the coconut is toasted. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies should remain tender in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve once fully cooled, or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Tips for Perfect Thumbprint Cookies

• Use room-temperature butter: This ensures the dough creams properly and results in a tender cookie.
• Keep cookies uniform in size: Use a cookie scoop to create evenly sized balls for consistent baking.
• Avoid overfilling jam: Too much jam can spread and make the cookies sticky.
• Toast the coconut lightly: For extra flavor, lightly toast the shredded coconut in a dry pan or oven before pressing it onto the cookies.
• Chill the dough if needed: If the dough is too soft, chill for 10–15 minutes to make shaping easier.

Flavor Variations

• Tropical Mix: Replace pineapple jam with mango or passionfruit preserves for a different fruity twist.
• Chocolate Delight: Add a small chocolate piece in the center along with the jam for a rich combination.
• Nutty Coconut: Mix finely chopped macadamia nuts into the shredded coconut for extra crunch and tropical flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lime or orange zest to the dough for a fresh, zesty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Add to a holiday cookie tray or dessert platter for a tropical touch.
• Pack in small gift boxes or jars for friends and family as a homemade treat.
• Enjoy as a light dessert after a summer meal for a refreshing bite.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough and shape the cookies in advance, keeping them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To refresh slightly, warm them in the oven for 2–3 minutes.

Freezing: Cookie dough balls can be frozen before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours, then bake as instructed.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per cookie)

Calories: 120
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 9g

Values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but the cookies will be less sweet. You may want to increase the sugar slightly in the dough.

Can I use store-bought pineapple preserves?
Absolutely. Any good-quality pineapple jam or preserves works well for the filling.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Baking time may need slight adjustment.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape the cookies and refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

What’s the best way to store them?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Thumbprint Cookies are a simple yet delightful treat that captures the essence of tropical flavors. The buttery, tender cookies with a crisp coconut coating and sweet pineapple center are perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive gatherings.

Print

With minimal ingredients, straightforward preparation, and versatile serving options, these cookies are ideal for bakers of all skill levels. They offer a bright, tropical twist on a classic thumbprint cookie and are sure to become a favorite in your household. Their 30-minute preparation time makes them accessible for last-minute desserts while still being impressive and delicious.