Pina Colada Cookies Recipe

If you adore tropical flavors and have a sweet tooth that’s always ready for something a little different, this Pina Colada Cookies Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that bursts with the luscious taste of pineapple and the creamy richness of coconut, all with a delicate rum-infused glaze that brings that classic pina colada vibe to life. These cookies are a perfect blend of fruity freshness and comforting sweetness, taking you straight to a sunny beachside escape with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but each plays a vital role in delivering the authentic pina colada flavor and irresistibly chewy texture. From the sweetened shredded coconut which adds that signature tropical crunch, to the crushed pineapple infusing juicy tropical notes, all components come together beautifully.

• 2 cups flour: The sturdy base that lends structure and a tender crumb to the cookies.
• ½ cup softened butter: Provides richness and moisture, nothing beats buttery softness in a cookie.
• ¾ cup sugar: For the perfect touch of sweetness that balances the tangy pineapple.
• ½ cup shredded coconut (sweetened): Adds texture, coconut flavor, and a tropical vibe that screams island paradise.
• 1 egg: Binds everything together and keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Deepens the flavors, adding warmth and complexity.
• ¼ tsp baking powder: Helps dough rise slightly for a tender bite.
• ¼ tsp baking soda: Adds lightness and spread control.
• ¼ tsp salt: Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
• 2 Tbsp crushed pineapple: Bursts of fresh, juicy tropical flavor that defines these cookies.
• 2 Tbsp coconut milk: Enriches dough with creamy coconut undertones.
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar: Used for the luscious glaze that ties the cookie’s flavors together.
• 1 Tbsp coconut milk (for glaze): Creates that smooth, tropical glaze texture.
• 1 tsp rum: Just enough rum essence to evoke pina colada without overpowering.

How to Make Pina Colada Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature ensures the cookies bake evenly, developing a soft center with lightly golden edges perfect for that ideal bite.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients except the shredded coconut — that means the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents and flavor distribute uniformly in the dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar, Then Add Wet Ingredients

Using a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. Then, whisk in the egg, vanilla extract, crushed pineapple, and coconut milk. Each ingredient layers in moisture and tropical flavor, which are key to the cookie’s unique character.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, gently stirring until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix carefully to keep them tender and chewy.

Step 5: Stir in Shredded Coconut

Fold in the sweetened shredded coconut, the element that adds that unmistakable tropical texture and boosts coconut flavor throughout every bite.

Step 6: Shape and Arrange Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This size keeps the cookies bite-sized and perfectly chewy.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them — they should be just beginning to turn golden at the edges while remaining soft in the center.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling helps set their tender texture before glazing.

Step 9: Prepare the Pina Colada Inspired Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, coconut milk, and rum until you get a smooth, creamy glaze. This glaze is the magic touch, giving that authentic pina colada finish with a subtle kick.

Step 10: Glaze and Garnish

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies, then sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top if you want a bit more texture and that gorgeous tropical look.

How to Serve Pina Colada Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your presentation by adding a few toasted coconut flakes or a small wedge of dried pineapple beside the cookies. These little extras underscore the island vibes and add a lovely crunch contrast to the soft cookies.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a chilled glass of coconut milk or pineapple juice for a fun tropical snack experience. These cookies also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruity sorbet to intensify that vacation feeling at home.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking several cookies and tying them with a colorful ribbon for a gift-worthy treat, or arrange them on a platter with fresh tropical fruits like mango or kiwi to create an eye-catching dessert spread everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Pina Colada Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This will preserve their chewy texture while keeping the flavors fresh and vibrant.

Freezing

To enjoy these tropical treats later, freeze the unglazed cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then stack them with parchment paper in between inside a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy frozen cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature. If you want to refresh that fresh-baked warmth, pop them in a 300-degree oven for 5-7 minutes before glazing.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed canned pineapple?

Absolutely! Just make sure to finely chop and drain the fresh pineapple well to avoid adding too much moisture to the cookie dough, which could affect texture.

Is it okay to skip the rum in the glaze?

Yes, if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum or substitute with a splash of vanilla extract. The cookies will still have delightful pina colada flavor.

Can these cookies be made vegan?

With a few swaps, yes! Use vegan butter and replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce, but keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but still tasty.

Why does the recipe call for both baking powder and baking soda?

Using both helps balance the acidity from pineapple and achieve the perfect rise and softness in the cookies without them becoming cakey.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Chilling the dough briefly before baking and ensuring you use the right amount of flour will keep the cookies nicely shaped and chewy.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly joyful about baking this Pina Colada Cookies Recipe and sharing it with friends or family. The harmonious blend of tropical pineapple, creamy coconut, and a touch of rum glaze comes together to create a cookie that’s anything but ordinary. If you’re craving a sweet escape or simply want an exciting new cookie to brighten your day, these are exactly what you need. Trust me, once you try them, this recipe will become a beloved favorite you’ll return to over and over!

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