Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies Your New Favorite Treat

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

Picture this: you re lounging on a cozy afternoon with a warm cup of tea, and the enticing aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through your home. That s the magic of these Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies. They re so easy and delightful that you ll wonder how something so delicious can start from just a handful of simple ingredients.

I discovered this recipe on a rare quiet night when the world outside felt distant, and my kitchen suddenly transformed into a place of inspiration. As I mixed the rich butter with sugar and added a dash of vanilla, I could already envision the smiles from friends and family when these treats made their grand entrance at our next gathering. With a crispy edge and a tender, buttery center packed with sweetened coconut, they were bound to become a new favorite.

The best part? Preparing the dough in advance means you can whip these up whenever the craving strikes. So, roll up your sleeves, and let s create these delightful cookies that promise comfort with every bite!

Why you ll love Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies?

Irresistible flavors: The delightful combination of butter, sugar, and sweetened coconut makes each bite a taste of paradise.
Convenience at its finest: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and slice it fresh whenever the cookie craving hits!
Perfect for sharing: These cookies are a surefire hit at gatherings, turning casual meetings into delightful celebrations.
Simple technique: Easy to follow steps mean even novice bakers will impress their loved ones.
Versatile snack: Enjoy them with tea, coffee, or even as a standalone treat it s the ideal cookie for any occasion!

Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

Here s everything you need to make those irresistible cookies!

For the Dough

• 1 cup butter, softened the key to rich, delightful flavor that blends beautifully.
• 3/4 cup sugar adds the perfect amount of sweetness without overpowering the coconut.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract a splash of this elevates the overall flavor profile.
• 1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour provides structure, ensuring your cookies hold their shape during baking.
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut this is what transforms your cookies into the tropical treat everyone will adore!

For Baking

• Ungreased baking sheets use these to give your cookies room to spread while baking to golden perfection!

Get ready to experience the joy of baking these Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies that will surely become your new favorite treat!

How to Make Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies

1. Cream together: In a large bowl, start by creaming the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes. This creates a base that s rich and full of flavor.
2. Beat in vanilla: Mix in the teaspoon of vanilla extract, whisking gently to incorporate it into the creamed mixture. This will enhance the overall aroma and taste of your cookies.
3. Add flour: Gradually beat in the all-purpose flour until fully combined, creating a smooth, dough-like consistency.
4. Stir in coconut: Gently fold in the sweetened shredded coconut, ensuring it s well distributed throughout the dough for that delightful tropical flavor.
5. Shape the dough: Using a sheet of waxed paper, shape the dough into a rectangle measuring about 12x3x1 inches. Wrap it securely and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for the best results.
6. Preheat oven: Before baking, preheat your oven to 300 °F this will ensure an even bake, leading to perfectly golden edges.
7. Slice the dough: Unwrap the chilled dough and cut it crosswise into 1/4-inch slices. Place them about 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven until the edges are light golden, approximately 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking!
9. Cool off: Let the cookies cool on the pans for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies are perfect for busy schedules! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply shaping it into a rectangle and wrapping it tightly in waxed paper before refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring your cookies are just as delicious when you re ready to bake. If you need even more flexibility, the formed dough can be frozen for up to 3 months just wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you re ready to enjoy, slice the dough and bake as directed; it s the perfect way to have fresh cookies in no time, without the fuss!

Storage Tips for Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they are in a tightly sealed container to avoid moisture.

Freezer: Freeze the uncooked dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When you re ready to bake, simply slice and bake from frozen without thawing!

Reheating: If you want to enjoy them warm, pop the cookies in a preheated oven at 300 °F for a few minutes until they are warmed through, bringing back that heavenly aroma of freshly baked Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies.

Expert Tips for Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies

• Perfect Butter: Make sure your butter is softened, but not melted. This helps achieve a creamy texture that blends well with sugar for fluffy cookies.
• Chill Time Matters: Don t rush the refrigeration! Allowing the dough to chill for at least 3 hours ensures easier slicing and better flavor development in your Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies.
• Watch the Bake: Timing is crucial; keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. If they re in the oven for too long, they can become overly crunchy instead of tender and buttery.
• Slicing Technique: Use a sharp knife for even slices. This ensures each cookie bakes uniformly, delivering consistent texture and deliciousness with every bite!
• Storage Tips: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They ll last for about a week but they re so delightful they might disappear faster!

What to Serve with Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies?

Imagine the sweet aroma of coconut cookies drifting through your home while you create the perfect spread of delightful pairings for a cozy gathering.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing contrast to the sweet, rich flavor of the cookies and bring balance to your dessert table.
• Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, cold creaminess pairs beautifully with the warmth of the cookies, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Chai or Earl Grey Tea: The aromatic spices and citrus notes of this tea perfectly complement the buttery coconut flavors, making each sip and bite a warm hug.
• Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Drizzling a warm, rich chocolate dip over the cookies introduces a new layer of decadence to your tropical treat, elevating it to new heights.
• Toasted Coconut Topping: Sprinkle some toast flakes over your cookies for an incredible crunchy texture and an extra burst of coconut flavor that s utterly irresistible.
• Lemon Curd: The tangy, vibrant flavor of lemon curd brightens the sweetness of the coconut cookies, offering a refreshing zing that makes every bite exciting and new.
• Coconut Milk Latte: A creamy latte made with steamed coconut milk enhances the tropical theme and makes your afternoon brightness feel like a dreamy vacation.
• Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These delightful berries add elegance to your spread and provide a fresh burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the buttery cookies.

Mix and match these suggestions to create a cozy dessert experience that will have everyone coming back for more!

Variations & Substitutions for Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own; the possibilities are delightful!

• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it can be used for baking. Your cookies will still be deliciously tender!

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter or coconut oil to replace the butter. This keeps the rich flavor while accommodating dairy-free diets.

• Add Nuts: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped macadamia nuts or almonds for a delightful crunch. The additional texture complements the coconut beautifully.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle over cooled cookies for an extra layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with coconut.

• Coconut Cream Filling: Make a simple coconut cream with coconut milk and powdered sugar to sandwich between two cookies. This dreamy variation is a tropical indulgence.

• Zest it Up: Add a teaspoon of lime or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus twist. It brightens the flavor and pairs wonderfully with coconut.

• Spice it Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth to your cookies. Just a hint brings out the sweetness without overpowering the coconut.

• Heat it Up: Sprinkle in a dash of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. It s a unique twist that adventurous eaters will love!

Get ready to impress your family and friends with personalized versions of these terrific cookies!

Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature, which means it should easily hold an indentation but not be melted. For sugar, any granulated variety works, but using good quality sugar brings out the cookies flavor. The sweetened shredded coconut should be fresh, with no signs of moisture or dark spots to ensure maximum flavor and texture.

How should I store my Slice & Bake Coconut Shortbread Cookies?
You can store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week perfect for daily snacking! If you re looking for longer storage, pop them in the fridge, where they ll stay fresh for about two weeks. Just ensure they re well sealed to avoid any moisture or odors from other foods.

Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Absolutely! Freezing the uncooked dough is a great option. First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or resealable bag. The dough can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you re ready to bake, simply slice the dough straight from the freezer and bake (you won t need to thaw it!). This way, you can indulge in fresh cookies any time the craving hits!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread excessively, it could stem from butter being too soft or too much flour not being incorporated. Make sure to properly chill the dough for at least 3 hours, as this firms up the butter and controls spreading. For next time, consider placing the dough in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes after cutting into slices, just before baking this additional chill can help maintain their shape.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
These cookies contain gluten and dairy, making them unsuitable for those with allergies to wheat or lactose intolerance. For a gluten-free option, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also experiment with dairy-free butter alternatives to make a dairy-free version! Just note that this might slightly alter the texture and flavor.

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead?
I often recommend using sweetened coconut for these cookies to achieve the right balance of sweetness and tropical flavor. However, if you prefer unsweetened coconut, you can absolutely use that! Just add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the dough to adjust the sweetness. Additionally, keep an eye on the baking time, as unsweetened coconut can toast up differently. Enjoy your baking adventure!