Soft, tangy, and chewy cookies with a bright lemon flavor, creamy cheesecake texture from cream cheese, and a tropical twist from shredded coconut.

½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened

4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

Zest of 1 large lemon

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour

½ tsp baking powder

¼ tsp baking soda

¼ tsp salt

¾ cup shredded sweetened coconut

Optional: Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Optional: Extra shredded coconut (for rolling or sprinkling)

Optional: Lemon glaze drizzle (powdered sugar + lemon juice)

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In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add the sugar, egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Beat until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Fold in the shredded sweetened coconut.
Cover the dough and chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Form dough into balls using a tablespoon or cookie scoop. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Optional: Roll the dough balls in extra coconut or powdered sugar for added flavor and texture.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still soft.
Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with lemon glaze.

Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.

Add ½ tsp lemon extract for a stronger lemon flavor.

Try adding a small spoonful of lemon curd to the center before baking for thumbprint-style cookies.

Press extra shredded coconut on top of the cookies before baking for added texture.

Store at room temperature for 3 days, refrigerated for up to 5 days, or freeze baked or unbaked.