Name: Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 30 cookies
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour; ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; ¾ cup (160g) packed light brown sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups (255g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks; 1 cup (115g) chopped pecans; 1 cup (90g) shredded sweetened coconut

Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies are not just another sweet treat; they are a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that promise to transport your taste buds to a realm of pure bliss with every single bite. Imagine biting into a perfectly baked cookie that offers the rich, comforting depth of premium chocolate, the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, and the exotic, chewy sweetness of shredded coconut. This particular combination, while seemingly simple, brings together ingredients that have long been cherished in dessert making, creating a unique profile that has garnered a passionate following.

While the exact origin of this specific trifecta of flavors in a single cookie might be debated, the individual components—chocolate, pecans, and coconut—each boast a rich culinary heritage, often associated with comfort, celebration, and even tropical escapes. It’s this fusion of familiar warmth with a hint of the exotic that makes these cookies incredibly special.

Why Everyone Loves Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies

People absolutely adore Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies because they offer an unparalleled balance: the indulgent chocolate richness, the earthy nuttiness, and the sweet, moist chewiness that keeps you reaching for just one more. They are perfect for any occasion, from a simple afternoon snack to an elegant dessert platter, always delivering a memorable experience that feels both luxurious and homemade. Prepare to fall in love with this irresistible combination!

Ingredients:

Gathering all your ingredients before you start is one of my favorite tips for smooth baking. It truly makes the entire process of making these delightful Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies so much more enjoyable and less stressful!

For the Dry Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder, I prefer natural cocoa powder for a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt, fine sea salt works beautifully to enhance all the flavors.
For the Wet Ingredients & Sweeteners:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. This is crucial for creaming properly!
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (160g) packed light brown sugar, I find light brown sugar adds a lovely moistness and subtle caramel note.
- 2 large eggs, also at room temperature. This helps them incorporate better into the batter.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, don’t skimp on the good stuff here; it makes a big difference.
For the Irresistible Mix-Ins:
- 1 ½ cups (255g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate chunks. I love a mix of both for varying textures!
- 1 cup (115g) chopped pecans, lightly toasted if you want to intensify their nutty flavor even further.
- 1 cup (90g) shredded sweetened coconut, though unsweetened works too if you prefer less sweetness.

Preparation & Mis en Place

Before we dive into the delicious world of creating our Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies, taking a few minutes to prepare your workspace and ingredients will make the whole process feel like a breeze. Trust me, a little preparation goes a long way!

Preheat Your Oven: First things first, let’s get that oven ready. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for getting that perfect balance of a crispy edge and a chewy center in our cookies. It’s important to preheat thoroughly, as a cold oven can dramatically affect baking time and cookie texture.
Prepare Your Baking Sheets: Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This step is non-negotiable for me! It prevents the cookies from sticking, ensures even baking, and makes cleanup incredibly easy. If you don’t have parchment or silicone mats, you can lightly grease your baking sheets, but I highly recommend the former for superior results.
Measure and Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures that all the leavening agents and flavorings are evenly distributed, which is key for a consistent rise and flavor in every single cookie. Set this bowl aside for now.
Bring Wet Ingredients to Room Temperature: Make sure your unsalted butter and large eggs are at room temperature. If your butter isn’t soft enough, you can cut it into smaller pieces and let it sit out for 15-30 minutes, or gently warm it in the microwave in very short bursts (5-10 seconds) until it yields slightly to pressure but isn’t melted. Room temperature eggs also incorporate more smoothly into the batter, preventing curdling and creating a more homogeneous dough.
Prepare Your Mix-Ins: If you’re using whole pecans, take a moment to chop them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly toast your pecans in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Let them cool completely before adding them to the dough. This simple step truly elevates the nutty notes in your Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies.

Making the Cookie Dough

Now for the fun part – creating the base for our incredible Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies! This is where all the flavors begin to meld into a rich, decadent dough.

Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer (either a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a handheld mixer), beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes until it’s light and creamy. Then, add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Continue beating on medium-high speed for another 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This creaming step is vital! It incorporates air into the butter and sugar, which creates pockets that expand in the oven, giving our cookies that wonderful light and chewy texture. Don’t rush this process!
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here. After the eggs are incorporated, stir in the pure vanilla extract. The mixture might look a little curdled at this point, but don’t worry, it will come together once you add the dry ingredients.
Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredient mixture (flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt) to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. The key here is not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to tough, dense cookies. As soon as you no longer see streaks of dry flour, stop mixing. I usually stop just a touch before everything is fully incorporated and finish mixing by hand.
Fold in the Irresistible Mix-Ins: Remove the bowl from the mixer and, using a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chunks), chopped pecans, and shredded sweetened coconut. Gently fold until these delicious additions are evenly distributed throughout the chocolate cookie dough. This is truly where the magic of our Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies comes alive! Make sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed in.
Optional: Chill the Dough: While not strictly necessary if you’re in a hurry, I highly recommend chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes, or even up to 24 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to deepen and prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie. If chilling for an extended period, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. If chilled, you might need to let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before scooping, as it can get quite firm.

Baking the Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies

Now, let’s turn that glorious dough into perfectly baked, aromatic Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies that will fill your home with an irresistible aroma!

Scoop the Dough: Using a 1.5 to 2-tablespoon cookie scoop (or just two spoons), drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. This spacing is important to allow the cookies to spread without running into each other. If you’re feeling fancy, you can press a few extra chocolate chips, pecan pieces, and coconut flakes into the tops of the dough balls before baking for a picture-perfect finish.
Bake in Batches: Place one baking sheet at a time into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden, but the centers still look slightly soft and gooey. Every oven is different, so keep a close eye on them, especially during your first batch! For a chewier cookie, I always err on the side of underbaking just slightly. The cookies will continue to cook and set as they cool on the baking sheet.
Cool on the Baking Sheet: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5-10 minutes. This is a crucial step! These cookies are delicate when hot, and this cooling period allows them to firm up before you transfer them. Trying to move them too soon will likely result in them falling apart.
Transfer to a Wire Rack: After the initial cooling period on the baking sheet, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing them to cool on a wire rack ensures air circulation all around the cookie, preventing the bottoms from getting soggy and preserving that wonderful texture.
Repeat for Remaining Dough: Continue the baking process with the remaining cookie dough, making sure your baking sheets are cool before placing new dough on them. If your baking sheets are still warm, the dough can start to melt and spread too much before it even hits the oven, leading to thinner cookies. If you only have one or two sheets, wash and cool them between batches if necessary.

Storage and Enjoyment Tips for Your Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies

You’ve done it! You’ve created a batch of truly extraordinary Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies. Now, let’s talk about how to keep them fresh and how to savor every last crumb.

Cool Completely Before Storing: This is a golden rule for any baked good, especially cookies. Ensure your cookies are entirely cool before placing them in an airtight container. If you store warm cookies, condensation will form inside the container, making them soft and potentially soggy. We want to preserve that perfect balance of chewy and tender!
Airtight Storage for Freshness: Once completely cooled, store your Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay wonderfully fresh and delicious for 3-5 days. If you’re stacking them, you can place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Freezing Baked Cookies: These cookies freeze beautifully! Once fully cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a treat, simply thaw them at room temperature for an hour or so, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey delight.
Freezing Cookie Dough: You can also freeze portions of the raw cookie dough. Scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re craving freshly baked Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies, just grab a few frozen dough balls, place them on a prepared baking sheet, and bake from frozen. You might need to add an extra 2-4 minutes to the baking time. This is perfect for having warm cookies on demand!
Serving Suggestions: While these cookies are absolutely perfect on their own, a warm cookie with a tall glass of cold milk is a classic for a reason! They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a cup of hot coffee or tea. The rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and tropical coconut notes make them versatile for any occasion, from an afternoon snack to a decadent dessert.
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Don’t be afraid to personalize your next batch! While the classic Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies recipe is divine, you could try different types of chocolate (milk, dark, white chocolate chips), add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth, or even a dash of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. The possibilities are endless for making them uniquely yours.
The Joy of Sharing: These cookies are so good, you’ll want to share them! Package them up for friends, bring them to a potluck, or just enjoy them with your family. There’s something incredibly satisfying about sharing homemade treats.

Conclusion:

And so, we’ve journeyed through the creation of what I truly believe is not just another cookie, but a culinary experience that will captivate your senses and perhaps even become your new go-to indulgence. These aren’t just any ordinary treats; they are a symphony of flavors and textures designed to delight from the very first glance to the last crumb. Imagine the rich, deep aroma of chocolate swirling with the earthy, comforting scent of toasted pecans and the exotic, sweet whisper of coconut. It’s a combination that speaks to the soul, promising a delightful escape with every bite. The moment you pull these golden-brown beauties from the oven, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about them. The edges are perfectly crisp, giving way to a wonderfully chewy center that holds a treasure trove of gooey chocolate chips, crunchy pecans, and tender flakes of coconut. This isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about experiencing a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss. The thoughtful balance of sweetness, the subtle nuttiness, and the distinctive texture make these Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies truly exceptional. They strike that perfect balance, never overly sweet, allowing each distinct flavor to shine through, harmonizing beautifully to create a memorable and satisfying treat. I promise you, one bite of these incredible cookies and you’ll understand why they are an absolute must-try. They embody everything comforting, delicious, and utterly irresistible in a baked good, making them an unparalleled choice for any occasion, from a quiet evening at home to a festive gathering with loved ones. It’s the kind of cookie that makes you close your eyes and savor every single nuance.

Serving Suggestions:

Now that you’ve mastered the art of baking these delightful cookies, let’s talk about how to truly enjoy them. While they are undeniably perfect straight from the cooling rack, still slightly warm with chocolate oozing, there are so many wonderful ways to elevate your cookie experience. For me, a classic pairing is with a steaming cup of coffee or a tall, frosty glass of cold milk – it’s pure comfort in liquid form. Imagine dunking that perfectly textured cookie, letting it soak up just a hint of creamy goodness before it melts in your mouth. For a more decadent dessert, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The warm cookie and cold ice cream contrast is heavenly, especially if you drizzle a little caramel or hot fudge over the top. They also make fantastic gifts! Arrange a beautiful assortment in a decorative box or jar, tie it with a festive ribbon, and you have a thoughtful, homemade present that anyone would adore. Bring them to a potluck, share them at an office gathering, or simply keep a batch on hand for those moments when only the finest homemade treat will do. Trust me, they disappear quickly wherever they go, making you the undisputed star of any event. They are also incredibly satisfying as a midday pick-me-up, offering that little boost of joy and energy to get you through the afternoon.

Variations to Experiment With:

One of the joys of baking is the freedom to experiment and make a recipe truly your own. While the core recipe for these Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cookies is divine as is, don’t hesitate to play around with different add-ins to discover new favorites. Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks for a more intense cocoa flavor, or go with white chocolate chips for a creamier, sweeter contrast. You could even use a mix of different chocolates to create a multi-layered chocolate experience! If you’re a nut enthusiast, consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds alongside the pecans, or even replacing them entirely for a different textural and flavor profile. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking can also enhance all the flavors, creating a wonderful sweet and salty dynamic that is incredibly addictive and sophisticated. For a festive twist, a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough can add a warm, cozy spice note, especially delightful during cooler months. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a tablespoon of instant espresso powder in the dough can deepen the chocolate flavor without making the cookies taste like coffee, bringing out a richer, more complex profile. Don’t be afraid to let your culinary imagination run wild; these cookies are robust enough to handle a little creative flair and always come out tasting fantastic!

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and embark on this delicious baking adventure. There’s an immense satisfaction that comes from creating something so wonderfully delicious from scratch, and I promise, the aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like the happiest place on earth. Don’t just dream about these cookies – make them a reality! And when you do, please, please, please come back and share your experience with me. I absolutely love hearing from you! Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you try one of the variations? What was your favorite part of the process? Did you share them with loved ones, or perhaps keep them all to yourself (no judgment here, we’ve all been there!). Share your photos on social media and tag me, or simply leave a comment below with your thoughts and any tips you discovered along the way. Your feedback and stories inspire me and help this community of passionate home bakers grow. Let’s celebrate the joy of baking together. I can’t wait to hear all about your delightful batch of homemade treats and how they brought a little extra sweetness into your day!