These “Kookie Cookies” bring a delightful fusion of buttery pastry and a candy-like coconut topping, resulting in a nostalgic treat reminiscent of vintage bake sales and family gatherings. The simple crust serves as the perfect base for a chewy, sweet mixture of coconut, walnuts, and maraschino cherries. The cookies are finished with a glossy layer of melted chocolate, making them both festive and satisfying. Whether enjoyed at holiday parties or as an afternoon indulgence, these cookies showcase the charming creativity of mid-century American baking.
Ingredients
Base Layer:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter
- 6 tbsp 4x sugar
Topping:
- 4 eggs (slightly beaten)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup coconut (shredded )
- 1½ cup walnuts (chopped )
- 1 cup maraschino cherries (chopped )
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
- Blend together flour, butter, and 4x sugar.
- Press evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Topping
- In a mixing bowl, beat eggs slightly.
- Add sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Mix in vanilla, coconut, walnuts, and cherries.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Spread the topping evenly over the pre-baked crust.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes at 350°F.
Step 4: Finish and Cool
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars or squares.
Tips
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla to the base layer for extra aroma.
- Substitute chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch in the topping.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate once cooled for a richer finish.
- Use parchment for easier removal from the pan.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the topping for warmth.
- Swap half the coconut for crushed cornflakes for a crisp texture.
- If the topping seems too loose, add 1 to 2 extra tablespoons of flour.
- Cool fully before slicing to keep clean edges.
- For a festive version, add chopped maraschino cherries.
Nutrition
Calories: 165kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2.5gFat: 7.5gSaturated Fat: 4.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.9gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 27mgSodium: 75mgPotassium: 55mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 220IUCalcium: 22mgIron: 0.8mg
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