Lemon Coconut Balls are a charming and nostalgic treat often found in vintage American kitchens. This recipe, handwritten on a note from the mid-20th century, reflects a classic baking tradition that blends citrus brightness with tropical coconut sweetness. Originating from a time when home baking was central to gatherings and holidays, these cookies showcase simple pantry ingredients, brought together with care and precision. Their delicate texture and subtle tartness make them a favorite for tea parties, holidays, or just a comforting homemade dessert. With roots in traditional American home baking, they offer a timeless combination of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- ⅔ cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (sifted )
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp cream of tartar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp vanilla
- 3½ oz coconut flakes (coconut flakes)
Instructions
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Egg
- Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add the sifted dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with lemon juice and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
- Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator until firm enough to handle, about 1 hour.
Step 6: Shape and Coat
- Form chilled dough into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball in coconut flakes until fully coated.
Step 7: Bake
- Place the coconut-covered balls on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until delicately browned.
Tips
- For extra lemon flavor, add a bit of lemon zest to the dough.
- If you prefer toasted coconut, toast it slightly before rolling the dough.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a spiced variation.
- Substitute lime juice for a tropical twist.
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 1.3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 45mgPotassium: 25mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 90IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.3mg
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