Cocoanut Cookies. Mrs. A. A. Lucas. Recipe

Cocoanut cookies have long been a beloved treat enjoyed by people around the world. This delectable recipe has a history that traces back to Mrs. A. A. Lucas, who was known for her exceptional baking skills. Her recipe features a delightful combination of sugar, butter, sour cream, eggs, and grated or desiccated coconut. These ingredients come together to create a soft and flavorful cookie that is simply irresistible.

To begin, gather two cups of sugar, one cup of butter, one-half cup of sour cream, one-fourth teaspoon of soda, and two eggs. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, add the sour cream and mix until well combined. Next, stir in the soda and gradually add the eggs, incorporating them one at a time.

Once the wet ingredients are thoroughly mixed, gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. It is important to roll the dough thin to achieve the desired texture for these cookies. Preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Take small portions of the dough and roll them out on a lightly floured surface. Use a cookie cutter of your choice to cut out shapes or simply shape the dough into small rounds. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for a quick amount of time, until they are golden brown.

While the cookies are baking, you can prepare a delicious icing to complement the cocoanut flavor. In a separate bowl, beat four egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add one pound of sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Finally, stir in as much grated or desiccated coconut as you desire.

Once the cookies are fully baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely. When they're cooled, generously spread the coconut icing on top of each cookie, ensuring that the sweet and fluffy mixture is evenly distributed. The final touch of grated or desiccated coconut adds an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.

Now that you have mastered the delightful recipe for cocoanut cookies, here are a few fun facts about this delectable treat. Cocoanut cookies gained popularity in the late 19th century and early 20th century when coconuts became more accessible due to improved transportation networks. Interestingly, the term "cocoanut" was commonly used instead of "coconut" during that time, and this spelling was adopted by Mrs. A. A. Lucas in her famous recipe.

These cookies have a versatile nature, allowing for various adaptations to suit individual tastes. You can experiment with different types of flours, add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporate other ingredients such as chocolate chips or dried fruits. The possibilities are endless, and you can personalize this classic recipe to create your own signature cocoanut cookies.

If you enjoy the tropical flavors of coconut, you might also want to explore other recipes that incorporate this delicious ingredient. Coconut macaroons, a delightful confection made with shredded coconut and egg whites, are a popular choice. Additionally, coconut bars, coconut cream pie, and coconut squares are just a few examples of other mouthwatering treats that highlight the exotic taste of coconut.

In conclusion, Mrs. A. A. Lucas's cocoanut cookie recipe is a true gem that has stood the test of time. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful combination of soft and buttery cookies topped with a sweet and coconutty icing. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or an accompaniment to your favorite hot beverage, cocoanut cookies are sure to bring joy to all who indulge in their delectable goodness.