Washboard Cookies

Washboard Cookies are sweet, lightly crisp coconut cookies with a mellow flavor that makes them perfect alongside ice cream or a warm cup of coffee. They’re simple to prepare and feature a rich mix of vanilla, coconut, and almond extracts for a fragrant, irresistible aroma. The shredded coconut adds texture without overwhelming sweetness, and the dough is sturdy enough to customize with chocolate chips, nuts, or caramel pieces if you like. These classic cookies bake up beautifully golden and stay delicious for days.

Ingredients

• 1/2 stick butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for topping
• 1 egg
• 1/8 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Directions

1. Cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together in a large bowl.
2. Mix in egg, water, vanilla, coconut extract, and almond extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and coconut.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing between additions.
5. Refrigerate dough 60–90 minutes.
6. Preheat oven to 400°F and line baking sheets with parchment.
7. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, place 2 inches apart, and flatten with a fork.
8. Sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar.
9. Bake 8–10 minutes, until undersides are golden.
10. Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 60 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 85 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 24 cookies

Tips

• Chill the dough fully — it helps the cookies keep their shape and prevents overspreading.
• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container; they stay fresh and chewy for several days.

FAQ

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips?
Yes—add up to 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, nuts, or caramel bits.

Can I make the dough ahead?
Absolutely—refrigerate up to 24 hours or freeze dough balls for later baking.

Why flatten with a fork?
It helps them bake evenly and gives the signature “washboard” texture.

Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but the cookies will be slightly less sweet—adjust sugar if desired.

How do I keep them soft?
Avoid overbaking and store with a small piece of bread or a marshmallow to maintain moisture.