These classic Santa’s Whiskers Cookies are buttery, tender, and coated in sweet shredded coconut, with colorful red and green candied cherries in every bite. They’re a festive Christmas treat that looks beautiful on holiday dessert platters and makes a lovely homemade gift.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (120 g) red and green candied cherries, finely chopped
- 1 cup (80 g) sweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually stir in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Add the cherries: Fold in the chopped red and green candied cherries until evenly distributed.
- Shape the dough: Divide the dough into two logs, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Coat with coconut: Spread the shredded coconut on a plate. Unwrap the chilled dough logs and roll them in the coconut, pressing gently so it sticks.
- Slice the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the logs into ¼-inch-thick slices and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Chill the dough thoroughly to make slicing easier.
- Pat the chopped cherries dry if they are especially moist.
- Press extra coconut onto the outside for a beautiful snowy appearance.
- Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Chilling Time: 2 hours Cook Time: 12–15 minutes Servings: About 30 cookies
These Santa’s Whiskers Cookies are buttery, chewy, coconut-covered, and filled with festive cherry flavor—the perfect addition to your Christmas cookie collection!
