Quick Answer
These Birds Nest Cookies are a delightful blend of coconut and chocolate, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner, and in my bustling New York kitchen, happiness often smells of melted chocolate and toasted coconut. I’ve been testing recipes that bring warmth and cheer to any gathering, and one delightful treat that has become a staple is these Birds Nest Cookies. With their delicate shape and sweet surprise in the center, they evoke a sense of nostalgia while adding a festive touch to any cookie platter.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet, toasty coconut combined with rich chocolate creates a delightful flavor experience.
- The charming nest shape adds a festive touch to your holiday cookie platter.
- Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these cookies easy to bake, even for beginners.
- They can be customized with various toppings to fit any celebration.
- These cookies are perfect for gift-giving or sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Birds Nest Cookies:
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
Optional Toppings
- Peanuts, M&Ms, or jellybeans for decoration
How to Make Birds Nest Cookies (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create your own delightful Birds Nest Cookies.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). The anticipation builds as I smell that warm air begin to circulate in my kitchen.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the shredded coconut, granulated sugar, egg whites, vanilla extract, and almond extract. As I mix, I love the texture of the coarse coconut and the way the sugar granules sparkle.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
On a parchment-lined baking sheet, use a tablespoon to scoop the mixture, forming small mounds. Press a deep indentation into the center of each mound with your thumb (or the back of a spoon), creating a nest shape. Watching these little nests take form is like sculpting edible art!
Step 4: Bake
Pop those beauties into the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The aroma wafting through my kitchen is simply heavenly—coconut toasting and sugar caramelizing.
Step 5: Add Chocolate
Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool for a few minutes. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into the center of each cookie nest, letting it beautifully drip down the sides.
Step 6: Decorate (Optional)
If desired, you can top your nests with peanuts, M&Ms, or jellybeans for a festive pop of color and crunch. I enjoy the contrast and find it makes these cookies even more visually appealing for holiday gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Unsweetened Coconut: This can lead to a dry texture and less sweetness overall. Opt for sweetened shredded coconut for the best flavor.
- Skipping the Indentation: If you don’t create a deep enough well in the center, there won’t be enough space for the chocolate to sit, and the cookies may lose their signature look.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be golden on the edges but remain soft in the center. You want them to have that slight jiggle when they come out of the oven.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a twist on flavor, try swapping out the almond extract with a different extract or flavored oil, like orange or peppermint, for the holiday season.
- If you want a richer chocolate experience, drizzle additional melted chocolate over the cookies once they’ve set.
- These cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for a quick holiday treat!
Variations
- Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Incorporate chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) into the cookie mixture for added crunch.
- Replace the coconut with oats for a different texture.
- Substitute the chocolate with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a unique taste.
How to Serve
- Arrange on a festive platter for holiday gatherings.
- Pair with a warm cup of cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Gift them in a jar tied with a ribbon for a homemade holiday present.
- Add them to a dessert table alongside other holiday sweets.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: These cookies can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, gentle reheating in the oven can restore some softness.
- Freezing: These cookies can be frozen for a quick holiday treat; store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While developing this recipe, I realized how versatile these cookies can be based on the toppings you choose. It’s a simple, joyful way to celebrate the season’s flavors and creativity in baking. Embrace the fun and let your imagination lead the way!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 24 cookies · Serving Size: 1 cookie
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~120 calories · 1g protein · 15g carbs · 6g fat
Delicious Birds Nest Cookies for the Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the shredded coconut, granulated sugar, egg whites, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- On a parchment-lined baking sheet, use a tablespoon to scoop the mixture, forming small mounds. Press a deep indentation into the center of each mound with your thumb.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool for a few minutes. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into the center of each cookie nest.
- If desired, top your nests with peanuts, M&Ms, or jellybeans for decoration.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut for Birds Nest Cookies?
It’s best to avoid unsweetened coconut, as it can lead to a dry texture and less sweetness. Opt for sweetened shredded coconut for the best flavor.
How can I make my Birds Nest Cookies more festive?
You can add a pop of color by decorating the nests with peanuts, M&Ms, or jellybeans. These toppings not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful crunch!
Can I store Birds Nest Cookies?
Yes! Once completely cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for a quick holiday treat.
