Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Coconut Lime Swig Cookies are a tropical twist on the classic frosted sugar cookie. With a soft, thick cookie base flavored with coconut and lime, and topped with a tangy lime cream cheese frosting, these cookies are vibrant, refreshing, and perfectly sweet. Ideal for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you want a burst of citrusy goodness, they’re a fun and flavorful treat.
ingredients
Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
For the cookies:
all-purpose flour
baking soda
baking powder
salt
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
coconut extract
lime zest
sour cream
eggs
For the frosting:
cream cheese (softened)
butter (softened)
powdered sugar
lime juice
lime zest
coconut extract
milk or cream (as needed for consistency)
directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs, sour cream, coconut extract, and lime zest, mixing until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
Scoop dough into balls and place on prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, just until edges are set. Do not overbake.
Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar, lime juice, zest, and coconut extract. Mix until creamy, adding milk as needed for spreadable consistency.
Frost cooled cookies and garnish with extra lime zest if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Cooling and frosting time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Variations
Add shredded coconut to the dough or sprinkle on top of frosting.
Use key lime juice for a sharper citrus flavor.
Swap coconut extract with vanilla for a milder taste.
Make into sandwich cookies with frosting in the middle.
Chill the dough before baking for a thicker cookie.
storage/reheating
Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Do not microwave frosted cookies—frosting may melt.
FAQs
What makes Swig cookies unique?
They’re thick, soft sugar cookies traditionally served chilled with rich frosting.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice and zest provide the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
Do I have to chill the dough?
No, but chilling can help control spreading if needed.
Is the coconut flavor strong?
It’s subtle and balances well with the lime—adjust extract to taste.
Can I make the frosting ahead?
Yes, refrigerate and stir before using. Let it soften at room temp if too firm.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.
What type of coconut extract should I use?
Imitation works fine, but pure extract offers a cleaner flavor.
Can I dye the frosting?
Yes, add a drop of green food coloring for a fun twist.
Can I use cream of tartar in the dough?
It’s not needed, but can add slight chew if preferred.
Can I make these as bars?
Yes, press dough into a baking pan and adjust baking time.
Conclusion
Coconut Lime Swig Cookies are a tropical, tangy take on a classic favorite—soft, chewy, and topped with luscious lime frosting. Easy to make and full of refreshing flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion where you want to bring a little sunshine to the table. One bite and you’ll be hooked on this bright, citrusy delight.
PrintCoconut Lime Swig Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes (+ optional chilling)
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert/Cookie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Coconut Lime Swig Cookies are soft, buttery sugar cookies flavored with sweet coconut and bright lime—adapted from the cult‑favorite Swig family recipe for a tropical twist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lime zest (about 2 limes)
- 2 3/4 cups all‑purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- Extra powdered sugar & lime zest, for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and lime zest.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing just until combined. Fold in shredded coconut.
- In a small bowl, combine extra powdered sugar and a bit of lime zest for rolling.
- Scoop dough into 1.5‑inch balls and roll in the sugar‑zest mixture.
- Place on prepared sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are set but centers are soft.
- Let cookies rest on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For extra coconut flavor, toast the shredded coconut lightly before adding.
- Chill dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Make a glaze by mixing lime juice with powdered sugar and drizzle over cooled cookies, if desired.