Vegan Papaya Coconut Sugar Cookies (Print Version)

Soft, chewy tropical cookies with papaya and coconut, naturally sweetened for a wholesome treat.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 tsp baking powder
03 - 1/2 tsp baking soda
04 - 1/4 tsp salt

→ Wet Ingredients

05 - 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
06 - 3/4 cup coconut sugar
07 - 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
08 - 2 tsp vanilla extract

→ Fruits & Add-Ins

09 - 1/2 cup dried papaya, finely diced
10 - 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
11 - 2 tbsp plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)

# Step-by-step Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined.
03 - In a large bowl, combine the melted coconut oil and coconut sugar. Mix well until fully incorporated, then stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
05 - Fold in the diced dried papaya and shredded coconut. If the dough appears too crumbly, add plant-based milk one tablespoon at a time until it holds together properly.
06 - Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving approximately 2 inches of space between each cookie.
07 - Gently flatten each cookie with your fingers or the back of a spoon. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden.
08 - Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The edges get perfectly crispy while centers stay soft and chewy
  • Coconut sugar adds a caramel depth that regular sugar cannot match
  • Dried papaya brings natural sweetness and tropical brightness
02 -
  • Coconut oil solidifies at room temperature so keep your dough warm while working with it
  • The cookies continue cooking on the hot baking sheet so remove them when edges are just golden
  • Dried papaya can vary in sweetness so taste a piece before adding and adjust if needed
03 -
  • Let your melted coconut oil cool slightly before mixing to avoid activating the leavening too early
  • Room temperature ingredients combine more smoothly and prevent the coconut oil from seizing up

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