Lemon Coconut Heaven Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Base

01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
03 - 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed

→ Lemon Coconut Filling

04 - 3 large eggs
05 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
06 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
07 - 1/2 tsp baking powder
08 - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
09 - 1/4 cup shredded coconut, plus extra for topping
10 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
02 - Form the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, then flatten each ball slightly with your palm before placing it on the baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Set the cookies aside to cool completely.
03 - While the cookies are cooling, prepare the creamy filling. In a bowl, whisk 3 large eggs and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until smooth. Add 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup shredded coconut, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (if using). Stir until well combined.
04 - Transfer the lemon mixture to a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook until the filling thickens into a custard-like consistency, then remove it from the heat and let it cool.
05 - Once the filling has cooled, spoon a dollop onto the flat side of a cooled cookie, then place another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top for a festive finish.

# Notes:

01 - Use chilled butter to achieve a crumbly texture in the cookie base, making it the perfect foundation for the filling.
02 - To bring out the most flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and add a dash of vanilla for extra warmth.
03 - You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, and if you're looking to cut back on sugar, substitute some of the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or coconut sugar for a unique twist.