Cocos Sable

Background and History of Cocos Sable

The Cocos Sable is a delightful French shortbread cookie that has its origins in the rich culinary tradition of France. The name "sable" comes from the French word for "sand," which refers to the sandy texture of these buttery cookies. The coconut infusion in this classic recipe adds an exotic twist, making it a popular choice for both traditional and modern dessert tables around the world. Dating back to the 19th century, sables were originally made in Normandy, a region renowned for its high-quality butter. The introduction of coconut likely came about as French bakers sought to incorporate novel flavors into beloved classics.

Ingredients

• Coconut - 1 cup, shredded
• Unsalted Butter - 1/2 cup, softened
• Sugar - 1/2 cup
• All-purpose Flour - 1 cup
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
• Baking Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Egg - 1 large

Cooking Time and Preparation

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking once the dough is prepared.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough begins to form.
6. Fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Cooking Process

1. Shape tablespoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for spreading during baking.
2. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand or the back of a spoon.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
4. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoying Your Cocos Sable

The Cocos Sable is best enjoyed fresh with a hot beverage such as tea or coffee, allowing you to savor the rich flavors and contrasts between the crisp exterior and the tender, buttery interior. These cookies also pair wonderfully with tropical fruits such as mangoes or pineapples, which highlight the delicate sweetness of the coconut.

For storage, place the cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If serving at an event or gathering, consider presenting them on a decorative platter to enhance their visual appeal.