Coconut Drops

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated fresh coconut (or unsweetened shredded coconut)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup milk (or enough to bring the dough together)
• 1/4 cup raisins or currants (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped dried fruit (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine the grated coconut, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and salt. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

3. Add Wet Ingredients:

   • Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
   • Gradually add the milk, a little at a time, until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough. You want the dough to be firm enough to hold its shape when dropped onto the baking sheet but not too dry.

4. Add Optional Ingredients:

   • If using, fold in the raisins or currants and chopped dried fruit.

5. Shape the Drops:

   • Use a tablespoon to drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each drop as they will spread slightly.

6. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges of the Coconut Drops are golden brown. The centers should still be soft.

7. Cool and Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and let the Coconut Drops cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Coconut Drops! These treats are perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family.