Y’all, I love when a plan comes together! Or maybe it’s just dumb luck…

First, I decided to use a basic gluten free pie crust recipe. And while individually, I liked each part- all together I was just not wowed. Then, I decided to create the crust from chocolate cookie dough.

Definitely a major upgrade! Based loosely on my Thin & Crispy Gluten Free Cinnamon Cookies, turns out I created the PERFECT cookie dough pie crust! Toward the end of baking- these little guys will cave-in a bit, which translates to just the right amount of space for the filling! I could not have “planned” it any better!

Plus, toasting the coconut will ALWAYS elevate the overall flavor! Just do it- trust me!

‍

‍

Ingredients in Gluten Free Toasted Coconut Cheesecake Bites

• Coconut Flakes
• Cream Cheese
• Milk or Cream
• Powdered Sugar
• Coconut Extract
• Vanilla Extract
• GF Chocolate Cookie Dough

‍

How to Make Gluten Free Chocolate Cookie Dough

You can make or buy your favorite chocolate cookie dough. This recipe is super simple and only requires 7 ingredients. No need to refrigerate before baking.

• Butter
• Brown Sugar
• Vanilla
• Dark Chocolate Chips
• Dark Cocoa Powder
• Baking Soda
• Gluten Free Flour (a blend is best)

‍

‍

No-Bake Cheesecake

I love to make no-bake cheesecake! It's so versatile! This thick, cream cheese icing comes together in minutes. Now, the shell/crust may or may not be baked- I've gone both ways. All you need is cream cheese, milk/cream, desired flavoring, and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth, creamy, and not too thin. Then, pipe or spoon onto a crunchy shell. Mini is even better because they're cute and there's no need to slice! There are countless flavor options to choose from- how many can you make???

Why You Should Toast Coconut

Toasting coconut flakes brings out a nutty flavor that is hard to beat! It also creates a crispier texture. Using the oven or a skillet, the white flakes become a deep, golden brown. If you watch any cooking show, you'll know that "toast your nuts" is a very popular phrase. And while it may not fit the definition of a true tree nut, coconuts are a one-seed fruit, just like other nuts. 40+ years of America's favorite Girl Scout cookie must be on to something!