Heat the maple syrup: In a saucepan, pour in 1 cup of maple syrup. Attach a candy thermometer to the pan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom.
Boil the syrup: Heat the maple syrup over medium-high heat, bringing it to a rolling boil. Allow it to boil until it reaches the soft ball stage, which is between 234º and 236º Fahrenheit on the candy thermometer.
Cool the syrup: Once the syrup reaches the desired temperature, remove the pan from the heat. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Beat the syrup: Using a fork, beat the soft syrup vigorously until it begins to crystallize. You’ll notice it will start to thicken and change texture.
Add flavorings: If you'd like to add an extra layer of flavor, mix in 1 tbsp of cocoa powder or 1 tsp of coconut flavoring or vanilla at this stage and stir until fully incorporated.
Incorporate coconut: Stir in the 1 cup of shredded coconut until it is evenly mixed into the syrup.
Drop spoonfuls: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop the mixture onto a sheet of parchment or wax paper, making evenly sized cookie mounds.
Let cool: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the parchment paper before enjoying. They will set as they cool.