Coconut Macaroons

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Coconut macaroons are the perfect combination of sweet and chewy, with a crisp, golden exterior and a soft, coconut-packed interior. They’re naturally gluten-free and easy to customize with a touch of chocolate, nuts, or dried fruit. With just a few basic ingredients, these macaroons come together quickly and are ideal for anyone looking for a simple yet delicious homemade treat. Plus, the smell of them baking in your kitchen is simply irresistible!

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

• 2 large egg whites (at room temperature)

• 2/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips or melted chocolate (optional for dipping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the coconut mixture:

• In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, egg whites, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. If using almond extract, add it to the mixture as well.

• Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined. The coconut should be evenly coated with the egg whites and sugar.

3. Shape the macaroons:

• Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out small amounts of the coconut mixture and shape it into small mounds, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches tall. You can use a small ice cream scoop or spoon to help portion them evenly.

• Place each mound onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

4. Bake the macaroons:

• Bake the macaroons in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the edges and slightly toasted on top.

• Keep an eye on them, as the baking time can vary depending on your oven. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.

5. Optional chocolate dip:

• If you’d like to dip your macaroons in chocolate, melt the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth.

• Once the macaroons have cooled, dip the bottoms of each macaroon into the melted chocolate, then place them back on the parchment paper to set. Allow the chocolate to harden before serving.

6. Serve:

• Once the macaroons are completely cool (and the chocolate has set, if using), they’re ready to enjoy! Serve them as an after-dinner treat or enjoy them with your afternoon tea.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-15 macaroons

Total time: 45 minutes (including baking time)

Variations

• Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Macaroons: For a delicious twist, dip the macaroons in dark or milk chocolate after they’ve cooled. You can drizzle some chocolate over the top for added decoration.

• Lemon Coconut Macaroons: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the mixture for a fresh, citrusy flavor that complements the coconut beautifully.

• Coconut Macaroons with Nuts: Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the coconut mixture for extra texture and flavor.

• Coconut Macaroons with Dried Fruit: Add some dried cranberries, cherries, or raisins to the coconut mixture for a bit of tartness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’ve dipped them in chocolate, be sure to store them carefully to avoid damaging the chocolate.

Freezing: Coconut macaroons freeze well. Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened shredded coconut?

Sweetened shredded coconut is recommended for this recipe, as it adds the right amount of sweetness and moisture to the macaroons. If you use unsweetened coconut, you may need to increase the amount of sugar to compensate for the lack of sweetness.

2. Can I make coconut macaroons without egg whites?

Egg whites are essential for binding the ingredients together and giving the macaroons their chewy texture. There’s no perfect substitute for egg whites in this recipe, but if you need an egg-free version, you could try using aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) as a replacement for egg whites.

3. Why are my macaroons flat?

If your macaroons are flat, it could be due to the egg whites not being whipped enough or the batter being too wet. Be sure to beat the egg whites to stiff peaks and ensure the coconut mixture is evenly mixed but not too runny.

4. Can I add flavoring to my coconut macaroons?

Yes! You can add almond extract, citrus zest (lemon, lime, or orange), or even a few drops of your favorite flavored extract (like coconut or hazelnut) to enhance the flavor of the macaroons.

5. How can I make my macaroons more chewy?

To make your macaroons chewier, use a higher proportion of sweetened shredded coconut in relation to the egg whites. You can also try using a bit more sugar to help retain moisture in the macaroons.

6. Can I use a stand mixer to whip the egg whites?

Yes, a stand mixer or an electric hand mixer works great for whipping the egg whites to stiff peaks. Just be sure not to overbeat them, as this could make the macaroons dry.

7. How do I know when the macaroons are done baking?

The macaroons are done when they are golden brown around the edges and firm to the touch. You should be able to easily lift them off the parchment paper once they’ve cooled. The tops should be slightly crisp, and the interior will remain soft and chewy.

8. Can I make coconut macaroons with other types of coconut?

While shredded coconut is the most common type used in macaroons, you could also try using desiccated coconut, which is a finer texture. However, shredded coconut gives the best texture for this recipe.

9. Can I make coconut macaroons smaller or larger?

Yes! You can make coconut macaroons smaller or larger, depending on your preference. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller macaroons will bake more quickly, and larger ones will take a bit longer to bake.

10. How do I store leftover chocolate-dipped macaroons?

Store your chocolate-dipped macaroons in an airtight container in a cool place. Be sure to keep the chocolate-covered bottoms from touching each other to avoid smudging the chocolate.

Conclusion

Coconut macaroons are a simple yet indulgent treat that is loved for their chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor. Whether you prefer them plain, chocolate-dipped, or flavored with citrus or nuts, these macaroons are a versatile and satisfying dessert. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create these delicious cookies that are sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and texture in every bite!