These Perfect Coconut Macaroons are a delightfully chewy, sweet treat with a crispy golden exterior. Simple to make and optionally dipped in chocolate or topped with a cherry, these classic macaroons are a gluten-free dessert that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
¼ tsp almond extract (optional, adds depth to the flavor)
2 large egg whites
¼ tsp salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for dipping)
Maraschino cherries, drained and halved (optional, for decoration)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Combine Coconut Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully combined.
Beat Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form. This gives the macaroons a light, airy texture.
Fold and Form: Gently fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture. Use a tablespoon to drop rounded scoops onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops and edges are golden brown.
Optional Chocolate Dip: If you’d like, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler. Once the macaroons are cool, dip the bottoms in melted chocolate and place them back on the parchment paper to set.
Optional Cherry Garnish: Add a maraschino cherry half to the top of each macaroon for a beautiful, sweet finishing touch.
Cool and Serve: Allow the macaroons to cool completely before serving.
Serving Tips:
Serving Temperature: These macaroons are best enjoyed at room temperature, which enhances their chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor.
Decorative Plating: Arrange macaroons on a platter with a drizzle of chocolate or sprinkle of shredded coconut for a visually appealing display. If topped with cherries, alternate with plain macaroons for a colorful look.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside fresh fruit, coffee, or tea for a delightful treat, especially during holidays or festive gatherings.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, keeping them soft and fresh.
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to extend freshness.
Freezing: Freeze macaroons by placing them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving.
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FAQs:
Why did my macaroons turn out dry?
If your macaroons are dry, they may have baked too long. Bake them just until the tops and edges are golden brown to keep the inside soft and chewy. Using too little sweetened condensed milk or not measuring ingredients accurately can also lead to dryness.
Can I make coconut macaroons without sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, but the texture and flavor may vary. Substitute sweetened condensed milk with an equal amount of a thick, sticky alternative like honey or maple syrup. You may need to add more shredded coconut to get the right consistency.
How do I make my macaroons crispier on the outside?
For a crispier exterior, use slightly less sweetened condensed milk and bake until the edges are more golden. Another tip is to broil for the last minute of baking, keeping a close eye to avoid over-browning.
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut, but the macaroons will be less sweet. To adjust, add a few tablespoons of sugar to the coconut mixture, tasting as you go to reach your desired sweetness level.
Conclusion:
These coconut macaroons are a crowd-pleaser and great for any occasion. Enjoy them as-is, with chocolate, or topped with a cherry. Simple, sweet, and satisfying, they’re a delightful addition to your dessert lineup!
📖 Recipe:
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Perfect Coconut Macaroons
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 macaroons
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
If you’re looking for the perfect bite of coconut sweetness, these classic coconut macaroons are just what you need! Crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, they’re a delightful combination of textures and flavors, finished off with a tempting chocolate dip and a cherry on top. Whether for holiday treats, special occasions, or a simple dessert craving, this easy macaroon recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
¼ tsp almond extract (optional, adds depth to the flavor)
2 large egg whites
¼ tsp salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for dipping)
Maraschino cherries, drained and halved (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Stir until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto the baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until macaroons are golden brown.
- Optional Chocolate Dip: Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler, dip the bottoms of the cooled macaroons in chocolate, and set them on parchment paper.
- Optional Cherry Garnish: Top each macaroon with a halved maraschino cherry if desired.
- Allow macaroons to cool completely before serving.
Notes
For best texture, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form before folding into the coconut mixture.
Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
These macaroons are naturally gluten-free, making them a great dessert option for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 macaroons
- Calories: 120 kcal
