Name: Coconut Macaroons
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: ⅔ cup Flour; 5 ½ cups Shredded Sweetened Coconut; ½ teaspoon Salt; 14 ounce can Sweetened Condensed Milk; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; 1 teaspoon Almond Extract; 4 ounces White or Semi-sweet Baking Chocolate

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There’s something truly magical about Coconut Macaroons. Growing up, these delightful treats were a staple at every family gathering. I remember helping my grandmother in the kitchen, the scent of sweetened coconut filling the air as we mixed the ingredients. It was always a joyous occasion, rolling the sticky dough into balls and watching them transform in the oven. Each bite was a blend of chewy goodness and just the right amount of sweetness, topped off with a rich chocolate dip if we felt fancy. Every time I make Coconut Macaroons, it brings back those cherished memories and fills my home with warmth and comfort.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
160 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Oven, Baking Sheet

The Best Thing About This Coconut Macaroons

They’re Incredibly Easy to Make

One of the best things about Coconut Macaroons is how simple they are. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip them up in no time. There’s no need for complex techniques or fancy tools—just mix, scoop, and bake! Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a birthday celebration, holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, Coconut Macaroons fit right in. They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed any time of the year, and they always make people smile. Who wouldn’t enjoy a chewy coconut cookie?

Great for Sharing

These macaroons are fantastic for sharing. They’re easy to pack up and take to gatherings or to gift to friends and family. There’s just something delightful about giving a homemade treat that makes it extra special.

Customizable

You can easily personalize Coconut Macaroons to suit your taste. Want to add a hint of chocolate? Go for it! Prefer them plain? They’re delicious just as they are. The possibilities are endless!

Child-Friendly Fun

Making Coconut Macaroons is an enjoyable activity for kids. They love rolling the dough into balls and can help with the mixing. It’s a wonderful way to spend quality time together while creating something delicious.

Essential Ingredients for Coconut Macaroons

The beauty of Coconut Macaroons lies in their simple yet effective ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect chewy texture and sweet flavor. The combination of flour, shredded sweetened coconut, salt, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract come together harmoniously. The chocolate adds a delightful finish, making each macaroon a sweet indulgence.

Flour: ⅔ cup (82g) helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring your macaroons hold their shape.
Shredded Sweetened Coconut: 5 ½ cups (402g) is the star of this recipe, providing that chewy texture and sweet flavor we all love.
Salt: ½ teaspoon enhances the sweetness of the coconut and balances the flavors.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: 14-ounce can (396g) adds moisture and sweetness, making the macaroons rich and delicious.
Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons adds a warm, inviting flavor to the cookies.
Almond Extract: 1 teaspoon gives a lovely nutty undertone that complements the coconut.
White or Semi-sweet Baking Chocolate: 4 ounces (113g) is used for dipping, adding a touch of richness and elegance.

How to Cook Coconut Macaroons

Cooking Coconut Macaroons is a delightful experience; the aroma fills your kitchen and makes your mouth water. Follow these steps for a guaranteed success with your macaroons. Let’s dive into the delightful process of creating these chewy treats!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving the perfect bake. A properly preheated oven ensures that your Coconut Macaroons will rise and turn golden brown.
Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it ensures your macaroons come off cleanly and maintain their shape.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the flour, shredded sweetened coconut, and salt. This step is essential for ensuring everything is evenly mixed before adding the wet ingredients.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and both the vanilla extract and almond extract to the dry mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. You should have a sticky, cohesive dough that holds together when pressed.
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop balls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets. Leave some space between them, although these cookies don’t spread much. You can crowd them close together, as they will hold their shape well.
Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and gently press down any stray pieces of coconut sticking out. This will help prevent them from burning during baking.
Bake for about 11 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden and the tops start to turn a light golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Once baked, remove the cookie sheets from the oven and allow the macaroons to cool completely on the sheets. This is important, as they will firm up as they cool.
To dip your macaroons in chocolate: melt the white or semi-sweet baking chocolate according to the package instructions. I recommend melting it on 50% power in 30-second increments, stirring between each increment until smooth.
If the chocolate is too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to help it melt smoother. Dip the bottoms or tops of each macaroon in the chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them back on the parchment to let the chocolate set.

Things Worth Knowing

Choose Fresh Coconut: Using fresh, high-quality shredded coconut will enhance the flavor and texture of your macaroons.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your macaroons while they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
Chilling the Dough: If your dough feels too sticky, consider chilling it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before scooping. This can make it easier to manage.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a touch of lemon zest or even some chopped nuts for a unique twist on your classic Coconut Macaroons.

Tips and Tricks about Coconut Macaroons

When it comes to perfecting your Coconut Macaroons, I’ve gathered some handy tips that will elevate your baking game. The process is simple, but these little tricks can make a big difference!

Storage: Store your macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for several days. They can also be refrigerated to extend their freshness.
Freezing: You can freeze Coconut Macaroons for up to three months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking.
Pairing: These macaroons pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert platter.
Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly. Experiment until you find your perfect balance.
Serving Sizes: Feel free to make your macaroons smaller or larger. Adjust the baking time slightly depending on the size.

Serve This Coconut Macaroons With

When it comes to serving your Coconut Macaroons, there are countless options to elevate your presentation. Here are some delightful ideas:

Tea Parties: Serve them alongside a selection of herbal teas for a charming afternoon treat.
Picnics: Pack them in your picnic basket for a sweet snack that pairs perfectly with fresh fruit and cheese.
Celebrations: These macaroons are a great addition to any celebration, be it a birthday party or holiday gathering. They’ll impress guests with their taste and visual appeal.
Gift Giving: Consider gifting a box of homemade macaroons to friends or family. They make a lovely, heartfelt present.
Seasonal Décor: Use decorative plates or festive containers to enhance their presentation during holidays or special occasions.

FAQ

Coconut Macaroons are sweet, chewy cookies made primarily from shredded coconut, flour, and sweetened condensed milk. They are known for their delightful texture and rich coconut flavor, often dipped in chocolate for an extra treat. These cookies are simple to make and are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy family night.

Yes, you can easily make Coconut Macaroons gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that is specifically formulated for baking to achieve the best texture and flavor. Adjusting the flour won’t compromise the overall deliciousness of the macaroons.

Store your Coconut Macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for several days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate them. Alternatively, they freeze beautifully! Just layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container to avoid sticking and store for up to three months.

Coconut Macaroons pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Consider serving them with a cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate. They also make a lovely addition to dessert platters alongside fresh fruit or other baked goods.

Conclusion

In summary, Coconut Macaroons are a delightful treat filled with flavor and texture that everyone loves. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these sweet, chewy cookies that bring joy to any occasion. So why not take a moment to enjoy the process and make some today? You won’t regret the deliciousness they bring to your table!