Coconut macaroons are a delightful treat that combines the tropical flavor of coconut with a hint of sweetness. These golden, chewy delights are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a simple snack with your afternoon tea. This easy-to-follow recipe uses minimal ingredients and delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups of shredded sweetened coconut
- ⅔ cup of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- 2 large egg whites
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- Optional: ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips or melted chocolate for dipping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sweetened coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and pure vanilla extract. Mix well until all the coconut is evenly coated.
- In a separate clean, dry bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whisk the egg whites and salt together. Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form. This will help make the macaroons light and airy.
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the coconut mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites while mixing.
- Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, scoop the mixture into small mounds and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the macaroons cool for 10 minutes on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second intervals, stirring between intervals until smooth. Dip the bottoms of the cooled macaroons into the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set.
- Allow the chocolate to harden completely before serving or storing.
- Store the macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
These coconut macaroons are an absolute delight with their chewy texture and rich flavor. The optional chocolate coating adds a touch of elegance and a contrasting sweetness that enhances the coconut’s tropical taste. Enjoy these simple, yet indulgent treats with your loved ones!