Coconut macaroons are a delightful treat that perfectly balance a crispy golden exterior with a soft and chewy center. Made with shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and a hint of vanilla, these macaroons are easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. Whether you enjoy them plain, drizzled with chocolate, or dipped in melted chocolate for an extra indulgence, these coconut macaroons are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. They make a perfect dessert for holidays, tea parties, or as an everyday snack.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large egg whites
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup melted dark or milk chocolate (optional, for dipping or drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Mixture – In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all the coconut is coated.
- Whip the Egg Whites – In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with the salt until stiff peaks form. This step helps create a light and airy texture in the macaroons.
- Fold the Mixtures Together – Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the coconut mixture, being careful not to deflate the egg whites. This will ensure the macaroons remain light and chewy.
- Shape the Macaroons – Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, form small mounds of the mixture and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake to Perfection – Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Cool Completely – Allow the macaroons to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Chocolate Coating – If desired, dip the bottom of each macaroon in melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the top for an extra layer of flavor. Let the chocolate set before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy – These coconut macaroons are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
These coconut macaroons are a delightful, gluten-free dessert that’s simple to make and bursting with coconut flavor. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to be a favorite among coconut lovers!