Name: Best Coconut Macaroons Recipe
Yield: 12 macaroons
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded coconut (unsweetened); 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large egg whites; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

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Coconut macaroons are a delightful treat, renowned for their chewy texture and rich, sweet coconut flavour. These bite-sized cookies are made with simple ingredients, including shredded coconut, egg whites, and sugar, to create a delicious combination that’s hard to resist.

They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a festive dessert. Coconut macaroons can be easily made at home with just a few steps, making them a go-to choice for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.

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Why You’ll Love Coconut Macaroons

Simple to Make: Coconut macaroons are easy to prepare with just a few ingredients, making them an excellent option for beginners or anyone in a hurry.
Naturally Sweet: These treats offer a perfect balance of sweetness without being overly sugary, thanks to the coconut and a hint of vanilla.
Chewy and Crispy Texture: Each bite offers a delightful mix of crunchy exterior and chewy interior, making them irresistibly satisfying.

Ingredient Notes for Coconut Macaroons

To make delicious coconut macaroons, you only need a few simple ingredients. These ingredients come together to create a treat that’s chewy on the inside and golden on the outside.

Shredded Coconut: The main ingredient for these macaroons. Use unsweetened shredded coconut for a pure coconut flavor. The texture of shredded coconut gives the macaroons their signature chewy bite.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the richness of the coconut. This will help the macaroons caramelize slightly on the outside as they bake.
Egg Whites: The egg whites serve as a binder, holding the coconut and sugar together to give the macaroons their fluffy texture.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a hint of warmth and depth to the flavour, enhancing the natural taste of the coconut.
Salt: A pinch of salt helps to bring out the sweetness and balances the overall flavour profile of the macaroons.

How to Make Coconut Macaroons

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sugar, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture, adding the vanilla extract as you go.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form the mixture into small, rounded mounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges of the macaroons are golden brown.
(Optional) Once the macaroons are baked and cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate for an added touch of sweetness and decoration.

Coconut Macaroons Variation

Chocolate-dipped macaroons: After baking, dip the bottoms of the macaroons in melted chocolate for a rich and indulgent touch.
Lemon coconut macaroons: Add lemon zest to the mixture for a fresh, citrusy twist.
Mini Coconut Macaroons: Create smaller-sized macaroons for bite-sized treats that are perfect for snacking or sharing.
Coconut almond macaroons: Add chopped almonds or almond extract to the mixture for a nutty flavour that complements the coconut perfectly.

How to Serve Coconut Macaroons

With coffee or tea: Coconut macaroons pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The sweetness of the cookies complements the bitterness of the coffee, making them a great pairing.
As a dessert, serve them as part of a dessert platter alongside other small treats, such as cookies or cakes.
On their own: These macaroons are delicious by themselves and make a great snack to enjoy at any time of day.

Storage Tips

In an airtight container: Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. They will stay good for up to 5 days.
Freezing macaroons: If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze coconut macaroons. Please place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 3 months.
Avoid humidity: Keep macaroons in a cool, dry place to prevent them from becoming soggy. If storing in a humid environment, it’s best to freeze them for more extended storage.

FAQs About Coconut Macaroons

Can I add other ingredients to coconut macaroons?

Yes, you can add ingredients like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts for an extra flavour boost. Just be sure not to overwhelm the coconut flavour with too many additional ingredients.

How do I store coconut macaroons?

Store coconut macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For more extended storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Are coconut macaroons gluten-free?

Yes, coconut macaroons are naturally gluten-free since they don’t contain any wheat flour. Always check ingredients to ensure no hidden gluten-containing products are added.

How do I make coconut macaroons crispy?

To make your macaroons crispy, bake them at a slightly lower temperature for a longer time. This allows them to dry out while keeping the inside chewy and the outside crisp.