Description
These Perfect Coconut Macaroons are chewy, sweet, and golden-baked delights made with shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and whipped egg whites. Optionally dipped in rich semi-sweet chocolate and topped with maraschino cherries, they make an irresistible treat perfect for any dessert table or festive occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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
Optional Toppings and Dips
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for dipping)
- Maraschino cherries, drained and halved (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix coconut base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well integrated.
- Beat egg whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites along with the salt until stiff peaks form, indicating the whites are fully aerated and ready to add lightness to the macaroons.
- Fold whites into coconut mixture: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture to maintain airiness and give the macaroons their characteristic chewy texture.
- Form macaroons: Drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the macaroons turn golden brown around the edges.
- Optional chocolate dip: While the macaroons cool, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips using a microwave or double boiler. Dip the bottoms of the completely cooled macaroons into the melted chocolate and place them back on parchment paper to set.
- Optional cherry garnish: If desired, top each macaroon with a halved maraschino cherry for a festive touch.
- Cool completely: Allow the macaroons to cool and the chocolate (if used) to harden completely before serving to ensure perfect texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whipped.
- Use fresh coconut for the best texture, though frozen coconut can be substituted if thawed and drained properly.
- Almond extract is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor and pairs well with coconut.
- Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so watch for golden edges as an indicator of doneness.
- Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend freshness.
- For a gluten-free treat, make sure your vanilla extract and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
