If you love desserts that strike the perfect balance between chewy and crisp, Coconut Macaroons are a timeless delight you’ll want to bake again and again. These golden, bite-sized treats are rich with coconut flavor, lightly sweetened, and irresistibly tender on the inside.
Whether you serve them as a teatime snack, a holiday cookie, or a gluten-free dessert option, this easy recipe captures bakery-quality results right from your kitchen. Plus, they store beautifully — making them perfect for meal prep or gifting.
Ingredients
Makes about 20 macaroons
- 3 cups (240g) sweetened shredded coconut
- 2/3 cup (130g) granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup (90g) semi-sweet chocolate chips for dipping or drizzling
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Cooling time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, sugar, and salt.
- Add egg whites and vanilla extract, mixing until the coconut is evenly coated and sticky.
Step 3: Shape the Macaroons
- Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, form mounds of the coconut mixture onto the baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Compact gently with your fingers to prevent them from falling apart while baking.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and the edges are crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the tray before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 5: Optional Chocolate Dip
- Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Dip the bottoms of cooled macaroons into the melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate on top.
- Place on parchment to set before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Dip half of each macaroon in dark chocolate for a rich twist.
- Serve with fresh fruit or whipped cream for a light dessert.
- Pack in decorative tins for homemade gifts during holidays or special occasions.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 macaroon) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| Total Fat | 6 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 12 grams |
| Sugars | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 35 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Coconut provides healthy fats and a dose of dietary fiber.
- Egg whites add light protein and help bind the mixture naturally.
- Chocolate drizzle boosts flavor — dark chocolate adds antioxidants and richness.
- Naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free.
Tips for Perfect Coconut Macaroons
- For a crispier exterior, bake a few minutes longer and let them cool completely before storing.
- To make them extra chewy, slightly underbake and store in an airtight container.
- If your mixture feels too dry, add 1 tablespoon of condensed milk for extra moisture.
- Always let them cool fully before dipping in chocolate to avoid melting.
Variations to Try
- Add lemon zest or orange extract for a citrusy twist.
- Mix in chopped nuts or dried cranberries for extra texture.
- Replace sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a natural sweetener option.
- Use unsweetened coconut flakes and increase sugar slightly for a lighter sweetness profile.
These Coconut Macaroons are the perfect marriage of chewy and crisp textures, packed with natural coconut flavor and just the right touch of sweetness. They’re quick to prepare, visually stunning, and endlessly customizable — ideal for holidays, dessert platters, or everyday indulgence.
Once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your baking rotation — proof that simple ingredients can create truly extraordinary treats.