Coconut macaroons are a classic dessert that is easy to make and loved by many. These sweet and chewy cookies are packed with coconut flavor and have a crispy exterior that is simply irresistible. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy treat to make for a party or want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to be a hit. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Sweetened flaked coconut, sweetened condensed milk, egg whites, a pinch of salt, and a blend of coconut and vanilla extract, are all you need to create these delicious macaroons. Simply mix the ingredients together, form them into small mounds, and bake until golden brown.
Jump to:
- What are Macaroons?
- Understanding the Two Different Types of Macaroons and How They Differ in Texture
- Ingredients For Macaroons
- Tools You'll Need
- How to Make Macaroons
- Substitutions
- Variations
- How to Serve
- How to Store
- Make-Ahead
- How to Freeze
- Tips for Making The Best Macaroons
- FAQ
- Watch How to Make It
- Related Recipes:
- Recipe
Coconut macaroons are incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking. Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for an extra crunch, or dip them in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist. You can even experiment with different flavors by adding lemon zest or almond extract to the mixture. One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. It's perfect for anyone who loves baking but doesn't have a lot of time or experience in the kitchen.
Plus, it's a great recipe to get kids involved in the baking process. Whether you're serving them as a sweet snack, dessert, or part of a holiday celebration such as Passover, coconut macaroons are a delicious treat that everyone will love. So why not whip up a batch today and see for yourself just how easy and delicious they are?
What are Macaroons?
Coconut macaroons are a classic and easy-to-make cookie made with shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, egg whites, and vanilla extract. Also known as "haystacks," these cookies have a sweet and humble appeal. While not as visually striking as French macarons, coconut macaroons are a crowd-pleaser with their rich coconut flavor.
They are believed to have originated from the macaron recipe when coconut became a popular import item in the 1800s. Macaroons are often flavored with other ingredients, such as chocolate, nuts, or fruit, and can be enjoyed as a simple treat or used as a base for more elaborate desserts.
Understanding the Two Different Types of Macaroons and How They Differ in Texture
There are two types of macaroons - French and American - that differ in several ways, including texture. French macaroons are made with almond flour, sugar, and egg whites and are known for their smooth, crispy exterior and chewy interior. They have a smooth, flat top with a ruffled edge and are often filled with flavored ganache, buttercream, or jam. The texture of French macaroons is delicate and light, with a slightly crunchy exterior that gives way to a soft and chewy center.
On the other hand, American macaroons are made with shredded coconut, sugar, and egg whites and are typically denser and more compact than their French counterparts. They have a rough, textured exterior and a soft, chewy interior that is slightly moist and sticky. Unlike French macaroons, American macaroons are often dipped in chocolate or drizzled with a glaze.
Ingredients For Macaroons
Note: The full ingredients list is provided in the recipe card below.
- Sweetened flaked coconut: provides the main flavor and texture of the macaroons
- Sweetened condensed milk: helps bind the ingredients together and provides a sweet, creamy flavor
- Pure vanilla extract: adds flavor and aroma to the macaroons
- Coconut extract: enhances the coconut flavor in the macaroons
- Egg whites: help to bind the ingredients together and create the chewy texture of the macaroons
- Kosher salt: enhances the flavor of the macaroons and balances out the sweetness
- Bittersweet or Dark chocolate (optional): adds a delicious chocolatey flavor and texture to the macaroons.
Tools You'll Need
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Liquid Measuring Cup
- Parchment paper or Silicone baking mat
- (1) 18” x 13” Rimmed baking sheet
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Kitchen Scale
- Rubber Spatula
How to Make Macaroons
Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened flaked coconut, sweetened condensed milk, pure vanilla extract, and coconut extract. Stir the mixture together until everything is evenly combined.
Whip the egg whites and salt on high speed in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment until they form medium-firm peaks. Carefully fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture. Use a 4 teaspoon measuring spoon to form the mixture into small mounds on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
Bake the macaroons in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on the outside and lightly browned on the bottom. If you like your macaroons to be extra crispy, you can bake them for a few minutes longer. Once the macaroons are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
If you want to add a chocolate coating to your macaroons, melt the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in the microwave or use a double boiler. Dip the bottom of each macaroon into the melted chocolate and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to set the chocolate.
Substitutions
- Sweetened flaked coconut: You could use unsweetened flaked coconut instead, but you may want to increase the amount of sweetened condensed milk or add more sugar to compensate for the lack of sweetness.
- Pure vanilla extract: You could use other extracts, such as almond extract, coconut, or lemon zest, to add different flavors to the macaroons.
- Coconut extract: If you don't have coconut extract, skip it or use a different extract, such as almond or vanilla extract or lemon zest.
- Bittersweet chocolate: If you don't want to use chocolate, you could skip this ingredient entirely. Alternatively, you could use semi-sweet chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate instead of bittersweet chocolate for a different flavor. You could also try adding other mix-ins, such as chopped nuts or dried fruit, instead of the chocolate.
Variations
- Add chopped nuts: Try adding some chopped almonds, pecans, or macadamia nuts to the macaroon mixture for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Use different types of chocolate: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate, you could use dark chocolate or milk chocolate to coat the macaroons. You could also try using flavored chocolate, such as mint chocolate or orange chocolate, to add a different twist.
- Add spices: Try adding some cinnamon or nutmeg to the macaroon mixture for a warm and cozy flavor.
- Dip in caramel: Instead of chocolate, you could dip the macaroons in melted caramel for a sticky and sweet coating.
- Add citrus zest: Try adding some lemon or orange zest to the macaroon mixture for a bright and tangy flavor.
- Use different extracts: Instead of vanilla and coconut extract, try using different extracts such as almond, raspberry, or mint to add different flavors to the macaroons.
- Make them gluten-free: If you need to make your macaroons gluten-free, try using almond flour or another gluten-free flour in place of the flaked coconut.
- Make them dairy-free: If you need to make your macaroons dairy-free, try using plant-based sweetened condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate for dipping.
How to Serve
- Serve them on their own: Coconut macaroons are delicious on their own and can be enjoyed as a simple and satisfying treat.
- Serve with coffee or tea: Macaroons pair well with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a great choice for an afternoon snack.
- Use them as a base for other desserts: You can use macaroons as a base for other desserts such as parfaits, trifles, or ice cream sundaes.
- Serve with fresh fruit: Macaroons can be paired with fresh fruit such as strawberries, raspberries, or mango for a delicious and refreshing dessert.
- Gift them: Macaroons make a great homemade gift for friends and family. Simply package them in a clear bag or box with a ribbon for a thoughtful and tasty present.
- Serve at parties or gatherings: Macaroons can be a hit at parties or gatherings, especially if you offer a variety of flavors and toppings for guests to choose from.
How to Store
To store coconut macaroons, first, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Once they have cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Be sure to place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of macaroons to prevent them from sticking together.
Note that if you have dipped your macaroons in chocolate, it is best to store them in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting. However, be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor and texture.
Make-Ahead
- Make the macaroons as directed and allow them to cool completely to room temperature.
- Once the macaroons are completely cool, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- If you need to store the macaroons for longer than 2 weeks, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply place the macaroons in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you're ready to eat them, allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.
- If you plan to dip your macaroons in chocolate, it is best to dip them right before serving to ensure the chocolate is fresh and crisp. However, you can also dip them in chocolate ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve them. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving so that the macaroons are not too cold or hard.
How to Freeze
- Allow the macaroons to cool completely to room temperature before freezing.
- Place the macaroons in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
- Seal the container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Place the container or bag in the freezer.
Frozen macaroons will keep for up to 3 months. To thaw, remove the macaroons from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. You can also reheat the macaroons in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-10 minutes until they are warm and crispy. Once thawed or reheated, the macaroons can be served immediately.
Tips for Making The Best Macaroons
- Use good-quality ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, use good-quality coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing the batter can cause the macaroons to become tough and chewy. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and then stop.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon: Using a cookie scoop or spoon ensures that each macaroon is the same size and bakes evenly.
- Use parchment paper: Be sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the macaroons from sticking.
- Allow the macaroons to cool before dipping in chocolate: If you're adding a chocolate coating to your macaroons, allow them to cool completely before dipping them in chocolate. This prevents the chocolate from melting and keeps the macaroons crispy.
- Use a double boiler to melt chocolate: When melting chocolate, it's best to use a double boiler to prevent scorching. If you don't have a double boiler, you can also melt the chocolate in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring in between each interval.
- Experiment with flavors: Don't be afraid to try different flavors and mix-ins to make your macaroons unique. Add chopped nuts, spices, or citrus zest to change up the flavor.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can cause the macaroons to become too dry and hard. Watch them carefully and remove them from the oven as soon as they turn golden brown.
- Store the macaroons properly: Store the macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
FAQ
What is the difference between coconut macaroons and French macarons?
Coconut macaroons are typically made with shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and egg whites, while French macarons are made with almond flour, egg whites, and sugar. The two desserts have different textures and flavors.
Can I make coconut macaroons without condensed milk?
Yes, you can make coconut macaroons without condensed milk by using a mixture of egg whites and sugar to bind the coconut together. However, the texture and flavor may be slightly different.
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened coconut?
Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened coconut, but you may need to add more sugar to compensate for the lack of sweetness.
How long do coconut macaroons last?
Coconut macaroons can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make coconut macaroons ahead of time?
Yes, you can make coconut macaroons ahead of time and store them in an airtight container until you're ready to serve them. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Can I use other types of chocolate to coat the macaroons?
Yes, you can use other types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, to coat the macaroons or skip the chocolate coating altogether.
Can I make gluten-free coconut macaroons?
Yes, you can use almond flour or another gluten-free flour in place of the flaked coconut to make gluten-free coconut macaroons.
Can I make dairy-free coconut macaroons?
Yes, you can use plant-based sweetened condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate for dipping to make dairy-free coconut macaroons.
Can I use liquid egg whites instead of fresh egg whites?
Yes, you can use liquid egg whites instead of fresh egg whites. However, be sure to check the label to ensure that they are 100% egg whites without any additives.
How do I know when the coconut macaroons are done baking?
The coconut macaroons are done baking when they are golden brown around the edges and firm to the touch. They may still be slightly soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.
Can I add food coloring to the coconut macaroon mixture?
Yes, you can add food coloring to the macaroon mixture to create a fun and colorful dessert. Add a few drops of food coloring to the egg whites before folding them into the coconut mixture.
Can I make mini macaroons instead of regular-sized macaroons?
Yes, you can use a smaller cookie scoop or spoon to make mini macaroons. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
How do I prevent the coconut macaroons from spreading too much?
To prevent the coconut macaroons from spreading too much, be sure to use fresh egg whites and beat them until stiff peaks form. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter, or it may become too thin and spread out too much during baking.
How do I prevent the coconut macaroons from sticking to the parchment paper?
To prevent the coconut macaroons from sticking to the parchment paper, use a non-stick baking spray or grease the parchment paper lightly with oil or cooking spray before scooping the macaroon mixture onto it.
Can I use a different type of extract instead of vanilla extract?
Yes, you can use different types of extract, such as almond extract or orange extract to add different flavors to the coconut macaroons. Just be sure to use good-quality extracts for the best flavor.
What does coconut macarons taste like?
Coconut Macaroons have a distinct coconut flavor and a sweet, chewy texture. They are typically made with sweetened shredded coconut, which gives them a rich, sweet flavor. The addition of sweetened condensed milk and egg whites also adds to the sweetness and chewiness of the coconut macaroons.
If you dip the macaroons in chocolate, it adds a subtle bitterness that balances out the sweetness. Overall, macaroons have a deliciously sweet and coconutty flavor that is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.
Watch How to Make It
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Recipe
Coconut Macaroons
Tools
- (1) 18” x 13” Rimmed baking sheet
- Kitchen Scale
Ingredients
- 396 g (14-oz) bag sweetened flaked coconut, such as Baker's Angel Flake
- 175 ml (¾ cup) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 2 large egg whites
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate , best quality such as Ghirardelli, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened flaked coconut, sweetened condensed milk, pure vanilla extract, and coconut extract. Stir the mixture together until everything is evenly combined.
- Whip the egg whites and salt on high speed in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment until they form medium-firm peaks. Carefully fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture. Use a 4 teaspoon measuring spoon to form the mixture into small mounds on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake the macaroons in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on the outside and lightly browned on the bottom. If you like your macaroons to be extra crispy, you can bake them for a few minutes longer. Once the macaroons are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If you want to add a chocolate coating to your macaroons, melt the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in the microwave or use a double boiler. Dip the bottom of each macaroon into the melted chocolate and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to set the chocolate.
Notes
Make the macaroons as directed and allow them to cool completely to room temperature.
Once the macaroons are completely cool, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
If you need to store the macaroons for longer than 2 weeks, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply place the macaroons in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you're ready to eat them, allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.
If you plan to dip your macaroons in chocolate, it is best to dip them right before serving to ensure the chocolate is fresh and crisp. However, you can also dip them in chocolate ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve them. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving so that the macaroons are not too cold or hard.
How to Freeze
Allow the macaroons to cool completely to room temperature before freezing.
Place the macaroons in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
Seal the container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Place the container or bag in the freezer. Frozen macaroons will keep for up to 3 months. To thaw, remove the macaroons from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. You can also reheat the macaroons in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-10 minutes until they are warm and crispy. Once thawed or reheated, the macaroons can be served immediately.
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.