Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Coconut Macaroons with Optional Chocolate Dip Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 69 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 18 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Coconut Macaroons are chewy, sweet, and packed with shredded coconut, making them a perfect treat for coconut lovers. Lightly flavored with vanilla and almond extracts, they bake to a beautiful golden brown and can optionally be dipped in rich semi-sweet chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. Simple to prepare, these macaroons are a delightful dessert or snack for any occasion.

Ingredients

Coconut Macaroons

  • 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 4 and 3/4 cups (385g) chopped sweetened shredded coconut (a little less than one 14-ounce package)

Optional Chocolate Dip

  • Two 4-ounce bars (226g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Preprocess the Coconut: Pulse the sweetened shredded coconut in a food processor a few times to break it into finer pieces, which helps the macaroons hold their shape better. Measure out 4 and 3/4 cups after pulsing. Alternatively, roughly chop the coconut with a knife.
  2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking, then set them aside.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, use a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment to beat the egg whites, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract on medium-high speed. Beat until the mixture is foamy and the sugar is mostly dissolved, about 1 minute. Be careful not to overbeat.
  4. Incorporate Coconut: Gently fold the chopped coconut into the egg white mixture until the coconut is evenly moistened, making sure not to deflate the mixture.
  5. Scoop the Macaroons: Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, portion out about 1.5 tablespoons (approximately 30g) of the mixture per macaroon. Place dollops onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. For smaller cookies, use 1 tablespoon per scoop.
  6. Bake: Bake the macaroons in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until the edges and tops are lightly browned. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
  7. Cool: Let the macaroons cool on the baking sheets for 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer them with a thin spatula to a wire rack to cool completely. The bottoms may be sticky after baking.
  8. Prepare Chocolate Dip (Optional): Melt the chopped semi-sweet chocolate using a double boiler or microwave. If using the microwave, heat in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each until completely melted and smooth.
  9. Dip Macaroons in Chocolate: Once the coconut macaroons have cooled, dip them into the melted chocolate and place them back onto the lined baking sheets. Allow the chocolate to set either at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
  10. Storage: Store the finished coconut macaroons covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Pulsing the coconut results in a tighter crumb and helps the macaroons hold their shape better.
  • If you lack a food processor, chopping the coconut by hand works well too.
  • Be careful not to overbeat the egg whites as this can affect texture.
  • Chocolate dipping is optional but adds a delicious contrast to the sweet coconut.
  • Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • Allow macaroons to cool fully before dipping in chocolate to prevent melting.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://quickandsweetrecipes.com/coconut-macaroons-with-optional-chocolate-dip-recipe/