Description

These Perfect Coconut Macaroons are chewy, sweet, and delightfully golden on the outside. Made with shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and fluffy beaten egg whites, they are easy to prepare and bake to perfection. Optionally dipped in rich semi-sweet chocolate and topped with maraschino cherries, these macaroons make an irresistible treat ideal for parties, holidays, or any time you crave a coconut confection.

Ingredients

Scale

Macaroon 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 Decorations

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for dipping)
Maraschino cherries, drained and halved (for decoration)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix Coconut Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined.
Beat Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites and salt together until stiff peaks form. This aeration will help give the macaroons a light, tender texture.
Fold Egg Whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture to preserve the fluffy texture without deflating the whites.
Shape Macaroons: Use a rounded tablespoon to drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow for even baking.
Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the macaroons turn a lovely golden brown on top and edges.
Melt Chocolate (Optional): If you choose to add chocolate, gently melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
Dip Macaroons: Once the macaroons have cooled completely, dip the bottoms into the melted chocolate and set them back on parchment paper to allow the chocolate to harden.
Add Cherry Garnish (Optional): For a festive touch, place a halved maraschino cherry on top of each macaroon while the chocolate is still soft or simply as a garnish.
Cool and Serve: Allow the macaroons to cool completely before serving to ensure they hold their shape and the chocolate sets nicely.

Notes

Be sure to use clean, grease-free bowls and beaters for whipping egg whites to achieve stiff peaks.
Almond extract is optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor; feel free to omit if allergic or unwanted.
If you prefer, skip the chocolate dip and cherry garnish for a simple coconut treat.
Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Ensure macaroons are completely cool before dipping in chocolate to avoid melting or sliding.