Description
Coconut macaroons are simple yet decadent cookies made from sweetened coconut flakes, condensed milk, and a hint of almond and vanilla extract, often dipped in chocolate for extra indulgence. Perfect for holiday baking, dessert platters, or as homemade gifts. Easily made gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan.
Ingredients
For the Macaroons:
– 14 oz sweetened coconut flakes (substitute unsweetened coconut flakes if needed)
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– ½ cup all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free flour if needed)
– ¼ tsp almond extract
– ½ tsp vanilla extract
– ⅛ tsp salt
For Chocolate Dipping (Optional):
– ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (substitute sugar-free or plant-based chocolate chips for dietary needs)
– ⅓ cup heavy cream (substitute coconut cream for vegan diets)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together coconut flakes, flour, and salt.
- Add sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix well using a spatula or Danish hook until fully combined.
- Using a 1.5-tablespoon cookie scoop, shape the dough into mounds by firmly packing it into the scoop. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then broil for 1–2 minutes until golden brown and toasted.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before dipping in chocolate.
- Place chocolate chips in a medium bowl. Heat heavy cream until hot (about 35 seconds in the microwave) and pour over the chocolate chips. Stir until smooth.
- Dip the bottoms of the cooled macaroons in melted chocolate. Refrigerate for the chocolate to set before serving.
Notes
– Use fresh coconut flakes for maximum flavor and texture. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.
– Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week. Freeze undipped macaroons for longer storage; thaw overnight in the fridge before dipping. Avoid microwaving if possible.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Coconut Treats
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 macaroon
- Calories: ~120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg