Description
Deliciously chewy and sweet coconut macaroons made with shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and egg whites. These easy-to-make treats are perfect as a gluten-free dessert and can be enhanced with optional almond extract and chocolate dipping or drizzling for added indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroon Mixture
- 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Egg Whites
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional
- Melted chocolate for dipping or drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Coconut Base: In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Stir until the mixture is thoroughly blended.
- Whip Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form, ensuring the mixture is light and airy.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture until fully incorporated, taking care to maintain the fluffy texture.
- Form Macaroons: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch mounds and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the macaroons for 20–25 minutes or until the tops and edges turn golden brown.
- Cool: Allow the macaroons to cool completely on the baking sheet to set their shape.
- Add Chocolate (Optional): Dip the bottoms of the cooled macaroons in melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the tops. Place them back on parchment paper until the chocolate sets.
Notes
- Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a richer flavor, lightly toast the shredded coconut before mixing.
- Use unsweetened shredded coconut for a less sweet variation.
- Be gentle when folding in egg whites to maintain volume.
- Optional almond extract adds a subtle nutty note for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 macaroon
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
