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Coconut Macaroons Recipe

Coconut Macaroons Recipe


  • Author: Liana Brooks
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 20 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Chewy coconut macaroons recipe made with coconut, egg whites, and condensed milk. Easy, family-friendly dessert perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups shredded or desiccated coconut – the base that creates chewiness and a sweet, nutty flavor
  • 2 large egg whites – the binder that holds everything together, giving lightness
  • ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk – adds richness, sweetness, and moisture; evaporated milk can be used with added sugar
  • ¼ cup sugar or 3 tbsp honey – adjust depending on sweetness preference (omit for sugar-free or keto-friendly macaroons)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – balances flavor and enhances aroma
  • Optional flavor enhancers – almond extract, lemon zest, cocoa powder for chocolate macaroons
  • Optional add-ins – ½ cup chocolate chips, ¼ cup chopped almonds, pecans, pistachios, or dried fruit like apricot, cranberry, mango, raspberry, or cherry

Instructions

  1. Prep the oven and pan: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, lightly beat the egg whites until frothy. Stir in the condensed milk (or chosen substitute) until smooth.
  3. Combine with coconut: Gently fold in the shredded coconut. Use unsweetened coconut for less sweetness, or sweetened for a richer cookie.
  4. Shape the macaroons: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to form compact mounds. Space them 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.
  5. Bake until golden: Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the tops are lightly browned and the edges are crisp, but the centers stay soft.
  6. Optional finishing touches: Dip cooled cookies in melted dark or white chocolate, press a whole almond, Hershey’s Kiss, or dried cherry into the center before baking, or drizzle with caramel for extra sweetness.
  7. Cool completely: Allow macaroons to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Cooling helps them set while keeping the chewy texture.

Notes

  • For dairy-free or vegan coconut macaroons, replace condensed milk with coconut cream and egg whites with aquafaba.
  • For gluten free coconut macaroons, use almond flour or leave out flour completely.
  • For a healthier option, use monk fruit sweetener or erythritol instead of sugar.
  • Baked macaroons can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week or frozen for 2 months.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 100
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: coconut macaroons recipe