Coconut Macaroon Cookies Golden (Printable)

Chewy coconut macaroons with golden edges and a soft, sweet center for an elegant dessert.

# Components:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
02 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 4 large egg whites
05 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Optional Decoration

06 - 100 g dark chocolate, melted

# Directions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir to incorporate.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites and vanilla extract until they become just frothy, creating a light texture.
04 - Pour the prepared egg white mixture over the coconut and sugar blend. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined into a cohesive mass.
05 - Utilizing a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion mounds of the macaroon mixture onto the parchment-lined baking sheets. Ensure each portion is spaced approximately 1 inch apart to allow for even baking.
06 - Transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges of the macaroons achieve a golden brown hue and the centers appear set.
07 - Once baked, permit the macaroons to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Subsequently, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
08 - If desired, once the macaroons are fully cooled, dip their bases into melted dark chocolate or artistically drizzle chocolate over the tops. Allow the chocolate to fully set before serving the finished confection.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses basic pantry ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Naturally gluten free with no special flours needed
  • Perfect make ahead treat that stays fresh for days
02 -
  • These cookies are naturally gluten free making them perfect for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity
  • The recipe can easily be doubled or halved depending on your needs
  • Each cookie contains approximately 100 calories making them a reasonable sweet treat
03 -
  • After years of making these cookies I have discovered that letting the mixed batter sit for 5 minutes before scooping allows the coconut to absorb more moisture resulting in a better texture.
  • When shaping your macaroons slightly wet hands will prevent the mixture from sticking to your fingers.
  • For the most attractive cookies use a fork to create gentle ridges on top before baking these ridges will brown beautifully and create visual interest.
  • Always bake macaroons on the middle rack of your oven as the bottom rack can cause them to brown too quickly on the bottom before the centers are set.