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–+ servings
Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are a sweet, chewy treat made primarily with egg whites and shredded coconut. These cookies gained popularity in American kitchens in the mid-20th century for their simplicity, low ingredient count, and ability to transform pantry staples into something special. Often associated with holidays and bake sales, this particular version yields airy, golden-browned cookies with a lightly crisp shell and soft, moist interior. The whipped egg whites provide a delicate structure while sugar and vanilla add just enough flavor to highlight the natural richness of coconut.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 20 cookies
Calories 84 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 egg whites
  • ⅛ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ⅔ cup sugar
  • 2 cups flaked coconut

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat Oven

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease 2 baking sheets or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Beat Egg Whites

  • In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and salt at high speed until soft peaks begin to form.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Sugar

  • Add vanilla. Gradually add sugar while beating constantly until stiff peaks form.

Step 4: Fold in Coconut

  • Gently fold in the flaked coconut with a spatula until evenly combined.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

  • Drop by tablespoonfuls about 1 inch apart onto the prepared baking sheets.
  • Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly browned.

Step 6: Cool and Remove

  • Let cool 1 minute on the sheet before carefully removing to a wire rack.

Tips

  • Use finely shredded coconut for a smoother texture, or coarser flakes for a chewier macaroon.
  • Dip bottoms or drizzle tops with melted dark chocolate for a richer version.
  • Add 1 to 2 tablespoons almond flour to slightly firm the batter.
  • Fold in mini chocolate chips for a fun variation.
  • Add a pinch of salt to enhance sweetness and coconut flavor.
  • For extra height, pipe the mixture instead of spooning it.
  • Add ½ teaspoon almond extract for a classic bakery-style twist.
  • Make them festive by sprinkling colored sugar on top before baking.
  • To prevent sticking, cool completely before lifting from baking sheets.

Nutrition

Calories: 84kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 0.05mgSodium: 10mgPotassium: 52mgFiber: 1gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 0.04IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword coconut, cookies, egg whites, gluten-free style, holiday treat, light dessert, simple baking, vintage
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