The Best Coconut Macaroons

There’s something irresistibly delightful about biting into a chewy, sweet, and perfectly golden coconut macaroon. These little mounds of shredded coconut are the epitome of simple pleasures, yet they bring so much joy with every bite. Whether you’re craving a quick treat to accompany your afternoon tea or a charming cookie to share during the holidays, The Best Coconut Macaroons recipe will quickly become your go-to. Light, chewy, and sweet with just the right amount of crispness on the outside, these macaroons are a celebration of coconut done right — and they’re incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients.

Why It’s My Go-To

What makes The Best Coconut Macaroons stand out isn’t just their delightful taste but their simplicity. They come together in less than 30 minutes, require minimal ingredients, and don’t ask for any complicated techniques. The combination of granulated sugar and light corn syrup ensures a chewy texture without being overly sticky or crumbly. Plus, using egg whites at room temperature helps the macaroons hold their shape beautifully and bake to a golden perfection. If you’re someone who loves coconut, this recipe is like a little coconutty hug in cookie form — balanced sweetness, rich texture, and just the right amount of vanilla flavor to keep you coming back for more.

What’s in the Bowl

• 3 tablespoons water — To help dissolve the sugar and create the perfect syrup base.
• ½ cup granulated sugar — Adds sweetness and helps with the chewy texture.
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup — Keeps the macaroons moist and prevents crystallization.
• ¼ teaspoon salt — Balances the sweetness and enhances the coconut flavor.
• 14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut — The star ingredient, delivering that unmistakable coconut chew.
• 2 egg whites, room temperature — Whipped into the mixture to bind everything together and add lift.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.

What’s in the Gear List

• Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients smoothly.
• Electric mixer or whisk: To whip egg whites to perfection.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurement.
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Spoon or cookie scoop: To portion out the macaroons evenly.
• Cooling rack: To cool your macaroons evenly and keep them crisp on the outside.

Method: The Best Coconut Macaroons

Step 1: Prepare Your Sugar Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean mixing bowl, whip the room temperature egg whites until soft peaks begin to form. This will give your macaroons a light, airy texture and help hold the coconut mixture together.

Step 3: Combine Coconut and Vanilla

In a large bowl, mix the shredded coconut with the vanilla extract. Pour in the warm sugar syrup and stir well to coat the coconut evenly. The mixture will be sticky and thick — that’s exactly what you want.

Step 4: Fold in the Egg Whites

Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the coconut mixture. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites; you want to keep as much air in the mixture as possible for a light texture. Once combined, your macaroon batter will be glossy and hold together nicely.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop mounds of macaroon batter onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the tops look set.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the macaroons to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them firm up and develop that perfect chewy texture.

Variations by Season

• Winter: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the coconut mixture for a cozy, warming flavor.
• Spring: Stir in finely chopped dried apricots or lemon zest for a bright, fresh twist.
• Summer: Dip the bottoms in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for a decadent finish.
• Fall: Mix in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts and a dash of pumpkin spice.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Not drying the coconut enough: Excess moisture can cause the macaroons to spread and become flat instead of holding their shape.
• Overwhipping egg whites: This can cause them to become dry and grainy, making it harder to fold gently into the coconut.
• Using cold egg whites: Room temperature egg whites whip better and give a fluffier texture.
• Skipping the corn syrup: Without it, the sugar can crystallize, leading to gritty macaroons.
• Baking at too high a temperature: This can burn the edges quickly while leaving the center undercooked.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To keep your macaroons fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay chewy and delicious for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze the macaroons in a sealed container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about an hour. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry them out and make them lose their chewy texture.

The Best Coconut Macaroons Q&A

Can I use unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened?

Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut, but you may want to increase the amount of sugar slightly to maintain the sweetness level. The texture will remain just as delightful!

Is it necessary to use corn syrup?

Corn syrup helps prevent sugar crystallization and keeps the macaroons moist and chewy. If you prefer, you can substitute with honey or golden syrup, but corn syrup produces the best texture.

Can I add chocolate to these macaroons?

Absolutely! For an extra indulgence, dip the bottoms of cooled macaroons in melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the top. Let the chocolate set before serving.

How do I ensure my macaroons don’t stick to the baking sheet?

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This creates a non-stick surface and makes cleanup much easier.

Desserts to Finish

• Lemon Bars — Bright and tangy, a perfect citrus contrast to coconut.
• Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies — Classic comfort food that pairs well with coconut treats.
• Vegan Chocolate Avocado Mousse — Smooth and rich, a light finish to any meal.
• Mixed Berry Crisp — Fresh, fruity, and perfect for any season.

See You at the Table

Baking The Best Coconut Macaroons is more than just making cookies. It’s about creating moments of joy to share with family and friends. Whether you’re packing them in lunchboxes, gifting them in pretty tins, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these macaroons will always bring a smile. So grab your mixing bowls, preheat your oven, and get ready to fall in love with coconut all over again. Happy baking!

Share on Pinterest