There’s something truly magical about the combination of coconut and chocolate, and these Coconut Blossoms encapsulate that delight perfectly. With a soft, chewy coconut base and a surprise chocolate center, they are a treat that is sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, these delightful morsels are easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. Let’s dive into the world of Coconut Blossoms and uncover just why this recipe is a must-try!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
Coconut Blossoms are a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making them irresistible. The crunchy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft and chewy interior, while the rich chocolate kiss adds a delightful surprise. Not only are they simple to make, but they also require minimal ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. These treats are gluten-free, making them suitable for a variety of diets. Plus, they can be made in under an hour, which means you can satisfy your cravings without a lengthy baking session!
Your Shopping Guide
To make these Coconut Blossoms, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here’s what to grab during your next grocery trip:
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 14 ounces sweetened coconut flakes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 24 unwrapped Hershey’s Kisses (or your preferred chocolate candy)
Cook’s Kit
Before you start baking, gather your essential tools:
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining your ingredients.
- Whisk: To beat the egg whites until frothy.
- Baking sheet: A lined or greased sheet for baking your Coconut Blossoms.
- Cookie scoop or spoon: For portioning the dough.
- Oven: Preheated to ensure even baking.
Cook Coconut Blossoms Like This
Follow these simple steps to create your Coconut Blossoms:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk to beat the egg whites until they are frothy. This will help create a light, airy texture in your Coconut Blossoms.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, and table salt to the frothy egg whites. Mix until well combined. The sugar should dissolve into the egg whites.
Step 4: Fold in the Coconut and Flour
Gently fold in the sweetened coconut flakes and all-purpose flour. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the airiness of the egg whites.
Step 5: Scoop and Shape
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each mound, as they will spread slightly during baking.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate
Press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each mound, ensuring it is secure but not completely submerged.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may still be soft, which is perfectly fine.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the Coconut Blossoms to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Seasonal Flavor Boosts
If you want to give your Coconut Blossoms a little twist, try these seasonal flavor boosts:
- Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Incorporate mini chocolate chips for added chocolatey goodness.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking for extra texture.
- Mix in a teaspoon of orange zest for a refreshing citrus note.
Method to the Madness
The beauty of Coconut Blossoms lies in their simplicity. The method is straightforward, allowing even novice bakers to shine. The combination of egg whites and sugar creates a meringue-like base that holds the coconut together while providing a chewy texture. The flour acts as a binder, ensuring the cookies maintain their shape. The surprise chocolate center adds an element of fun, making each bite a delightful experience.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
Coconut Blossoms are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later enjoyment. Here are some tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen—add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
FAQ
Can I use unsweetened coconut flakes instead of sweetened?
Yes, but keep in mind that unsweetened coconut will result in a less sweet cookie. You may want to adjust the sugar accordingly to maintain sweetness.
What can I use instead of Hershey’s Kisses?
You can replace them with any chocolate candy of your choice, such as chocolate chips, caramel-filled chocolates, or even peanut butter cups for a unique twist.
Can I make these Coconut Blossoms vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas), using about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
Why are my Coconut Blossoms flat?
Flat Coconut Blossoms are typically a result of overmixing the dough or not whipping the egg whites enough. Ensure you beat the egg whites until frothy and gently fold in the coconut mixture without deflating the batter.
One Pan, More Ideas
If you love the ease of one-pan recipes, here are some more delightful ideas to explore:
Ready to Cook?
With all the delicious details and tips at your fingertips, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bake some Coconut Blossoms! These little treats are not only a delight to eat but also a joy to make. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them yourself, they are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the sweet, coconutty goodness of these delightful Coconut Blossoms!
Coconut Blossoms
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Baking Sheet
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 large egg whites room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 14 ounces sweetened coconut flakes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 24 unwrapped Hershey's Kisses or your preferred chocolate candy
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk to beat the egg whites until they are frothy.
- Add the granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, and table salt to the frothy egg whites. Mix until well combined and the sugar dissolves.
- Gently fold in the sweetened coconut flakes and all-purpose flour. Be careful not to overmix.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each mound.
- Press a Hershey's Kiss into the center of each mound, ensuring it is secure but not completely submerged.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may still be soft.
- Allow the Coconut Blossoms to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week for longer storage.
- Freeze unbaked dough for up to 3 months; bake straight from frozen with added baking time.
