Coconut Macaroons: Gluten, Dairy and Nut Free Cookies

Coconut Macaroons bring delightful sweetness to any occasion. I love their crispy edges and chewy centers. They are perfect for quick snacks or dessert tables.

Easy coconut macaroon recipe

Coconut macaroons are made from shredded coconut, sugar, and egg whites. It is a popular dessert or snack, especially during Passover and Christmas. These cookies have a crispy and slightly caramelized outer layer and a soft and moist filling.

Simple coconut macaroons on the baking tray
Mini coconut macaroon biscuits

These macaroons and French macarons are cousins. They share a similar meringue base. However, macaroons use desiccated coconut instead of ground almonds. They are easier to make and require little preparation. Their measurements do not need to be exact. The egg whites do not need to be whipped to stiff peaks.

Macaroons are naturally nut, dairy, and gluten-free. They offer a light, airy alternative to heavier cakes and other desserts. Here is how to make chocolate coconut macaroons. 

Healthy coconut macaroons

Coconut Macaroons

Gluten, Dairy and Nut Free treats.
4 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean
Servings 8
Calories 114 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 egg whites
  • 75 g caster sugar
  • 175 g dessicated coconut
  • A few drops of Vanilla essence
  • A sprinkle of salt
  • 40 g dark chocolate dairy free

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 160oC. Grease a flat baking tray and line with baking parchment.
  • Whisk the egg whites in a large bowl until foamy, then add the caster sugar, vanilla essence and a dash of salt. Whisk until the mixture is thick and glossy, but not so that it is stiff.
  • Tip in the desiccated coconut and fold in with a spoon until it is all combined.
  • With wet hands (to stop the mixture sticking to them – otherwise you get into a real mess!) scoop up about half a handful of the mixture and mould into a small dome, then place onto the baking sheet. Continue until you have used up all the mixture – it should make about 8 macaroons.
  • Bake for 15-20 mins, or until the macaroons are going golden-brown.
  • Remove baking parchment, with macaroons attached, and place onto a wire rack to let the macaroons cool.
  • Once cool, use a palette knife to carefully remove the macaroons from the parchment. Melt the chocolate in a bowl over a pan of boiling water, then use a small spoon to drizzle the chocolate over the macaroons.

Notes

To store coconut macaroons, keep them in an airtight box and place them in a cool place. These cookies can stay fresh for about a week in the refrigerator.
Freeze them for up to three months. To freeze, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw at room temperature until they soften before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 114kcalCarbohydrates: 11.4gProtein: 2.7gFat: 7.1gSaturated Fat: 6.3gSodium: 43mgFiber: 2.1gSugar: 8.5g
Keyword baking recipes, coconut macaroons, dairy-free dessert, gluten-free recipe, homemade dessert, Italian recipes
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Pairing suggestions

Here are some popular options to serve macaroons with:

  1. Drinks
    • Piña coladas pair well with pineapple-infused macaroons.
    • A bubbly coconut cocktail uses coconut juice, cream, lemon juice, and mint garnish.
    • A macaroon cookie cocktail combines syrup, coconut rum, and crème de cacao.
    • A vegan latte features espresso, coconut milk, and nutpods.
  2. Topping Ideas
    • Chocolate drizzle enhances the richness of coconut macaroons.
    • Pineapple sauce brightens the flavor of macaroons.
    • Almonds provide crunch to chewy macaroons.
    • Whipped cream makes macaroons indulgent when paired with fruits.

Variations

Coconut macaroons can be customized in numerous ways. Here are several delicious variations to try:

  1. Coconut Raspberry Macaroons incorporate raspberries into the base for fruity flavor. Raspberry tartness complements coconut sweetness perfectly.
  2. Almond Infusion adds almond extract for a nutty flavor.
  3. Citrus zest infuses macaroons with a refreshing aroma.
  4. Nutty Variations mix dried fruits and nuts for enhanced texture.
  5. Chocolate-Dipped Macaroons dip baked macaroons in melted chocolate for richness.
  6. Filipino Versions are lighter and softer than regular macaroons. This version uses coconut, butter, sugar, eggs, and condensed milk.
  7. Chocolate Coconut Cherry Macaroons add mini chocolate chips and diced cherries to the batter.
  8. Healthy Versions replace sugar with monk fruit sweeteners for a healthier version.

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