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Coconut Macaroons

These first-place coconut macaroons are delightfully chewy, golden cookies with a crisp exterior and a moist center. Made with only a handful of ingredients, they’re naturally gluten-free, easy to make, and perfect for gifting, holidays, or everyday snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut

1/3 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour if needed)

1/8 teaspoon salt

2 large egg whites

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine:

  • 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut

  • 1/3 cup sugar

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
    Stir together until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk:

  • 2 large egg whites

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until fully combined. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together but not runny.

Step 4: Shape the Macaroons
Using a teaspoon or a small cookie scoop, drop rounded mounds of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden brown and the edges start to crisp.

Step 6: Cool
Remove from oven and let the macaroons cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Texture Tip: Don’t overmix or overbake. The center should remain moist and chewy.

  • Flavor Variations:

    • Add 1 tsp lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.

    • Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent finish.

    • Fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped almonds for texture.

  • Storage:

    • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

    • Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to refresh texture.