Vanilla Almond Coconut Macaroons

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 8

Vanilla Almond Coconut Macaroons are a delightful treat that combines sweet coconut with a hint of almond and vanilla. These macaroons are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressively simple to make, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make with just a few ingredients.
  • Deliciously chewy with a nutty crunch.
  • Perfect for any occasion or as a quick snack.
  • Gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup almond flour
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
3 egg whites
1/2 cup sliced almonds

Step-by-step Instructions

First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your macaroons don’t stick and bake evenly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Make sure everything is well mixed to ensure even flavor distribution.

Add the vanilla and almond extracts to the dry ingredients and stir until they're fully incorporated. The extracts will give your macaroons a warm, inviting aroma.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they become frothy. This is key for achieving the right texture. Once frothy, gently fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep the air in the egg whites.

Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, scoop the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each mound to allow for even cooking.

Top each macaroon with a few sliced almonds for an extra touch of flavor and crunch. Now, they’re ready to bake!

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges and tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to avoid over-baking.

Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This helps them firm up and become the perfect texture for eating.

Tips & Tricks

  • For fluffier macaroons, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before whisking.
  • If you prefer a less sweet macaroon, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup.
  • Use a silicone baking mat if you don’t have parchment paper.

Serving Suggestions

These macaroons pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a simple dessert. For an elegant touch, consider serving them with a glass of dessert wine or a pot of fragrant herbal tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but you may want to increase the sugar slightly to maintain sweetness.
How do I store these macaroons?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Ingredients Explained

Sweetened shredded coconut provides the chewy texture and main flavor profile of the macaroons. Almond flour adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps bind the ingredients together. Granulated sugar sweetens the macaroons without overpowering their natural flavors. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors. Vanilla extract and almond extract add depth and aromatic notes. The beaten egg whites act as a binder and give the macaroons their light, airy texture. Finally, sliced almonds are used as a garnish to add a pleasant crunch and visual appeal.

Simplified Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a bowl, mix coconut, almond flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy, then fold into the coconut mixture.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds onto the prepared sheet.
6. Top each mound with a few sliced almonds for garnish.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
8. Cool on wire rack before serving.

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