Coconut Condensed Milk Macaroons are a classic treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth and delight coconut lovers everywhere. These macaroons are different from delicate French macarons—these are chewy, moist, and packed with rich coconut flavor. The best part? They’re made with only a handful of ingredients, so they’re incredibly easy to whip up. Sweetened condensed milk provides the perfect amount of sweetness and helps bind the shredded coconut together, resulting in a cookie that’s crispy on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just to enjoy a sweet snack at home, these macaroons are a simple yet indulgent choice. Let’s get baking and make these delicious, golden treats!
2. Ingredients
- 4 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 4 oz dark chocolate, melted (optional, for drizzling or dipping)
3. Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed and well-coated with the condensed milk.
- Form the Macaroons: Use a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture. Drop rounded heaps onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. You can shape them with your hands if needed, making sure each mound is compact.
- Bake: Bake the macaroons in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops and edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t burn.
- Cool: Allow the macaroons to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Drizzle or Dip in Chocolate (Optional): If desired, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-second intervals and stirring between each interval until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled macaroons or dip the bottoms of each macaroon in chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
- Serve: Let the chocolate set, then enjoy!
4. How to Prepare
To prepare these Coconut Condensed Milk Macaroons, all you need to do is mix together shredded coconut with sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and a hint of salt for balance. The sweetened condensed milk acts as both a sweetener and binder, giving the macaroons a chewy texture. Scoop the mixture onto baking sheets, bake until golden, and optionally dip or drizzle with chocolate to take these macaroons to the next level. The result is a chewy, perfectly sweet treat that’s crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. They are simple, yet incredibly satisfying!
5. Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe makes 24-28 macaroons, depending on the size of your scoops.
7. FAQs
Q1: Can I use unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened?
A: Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut if you prefer a less sweet treat. Just be aware that the macaroons will have a slightly different texture and flavor, and you may want to add a tablespoon or two of sugar to compensate.
Q2: Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
A: Absolutely! You can add mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried cranberries to the mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Q3: How do I store these macaroons?
A: Store the macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Q4: Can I freeze macaroons?
A: Yes, these macaroons freeze well. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q5: Why are my macaroons falling apart?
A: If your macaroons are falling apart, it might be because they weren’t pressed together tightly enough before baking. Be sure to press each mound firmly so that the coconut mixture holds together during baking.
8. Conclusion
Coconut Condensed Milk Macaroons are a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of coconut in a quick and easy treat. These macaroons have a wonderful balance of crispy edges and chewy centers, and their naturally sweet flavor is perfectly complemented by the optional addition of dark chocolate. With only a handful of ingredients and just a few simple steps, they are ideal for any occasion, from holidays and parties to a regular afternoon snack. They’re so easy to make that even beginner bakers will find success with this recipe. Whether you enjoy them plain, drizzled, or dipped in chocolate, these macaroons are sure to satisfy your coconut cravings. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!