✨ Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of coconut and chocolate baking together in the oven. These Chocolate Coconut Macaroons are chewy on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and irresistibly rich with chocolatey sweetness.
This recipe is a favorite in my kitchen — simple, quick, and absolutely foolproof. With just one bowl and a few pantry ingredients, you can create bakery-quality cookies that melt in your mouth and vanish fast. Whether you’re baking for a party, the holidays, or an everyday treat, these macaroons are always a crowd-pleaser.
💖 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy & Foolproof: Only one bowl and no mixer needed.
- Perfectly Chewy Texture: Golden edges with a moist, tender center.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Made with shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk — no flour required.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish.
- Customizable: Add nuts, drizzle chocolate, or top with sprinkles for any occasion.
📝 Ingredients
Base Macaroon Mixture
- 14 oz (5 cups) sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Chocolate Add-Ins
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
Optional Flavor Boosters
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for a deeper chocolate flavor)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
- ¼ cup sprinkles or colored sugar (for decoration)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1 — Prep Your Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Step 2 — Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the coconut is fully coated and the mixture looks glossy and sticky.
Step 3 — Add Chocolate & Optional Ingredients
Gently fold in chocolate chips (and cocoa powder, if using). If adding nuts, mix them in now. Combine just until everything is evenly distributed — overmixing can make the batter heavy.
Step 4 — Scoop the Macaroons
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop 1.5–2 tablespoon mounds onto your prepared sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each. Press the tops lightly to shape and stabilize.
Step 5 — Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the tops look slightly toasted. Watch closely during the last few minutes — every oven varies.
Step 6 — Cool Completely
Let the macaroons cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Step 7 — Optional Decoration
Once cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate or dip the bottoms for a bakery-style finish. You can also sprinkle colored sugar or coconut flakes for a festive look.
🍫 Variations & Creative Twists
- Dark Chocolate Dream: Use 70% dark chocolate chips and a tablespoon of espresso powder for an intense mocha bite.
- Tropical Delight: Add chopped dried pineapple or mango pieces for a vacation-inspired treat.
- Almond Joy Style: Mix in sliced almonds and drizzle with melted milk chocolate.
- Peppermint Holiday Version: Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes.
- White Chocolate Raspberry: Fold in dried raspberries and drizzle with melted white chocolate.
🧠 Expert Baking Tips
- Use fresh, moist coconut for the best chew and texture.
- Avoid overmixing once the chocolate is added — too much stirring makes the cookies dense.
- Watch the edges: When they turn golden, they’re ready!
- Cool before storing to prevent sogginess.
- Dip the bottoms in chocolate for a polished, professional presentation.
🧊 Make Ahead & Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerator: Lasts up to 7 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze in layers with parchment between them for up to 3 months. Thaw 30 minutes before enjoying.
- Make Ahead Tip: Shape unbaked macaroons and freeze them on a tray. Bake straight from frozen (add 2–3 extra minutes).
🍨 How to Serve
- Classic Dessert: Enjoy them as-is with a glass of milk or cup of coffee.
- Fancy Touch: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Party Platter: Pair with brownies and fruit tarts for a dessert spread.
- Gift Idea: Pack in a decorative tin or jar — they make wonderful edible gifts!
- Dessert Upgrade: Crumble over yogurt or parfaits for crunch and sweetness.
⚖️ Nutrition Information (Approx. per macaroon)
Calories: 165 kcal | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Carbohydrates: 20g | Sugar: 16g | Fiber: 1g | Protein: 2g | Sodium: 40mg
(Values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use unsweetened coconut?
You can, but you’ll need to slightly increase the condensed milk or add 2 tablespoons of sugar for balance.
Q2: Why did my macaroons spread?
This usually happens if the mixture is too wet or your oven temperature is too low. Make sure to preheat fully and don’t overmix.
Q3: Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free condensed coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Q4: Can I dip them in chocolate?
Absolutely — melted dark or semi-sweet chocolate makes them look elegant and adds richness.
👩🍳 About Emily
Hi, I’m Emily, the founder of NRRECIPES. I’m passionate about creating approachable, flavor-packed recipes that bring joy to everyday cooking. Each dish is tested, loved, and made to inspire your kitchen confidence — because good food should be simple, fun, and absolutely delicious.