Chocolate Coconut Macaroons

Name: Chocolate Coconut Macaroons
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 macaroons
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded coconut; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for topping)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Macaroons, as they combine rich flavors and delightful textures. The moment I tasted my first batch, I was hooked! Each bite is a harmony of chewy coconut and luscious chocolate, making these treats perfect for both snacking and special occasions. They require minimal ingredients and time, which adds to their charm. I know that once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your dessert repertoire, just as they have in mine!

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:04:13.597Z

When I first decided to try my hand at making Chocolate Coconut Macaroons, I had no idea how simple yet rewarding the process would be. Using just a few ingredients such as shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and dark chocolate, I created these delightful little confections in no time. The secret is to combine the ingredients well and let them rest before baking, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

Each time I pull a batch out of the oven, the chocolate drizzle on top makes my heart skip a beat. I love experimenting with the chocolate type, ranging from dark to semi-sweet, to see which one brings out the coconut flavor best. Trust me, these macaroons are bound to impress anyone who tries them!

        Why You'll Love These Macaroons
        Decadent chocolate on top adds a rich finish
Coconut provides a chewy and satisfying texture
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

      

The Role of Coconut

Coconut is the star ingredient in these macaroons, providing their signature chewy texture and tropical flavor. Using high-quality shredded coconut is essential; aim for unsweetened or lightly sweetened varieties for a more balanced sweetness. The moisture content in the coconut is vital, as it helps to bind the mixture without requiring additional flour or egg whites. If you prefer a finer texture, pulse the shredded coconut in a food processor before mixing; just be careful not to over-process it into a paste.

The amount of coconut can also be adjusted based on your preference. For a lighter macaroon, use 2 ½ cups of shredded coconut and reduce the sweetened condensed milk slightly. Conversely, if you want an extra-chewy texture, you can increase the coconut to 3 ½ cups. This flexibility allows you to tailor the cookies to your taste or dietary needs, making them even more fun to customize.

Chocolate Drizzle Techniques

Melting chocolate for drizzling requires a bit of finesse to achieve the perfect consistency. If using a microwave, heat the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth. This method prevents overheating that can cause the chocolate to seize. Alternatively, a double boiler allows for more control; simmer water in the bottom pot, ensuring it doesn’t touch the chocolate in the top pot. Whichever method you choose, the chocolate should be glossy and pourable when ready to use.

To give your macaroons a polished finish, I like to use a piping bag or a squeeze bottle for drizzling the melted chocolate. This technique allows you to create decorative patterns and ensures each macaroon gets a generous topping. If you want to make these treats even more visually appealing, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed nuts on top of the chocolate before it sets for a delicious flavor contrast.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These macaroons can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Allow the drizzled macaroons to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week, but for longer freshness, consider refrigerating them. Just be aware that cold temperatures can harden the chocolate, making it slightly less appealing. You can also freeze the macaroons for up to three months; simply thaw them in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their delightful texture.

When it comes to serving, pair these macaroons with a strong cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk to balance their sweetness. They also make for a fun addition to dessert platters, along with fruits or other bite-sized treats. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them with a dip of melted dark chocolate on the side for an extra indulgence that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

Ingredients

For the Macaroons

3 cups shredded coconut
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips (for topping)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Form the Macaroons

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form the mixture into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Drizzle

Remove from the oven and let them cool completely. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave or a double boiler. Once cool, drizzle the melted chocolate over the macaroons.

Enjoy these delicious macaroons with a cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some almond extract or dipping half of each macaroon in chocolate for an extra treat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, swap the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free version made from coconut milk or almond milk. These alternatives still provide that necessary sweetness and moisture to hold the macaroons together. Additionally, for a vegan option, ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free and check that your condensed milk substitute doesn’t contain animal products.

For an extra flavor twist, consider using flavored extracts, like almond or coconut, instead of vanilla. Just a teaspoon can enhance the overall taste of your macaroons. You can also experiment with add-ins such as dried fruits like cranberries or cherries, which would complement the coconut beautifully while adding a pop of color.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making macaroons is them spreading too much during baking, which can happen if the mixture is too wet or if the cookies are not spaced adequately. Ensure you’re using the correct measurements, and if your macaroons have spread, you might need to reduce the moisture by adding a bit more coconut next time.

If your macaroons aren't holding their shape, it might be due to not packing them tightly enough into balls. I always recommend packing the mixture firmly into your measuring spoon or scoop before placing them on the baking sheet. Lastly, ensure your oven is accurately preheated, as lower temperatures can lead to underbaked cookies that lack structure.

Making Ahead and Variations

These Chocolate Coconut Macaroons are perfect for make-ahead baking. You can prepare the macaroon mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This is particularly handy for parties or gatherings where you want to minimize last-minute tasks. Just give it a quick mix before scooping and baking to reactivate the moisture.

For a fun twist, try turning these macaroons into a layered treat. After baking and cooling, layer two macaroons with a dollop of coconut cream or whipped cream in between for a delightful dessert sandwich. You can also roll the chilled macaroons in crushed nuts or additional shredded coconut for an added texture and flavor boost.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, but you may want to adjust the sweetness by adding more sweetened condensed milk.

→ How do I store leftover macaroons?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I use other types of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate according to your preference.

→ Why did my macaroons spread out while baking?

This can happen if your mixture is too wet. Ensure the coconut is well-coated, but not overly saturated with condensed milk.