The best Easiest Coconut Macaroons Recipe You’ll Ever Make (Ready in 20 Minutes)

Looking for a recipe coconut macaroons that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor? These sweet, chewy treats need just 3 ingredients and 20 minutes of your time. Unlike complex desserts that demand precision and practice, these foolproof coconut delights are nearly impossible to mess up.

Surprisingly, these Coconut Macaroon Bites have become a staple in many home bakers’ repertoires specifically because they’re so approachable. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, you’ll achieve bakery-quality results with golden, crispy edges and a soft, moist center. Additionally, they’re naturally gluten-free, making them perfect for serving to guests with dietary restrictions.

This guide walks you through each simple step to create perfect macaroons every time. We’ll cover the essential ingredients, the quick preparation process, and helpful tips for achieving the ideal texture. You’ll also discover easy ways to customize your macaroons and proper storage techniques to keep them fresh.

The 3 ingredients you need for Coconut Macaroons

The beauty of this recipe coconut macaroons lies in its simplicity. While many desserts call for a long list of ingredients, these delectable treats require just three pantry staples. The magic happens when these humble components come together, creating something far greater than the sum of their parts.

Sweetened shredded Coconut Macaroons

The foundation of any good macaroon is, naturally, coconut. For this recipe, you’ll need one 14-ounce bag of sweetened flaked coconut, which equals approximately 5⅓ cups [1]. The sweetened variety is crucial for achieving the perfect macaroon texture and flavor.

Sweetened coconut contains additional moisture and sugar, giving your macaroons that classic chewy interior and slightly crisp exterior. Furthermore, this type of coconut is particularly sticky, which helps the cookies hold their shape during baking [2].

When selecting coconut for your macaroons, brands do matter. Many professional bakers recommend Baker’s Angel Flake Sweetened Coconut for consistent results [3]. The texture of the coconut also impacts your final product—finer pieces help macaroons hold their shape better. Consequently, some bakers pulse the coconut briefly in a food processor to break down the shreds slightly [2].

Sweetened condensed milk

The second essential ingredient is a 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. This thick, sweet liquid acts as both a binding agent and sweetener [4].

Sweetened condensed milk is essentially milk that has had water removed and sugar added, creating a sticky-sweet substance that’s perfect for macaroons [5]. The viscosity of this ingredient helps hold everything together without requiring flour, making these treats naturally gluten-free.

One important note: while many recipes call for using the entire can of sweetened condensed milk, this can sometimes create too much liquid in your batter. For optimal results, some experts recommend using slightly less than a full can (leaving about 2 tablespoons behind) to prevent the batter from spreading too much during baking [6].

Don’t confuse sweetened condensed milk with evaporated milk, as the latter is unsweetened and much thinner—it won’t work in this recipe [4].

Vanilla extract

The final ingredient, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, might seem minor compared to the others, but it adds significant depth to your macaroons [1].

This subtle flavor enhancer balances the sweetness of the coconut and condensed milk while adding a warm, aromatic quality. Pure vanilla extract (rather than imitation) delivers the best flavor [3]. Although it’s a small amount, the vanilla transforms these cookies from merely sweet to genuinely flavorful.

While these three ingredients form the core of the recipe, some variations might include additional elements such as salt, egg whites, or almond extract. Nevertheless, the beauty of this particular recipe is that you can achieve perfect coconut macaroons with just these three primary ingredients.

The simplicity of these ingredients makes this recipe particularly accessible—no special shopping trips required. Most likely, you already have vanilla extract in your pantry, meaning you’re just a quick store run away from homemade coconut macaroon bliss.

How to make coconut macaroons in 20 minutes

Making coconut macaroons at home couldn’t be easier. The entire process takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making these sweet treats perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a quick dessert fix. The best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or techniques to achieve bakery-quality results.

Step 1: Preheat and prep your baking sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) [1]. This temperature creates the perfect environment for achieving golden exteriors while maintaining moist centers. For best results, position your oven rack in the bottom third of the oven to ensure even heat distribution [7].

Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat [7]. This crucial step prevents the macaroons from sticking and makes cleanup incredibly simple. The parchment also helps the macaroons bake evenly, creating that perfect golden-brown base.

If you’re looking for an extra depth of flavor, you can optionally toast your coconut before mixing. Simply spread it on the baking sheet and toast for about 5 minutes until just barely showing color [7]. This step is entirely optional but adds a wonderful nutty dimension.

Step 2: Mix all ingredients in one bowl

Now for the truly simple part—combine all three ingredients in a large bowl. Mix together the sweetened flaked coconut (about 5⅓ cups), one 14-oz can of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract [1].

Using a sturdy spoon or your hands, stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined and the coconut is completely coated with the sweetened condensed milk [1]. The mixture will be quite sticky and thick—this is exactly what you want for macaroons that hold their shape. Take your time with this step, as proper mixing ensures even distribution of moisture.

Unlike more complex cookie recipes, there’s no need to worry about overmixing or developing gluten. Simply stir until everything is evenly moistened and well incorporated.

Step 3: Scoop and shape the macaroons

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to form the macaroons. For consistent results, use a small ice cream scoop or two spoons to portion out approximately 1½ tablespoons of mixture for each cookie [1]. This creates perfectly sized macaroons that are neither too large nor too small.

Arrange the scooped portions on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each [1]. The macaroons won’t spread much during baking, but this spacing ensures proper air circulation for even browning.

If the mixture sticks to your scoop or spoons, try wetting your hands or tools with a little water [7]. This prevents sticking and helps create neater, more uniform shapes. For a more rustic look, you can simply use two forks to shape rough mounds directly on the baking sheet [8].

Step 4: Bake until golden brown

Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the macaroons turn a beautiful golden brown around the edges and on top [1]. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your macaroons.

For even baking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time [9]. This ensures all the macaroons brown evenly, regardless of potential hot spots in your oven.

Once done, remove the macaroons from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes [1]. This brief cooling period allows the macaroons to set up properly. Afterward, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.

Following these four simple steps will result in perfectly baked Coconut Macaroon Bites every time—crispy and golden on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside.

Tips to get the perfect texture Coconut Macaroons

The difference between good and great coconut macaroons often comes down to texture. Even with our simple recipe coconut macaroons, a few technical considerations can elevate your Coconut Macaroon Bites from merely tasty to truly exceptional. These three key factors will help you achieve that perfect balance of crispy exterior and chewy interior every time.

Use the right type of coconut

The type of coconut you select fundamentally impacts your macaroons’ texture. For this recipe, sweetened flaked coconut is ideal as it contains additional moisture that creates that classic chewy interior. Many professional bakers specifically recommend Baker’s Angel Flake for consistent results.

If you’re using unsweetened coconut instead, be aware that it’s drier and will absorb more moisture. Under those circumstances, you’ll need to increase the ratio of condensed milk to compensate. As one expert notes, “unsweetened shredded coconut is light and dry” and requires additional moisture to prevent dryness in your finished macaroons.

The texture of your coconut matters as well. Finer shreds help macaroons hold their shape better than longer flakes. In fact, if you find your coconut pieces are particularly large, consider pulsing them briefly in a food processor. This creates more uniform pieces that bind together more effectively.

Avoid overmixing the batter

Overmixing is a common pitfall that can ruin the texture of your Coconut Macaroon Bites. When combining ingredients, mix just until everything is evenly incorporated. Excessive mixing deflates the mixture and can result in dense, tough macaroons rather than light, chewy ones.

The ideal consistency should be somewhat sticky yet still retain some fluffiness. When working with recipes that include egg whites, this becomes especially important. As noted in the factual keypoints, you should “fold beaten egg white into the coconut mixture” gently, without worrying about deflating the whites completely.

For our three-ingredient version, simply stir until the coconut is fully coated with condensed milk, then stop. The mixture should hold together when scooped without being runny or compacted.

Let them cool before removing

Perhaps the most overlooked step in achieving perfect texture is proper cooling. After baking, allow your macaroons to rest on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before attempting to move them. This cooling period is crucial for texture development.

During this rest time, the macaroons continue to set up, solidifying their structure. Importantly, if you try to remove them too soon, “they will not have ‘set’ yet and may crumble,” as one expert baker warns. The interior remains quite soft immediately after baking, despite the golden exterior.

After the initial rest on the baking sheet, transfer the macaroons to a wire rack to cool completely. This dual-stage cooling process ensures both the exterior and interior textures develop properly. Complete cooling also makes chocolate dipping (if desired) much easier, since warm macaroons might not hold together properly when handled.

With these three simple yet critical techniques, your recipe coconut macaroons will achieve that perfect bakery-quality texture – golden and slightly crisp on the outside while remaining beautifully moist and chewy inside.

Easy ways to customize your Coconut Macaroons

While the classic recipe coconut macaroons are delicious on their own, simple additions can transform them into impressive gourmet treats. These easy customizations require minimal effort yet dramatically enhance your Coconut Macaroon Bites.

Dip in melted chocolate

Chocolate-dipped macaroons balance sweetness with rich complexity. For best results, melt high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate, as the bittersweet flavor beautifully complements the sweet coconut. As Chef John notes, “Even first-time cookie makers can pull off super moist, tender, chewy macaroons” with chocolate enhancement [10].

To dip your macaroons, first allow them to cool completely. Subsequently, melt chocolate in a microwave at 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Dip each macaroon about 1/8 inch into the chocolate, then place on parchment paper to set [11]. Notably, you can drizzle additional chocolate over the tops for a more elegant presentation [12].

Add mini chocolate chips

Folding mini chocolate chips directly into your macaroon mixture creates delightful pockets of melty chocolate throughout. According to experts, you can add up to 2/3 cup of semisweet mini chocolate chips to your base recipe [13]. Alternatively, if you prefer white chocolate, that works equally well.

Mix in citrus zest or almond extract

Flavor variations bring new dimensions to classic macaroons. For citrus lovers, orange zest paired with chocolate creates a sophisticated flavor profile. One popular variation involves replacing vanilla with 1 teaspoon of pure orange extract [14].

Almond extract likewise transforms these treats—try substituting it for vanilla in the base recipe. Moreover, for coffee enthusiasts, experiment with adding 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules for mocha-flavored macaroons [14].

Shape into nests for holidays

Coconut macaroons make adorable edible decorations, particularly for spring celebrations. Shape the mixture into small nests with indentations before baking. Afterward, fill the centers with colorful chocolate candies like M&M’s or mini chocolate eggs for festive appeal [10].

If you’re having trouble forming shapes, one practical solution is using a mini muffin pan. Spray it generously with cooking spray, drop spoonfuls of mixture into each cup, press lightly, and bake as directed [15]. This technique creates perfectly uniform shapes without frustration.

Through these simple customizations, your basic coconut macaroons can become signature treats tailored to any occasion or preference.

How to store and freeze Coconut Macaroons

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the texture and flavor of your freshly made recipe coconut macaroons. Whether you’ve made a small batch or several dozen Coconut Macaroon Bites, knowing the right storage methods ensures you can enjoy them at their best for days or even months to come.

Coconut Macaroons storage

For short-term enjoyment, store your coconut macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature. Under these conditions, they’ll maintain their quality for up to three days [16]. Some sources suggest they can last up to a week on the counter [5], though the exterior may soften slightly overnight [17].

To preserve texture, ensure your macaroons are completely cooled before storing them. This prevents moisture buildup that could make them soggy [18]. Keep the container away from direct sunlight or heat sources that might melt or alter their texture [19].

Refrigeration tips

For extending shelf life beyond a few days, refrigeration is ideal. In the refrigerator, coconut macaroons remain fresh for 1-2 weeks [20] when properly stored. Place them in an airtight container, ideally arranging them in a single layer to maintain their shape.

If you need to stack macaroons, place sheets of parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking [4]. This technique is particularly important if your macaroons have chocolate decoration, as it helps prevent smudging.

When ready to enjoy refrigerated macaroons, allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving [21]. This rest period restores their original texture – that perfect balance of crispy exterior and chewy interior.

Freezing instructions

For long-term storage, freezing is remarkably effective. Properly frozen macaroons can maintain quality for up to three months [16][4]. Here’s how to freeze them successfully:

1. Cool completely after baking
2. Flash freeze by placing macaroons on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing for 30-60 minutes [22]
3. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, with parchment paper between layers [17]
4. Label with the date to track freshness

When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen macaroons overnight in the refrigerator [23] or for about an hour at room temperature [24]. This gradual thawing prevents condensation that could make them soggy. Some bakers even suggest reheating them briefly (about 5 minutes at 300°F) to restore their crispy exterior [5].

Finally, once thawed, never refreeze macaroons, as this significantly impacts their texture and flavor [23].

Conclusion

These coconut macaroons truly stand out as one of the simplest yet most rewarding treats you can bake at home. Certainly, their minimal ingredient list and quick preparation time make them perfect for both planned gatherings and spontaneous baking sessions. Additionally, their naturally gluten-free nature ensures everyone at your table can enjoy these delightful treats without worry.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its flexibility. Whether you prefer the classic version or want to experiment with chocolate dipping, flavor extracts, or festive shapes, these macaroons provide an excellent canvas for creativity. Specifically, the chocolate-dipped variation transforms these humble cookies into desserts worthy of any special occasion.

Texture remains the hallmark of perfect macaroons—crispy on the outside, chewy and moist on the inside. Following the storage recommendations will help maintain this ideal texture, regardless of whether you enjoy them immediately or freeze them for later consumption. Most importantly, proper cooling before storage prevents moisture buildup that could compromise their delightful consistency.

First-time bakers and experienced pastry chefs alike can achieve excellent results with this foolproof recipe. Therefore, next time you crave a sweet treat but lack the time or patience for complex baking, remember these three-ingredient wonders. After all, sometimes the simplest recipes yield the most satisfying results.

References Coconut Macaroons

References

[1] – https://www.justataste.com/3-ingredient-coconut-macaroons-recipe/
[2] – https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/coconut-macaroons/
[3] – https://entertainingwithbeth.com/coconut-macaroons-with-condensed-milk/
[4] – https://bakeorbreak.com/2022/12/coconut-macaroons/
[5] – https://thisishowicook.com/how-to-store-coconut-macaroons-recipe/
[6] – https://www.lovefromtheoven.com/macaroons/
[7] – https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-easy-coconut-macaroons-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-186918
[8] – https://www.jennycancook.com/recipes/easy-coconut-macaroons/
[9] – https://www.simplyrecipes.com/three-ingredient-coconut-macaroon-recipe-8756649
[10] – https://www.allrecipes.com/gallery/coconut-macaroon-recipes/
[11] – https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/266645/chocolate-dipped-coconut-macaroons/
[12] – https://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/coconut-macaroons-dipped-in-chocolate/
[13] – https://www.food.com/recipe/chocolate-chip-macaroons-43364
[14] – https://www.food.com/recipe/coconut-macaroons-with-flavor-variations-240933
[15] – https://princesspinkygirl.com/macaroon-recipe/
[16] – https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/25787/coconut-macaroons-iii/
[17] – https://www.sandravalvassori.com/coconut-macaroons/
[18] – https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-best-way-to-store-coconut-macaroons-and-how-do-you-make-coconut-macaroons
[19] – https://cooklist.com/products/snacks/cookies/coconut-macaroon
[20] – https://www.piesandtacos.com/how-to-store-macarons/
[21] – https://pastreez.com/blogs/news/how-to-store-macarons?srsltid=AfmBOoqMMtq9tALhNFm5cofgu-scn-5HcBB08Y3Q8feXJf8E6QJRKq6P
[22] – https://www.simplejoy.com/coconut-macaroons/
[23] – https://www.nigella.com/ask/freezing-coconut-macaroons
[24] – https://dannymacaroons.com/blogs/macaroons/how-to-store-coconut-macaroons

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