These chocolate chip coconut macaroons are the perfect treat for coconut lovers! They’re chewy, sweet, and packed with chocolate chips that make every bite a delight.
I love making these for friends because they disappear fast! Plus, they’re super easy—just mix, scoop, and bake. Who doesn’t love a good cookie moment? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweetened Shredded Coconut: This is the heart of the macaroon! You can use unsweetened coconut, but you’ll want to add more sugar if you do. If you’re dairy-free, check that your coconut is labeled so.
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar works best, but you can substitute coconut sugar for a different flavor and color. Just keep in mind, it might slightly alter the texture.
Egg Whites: These give your macaroons their structure. If you’re looking for an egg-free version, you can try aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute—about 3 tablespoons equals one egg white.
Chocolate Chips: I love using mini chocolate chips for a great chocolate-to-coconut ratio. Dark chocolate is a healthier option if you prefer less sweetness. You can also skip the chocolate altogether to keep it classic.
How Do I Ensure My Macaroons Stay Moist and Chewy?
The key to a delicious macaroon is the right baking time. Keep an eye on them as they bake; once they turn golden brown, they’re ready!
- Mix your coconut with the egg whites gently but thoroughly to keep air in the mixture.
- Use a cookie scoop for even sizes, so they bake uniformly.
- Let them cool completely on the baking sheet; this helps them firm up for a chewy texture.
And remember, they’re even better the next day as the flavors meld together—if they last that long!
Chocolate Chip Coconut Macaroons
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for garnish, optional)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, for melting (for dipping, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. After baking, you’ll need some time for the macaroons to cool down. If you decide to dip them in chocolate, add another 5-10 minutes for melting and setting. Total time: about 45-50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the shredded coconut, granulated sugar, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined.
3. Whisk Egg Whites:
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites and vanilla extract until they become lightly foamy. This will help add some airiness to your macaroons.
4. Mix It All Together:
Now, pour the egg white mixture into your coconut mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until everything is evenly mixed. Don’t worry if it feels a bit sticky!
5. Add Chocolate Chips:
Fold in the mini chocolate chips carefully, ensuring they are distributed throughout the coconut mixture.
6. Scoop the Mixture:
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded mounds of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced about 1 inch apart for even baking.
7. Add Extra Chocolate (Optional):
If you want to make them extra special, you can press a few extra mini chocolate chips on top of each macaroon for a decorative touch.
8. Bake:
Pop your baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroons are golden brown around the edges and on top.
9. Cool Down:
Once baked, remove the macaroons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling.
10. (Optional) Dip in Chocolate:
If you want to add a chocolate-dipped finish, melt 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
11. Final Touches:
Once the macaroons are cool, dip the bottoms into the melted chocolate and place them back on parchment paper to set.
12. Enjoy!
Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature, then your delicious macaroons are ready to serve! They pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Can I Use Unsweetened Coconut Instead?
Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut! If you do, just remember to increase the sugar by a few tablespoons to maintain the sweetness in your macaroons.
How Do I Store Leftover Macaroons?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I Make These Vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the egg whites with aquafaba. Use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white, and make sure to whip it until it’s light and frothy before mixing it into the coconut mixture.
What Should I Serve with Chocolate Chip Coconut Macaroons?
These macaroons are great on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside fresh fruit for a lovely contrast. Enjoy them with a nice cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat!
