There’s something magical about biting into a Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroon. The crispy exterior crumbles softly as the sweet, chewy coconut greets your taste buds, while the tart cherry on top adds a delightful burst of flavor. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. This treat is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that wraps you in nostalgia and warmth. For more inspiration, check out this Thick and Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
- How do I prevent my macaroons from falling apart?
- What can I substitute for cherries on top?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made these delightful morsels for a family gathering. Everyone’s eyes lit up as I placed the tray on the table, and I could hardly contain my excitement when they disappeared faster than I could keep track. southern comfort food Perfect for holidays, brunches, or simply satisfying that sweet tooth, these macaroons are bound to become a cherished recipe in your home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip these up quickly while enjoying their rich coconut flavor
- Visually stunning with their glossy cherries on top, they are perfect for any occasion
- Versatile enough to adapt to your favorite toppings or flavors, these macaroons will impress family and friends alike
- Plus, they are gluten-free, making them a fantastic option for everyone!
I once made these Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons for my best friend’s birthday party, and let’s just say her reaction was priceless—she literally danced with joy! cajun pasta skillet. sweet and spicy chicken pasta.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Look for fresh coconut that’s moist but not overly sticky; it holds the macaroon together beautifully.
- Egg Whites: Use large eggs; they help bind the mixture while still keeping it light and airy.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar works best to achieve that perfect sweetness without being overpowering.
- Vanilla Extract: Choose pure vanilla extract for a richer flavor profile that complements the coconut perfectly.
- Maraschino Cherries: Opt for bright red cherries that add both color and tartness to each macaroon.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix shredded coconut, egg whites, sugar, and vanilla extract until fully combined. The mixture should feel sticky but hold its shape when pressed.
Scoop Mixture: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each mound; they will expand slightly while baking.
Add Cherry Topping: Gently press half a maraschino cherry onto the top of each mound before placing them in the oven. This step adds both beauty and extra flavor.
Bake Them Up: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on the edges. Keep an eye on them; we want crispy outsides but chewy centers!
Cool & Enjoy: Allow macaroons to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature—if they last that long!
With each bite of these Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons, you’ll be transported back to joyous moments filled with laughter and love. They’re easy enough to whip up during those busy weekdays but fancy enough for special occasions like birthdays or holiday gatherings. festive holiday treats So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this deliciously nostalgic treat!
You Must Know
- The key to irresistible Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons is balancing the sweet with a hint of salt
- Make sure to toast your coconut for that golden crunch
- Fresh cherries add a juicy burst, making every bite feel like a delightful surprise!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix your ingredients while waiting for it to heat up. Once ready, scoop the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherries for other fruits like strawberries or raspberries. You could also dip half of each macaroon in chocolate for an indulgent twist. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises!
Storing & Reheating
Store your Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want them warm, simply pop them back in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. For more inspiration, check out this Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests recipe.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whipping
- Avoid overmixing the coconut mixture; it should be just combined
- Lastly, let them cool slightly before trying to remove from baking sheets to avoid crumbling
There was one time my friend brought these macaroons to a potluck, and they vanished faster than my willpower around chocolate! People were fighting over the last piece, which made me realize I had truly mastered this recipe.
FAQ
Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
Absolutely! Sweetened coconut will enhance the sweetness of your macaroons.
How do I prevent my macaroons from falling apart?
Make sure your mixture is well-combined and allow them to cool before removing.
What can I substitute for cherries on top?
Fresh berries or even small pieces of dried fruit work wonderfully as substitutes!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons are the perfect blend of crispy and chewy, featuring a delightful burst of tart cherry atop a rich coconut base. These gluten-free treats are not just delicious but also easy to make, making them ideal for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to satisfying sweet cravings. With their nostalgic flavors, these macaroons will surely become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 large egg whites
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 12 maraschino cherries (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded coconut, egg whites, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined; the mixture should be sticky and hold its shape.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Gently press half a maraschino cherry onto each mound.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them for desired crispiness.
- Allow macaroons to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 macaroon (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
