Chocolate Coconut Macaroons

Name: Chocolate Coconut Macaroons
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 macaroons
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded coconut; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup dark chocolate, for drizzling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore these Chocolate Coconut Macaroons! They are quick to whip up and are exceptionally satisfying with their chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor. Combining shredded coconut with smooth chocolate creates a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. I remember first making these for a last-minute dessert, and they were a hit! It became a regular in my kitchen, especially when I crave something sweet yet simple. Plus, they only require a few ingredients, making them convenient for spontaneous baking sessions.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:10:11.126Z

When I first tried these Chocolate Coconut Macaroons, I was amazed at how simple they were to make. The blend of flavors and textures makes each bite a delightful experience! I’ve experimented with different variations, and I found that using dark chocolate gives the macaroons a rich depth, perfecting the balance between sweetness and chocolatey goodness.

One tip I love is to let the macaroons cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a plate. This allows them to set perfectly, ensuring they hold their shape while remaining deliciously chewy inside. I promise you won’t regret making these!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet coconut flakes
Chewy and crispy texture in every bite
Perfect for quick desserts or special occasions

      

Understanding Ingredients

The key to achieving the perfect texture in these Chocolate Coconut Macaroons lies in the quality of shredded coconut you use. Opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to balance the sweetness from the condensed milk, allowing the rich chocolate flavor to shine through. If you're in a pinch, sweetened coconut can work, but reduce the amount of condensed milk slightly to avoid an overly sugary outcome. Remember, coconut adds a chewiness that complements the smoothness of the chocolate, so don't skip this important ingredient!

Sweetened condensed milk is not just a sweetener; it acts as a binder for your macaroons, giving them their characteristic chewy texture. If you prefer a dairy-free option, look for plant-based condensed milk alternatives, which are becoming increasingly available. Just ensure that the substitute retains a similar consistency so that your macaroons hold together beautifully after baking.

Expert Baking Tips

When reshaping the macaroons, ensure they are packed tightly to prevent them from spreading too much during baking. Using a small cookie scoop can help achieve uniform mounds, ensuring consistent baking times. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you'll want them to turn golden brown around the edges, which typically takes about 20 minutes in a preheated oven. Overbaking can lead to a crunchy macaroon instead of a chewy one, so set a timer and check for that perfect golden hue!

Cooling your macaroons fully on the baking sheet before drizzling with chocolate is essential. This prevents the melted chocolate from sliding off, ensuring each macaroon is beautifully coated. If you're looking to elevate the flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the drizzled chocolate. It creates an intriguing contrast with the sweetness of the macaroons, making each bite utterly irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Macaroons

3 cups shredded coconut
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup dark chocolate, for drizzling

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix well until the coconut is evenly coated.

Shape the Macaroons

Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into small mounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the macaroons are golden brown.

Melt the Chocolate

While the macaroons cool, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle it over the cooled macaroons. You can also melt the dark chocolate for extra decoration.

Cool and Serve

Allow the chocolate to set before serving. Enjoy your delicious chocolate coconut macaroons!

Pro Tips

For a variation, try adding some chopped nuts or dried fruits to the coconut mixture. Also, ensure that you are using sweetened shredded coconut for the best flavor and texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Once made, these Chocolate Coconut Macaroons can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their chewy texture, avoid refrigerating them, as cold temperatures can dry them out. If you plan to make these ahead of time, consider freezing them. Place the cooled macaroons in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer, making them a fantastic make-ahead dessert.

To defrost, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. If desired, you can re-drizzle them with fresh melted chocolate just before serving for an added touch of elegance. This way, you'll always have a delightful treat ready to impress your guests at a moment's notice.

Exploring Variations

Feel free to get creative with these macaroons! Try incorporating different extracts like almond or coconut to enhance the flavor profile even further. You can also mix in add-ons such as chocolate chunks or dried fruit, like cranberries or apricots, for a delightful surprise in every bite. If you're a fan of nuts, adding chopped pecans or walnuts can give a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft coconut center.

For a tropical twist, consider adding a tablespoon of lime zest to the mixture before baking. The lime's brightness will complement the sweetness of the coconut and chocolate, adding a refreshing element to each macaroon. Whatever variations you decide to try, just ensure to maintain a balance between wet and dry ingredients, so your macaroons stay perfectly chewy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut, but you may need to adjust the sweetness by adding more condensed milk or sugar.

→ How should I store the macaroons?

Store the macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze chocolate coconut macaroons?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for up to three months.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can substitute sweetened condensed milk with a vegan alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.