Chocolate Coconut Macaroons

Name: Chocolate Coconut Macaroons
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 macaroons
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups shredded coconut; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Macaroons because they are the perfect sweet treat that combines rich chocolate with chewy coconut. Whenever I’m craving something decadent yet simple, these macaroons come to mind. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, and they're absolutely delightful, whether enjoyed on their own or served as a dessert at gatherings. Plus, the beauty of these macaroons lies in their versatility; you can customize them by adding different nuts or using dark chocolate. They have quickly become a staple in my kitchen!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:31:17.084Z

Making Chocolate Coconut Macaroons has been a joyful experience that allows me to indulge my love for chocolate and coconut. It's fascinating how just a few simple ingredients can result in such a delicious treat. My favorite part is watching them puff up in the oven and turn golden brown while their chocolate coating becomes glossy and rich.

I’ve discovered that the secret to achieving that perfect chewy texture is to mix the shredded coconut with sweetened condensed milk and let it rest a bit before shaping. This method enhances the flavors and allows the macaroons to hold their shape beautifully!

        Why You Will Love These Macaroons
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with chewy coconut
Simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser
Perfect for gifting or serving at special occasions

      

Mastering the Texture

The key to achieving that perfect chewy texture in your Chocolate Coconut Macaroons lies in your coconut selection. Opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to avoid overly sweet macaroons. This gives you the control to sweeten them to your liking while ensuring a delightful chew. As you mix, aim for a well-combined texture where the shredded coconut sticks together with the condensation from the milk. If your mixture feels too dry, a bit more sweetened condensed milk can bridge the gap.

Another technique is shaping the macaroons evenly. Whether using a small cookie scoop or your hands, try to keep them uniform in size—about 1-inch mounds—so they bake evenly. This ensures that each macaroon reaches that golden-brown exterior, while staying chewy on the inside. It takes about 20 to 25 minutes of baking; keep an eye on the edges turning golden to know they are ready.

Customizing Flavors

These macaroons offer a great base for customization. If you want to add a nutty twist, consider folding in chopped almonds or walnuts into the mixture. About 1/2 cup of nuts can enhance the texture and taste. For a tropical flair, a touch of almond extract can also complement the coconut beautifully. Remember to adjust the sweetness slightly if you're adding these extra ingredients, ensuring the balance still leans towards chewy goodness.

For chocolate lovers, using dark chocolate can deepen the flavor. Aim for a chocolate with at least 60% cocoa, as its richness will contrast wonderfully with the sweetness of the macaroons. If desired, sprinkle some sea salt over the dipped chocolate for an extra layer of taste that will make your macaroons even more irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Macaroons

2 1/2 cups shredded coconut
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until thoroughly mixed.

Shape the Macaroons

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

Bake

Bake the macaroons in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown on the edges. Keep a close eye on them!

Cool and Coat with Chocolate

Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. In the meantime, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip the bottom of each macaroon in the melted chocolate and return them to the parchment paper to set.

Serve

Let the chocolate harden completely before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Coconut Macaroons!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate before dipping the macaroons.

Storing and Freezing

After making these delightful Chocolate Coconut Macaroons, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their chewy texture, avoid placing them in the fridge, as this can cause them to dry out. If you’d like to enjoy them later, they freeze quite well. Just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving, and they'll retain their deliciousness.

When freezing, ensure they are fully cooled and the chocolate coating is set. If the chocolate is still soft, it might stick to other macaroons, which can make them difficult to separate later. It’s a good idea to double-check their firmness before storing them for long periods.

Serving Suggestions

These macaroons are wonderful on their own, but they can also be dressed up for special occasions. Consider serving them on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich dessert experience. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect addition to any gathering or brunch.

For a festive touch, try drizzling extra melted chocolate over the top after dipping for a decorative flair. Add colorful sprinkles or toasted coconut flakes on top before the chocolate sets for added visual appeal. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds extra layers of flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more sugar or sweetened condensed milk.

→ How do I store leftover macaroons?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these macaroons?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

You can make your own by simmering milk with sugar until it thickens, or try using a dairy-free version.