Chocolate Coconut Macaroons

Name: Chocolate Coconut Macaroons
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 20 macaroons
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups shredded coconut, unsweetened; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chips, for dipping

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Macaroons during the holidays! Their combination of rich chocolate and chewy coconut is simply irresistible. They are quick to whip up, and each bite delivers a delightful blend of flavors that transports me to a tropical paradise. Plus, they are gluten-free and a crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for gatherings. Whether I’m enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them with friends and family, these macaroons never fail to impress. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:06:34.752Z

When I first made these Chocolate Coconut Macaroons, I was astonished by how simple yet delicious they were. The key is to ensure that the coconut is well-coated in sweetened condensed milk before baking, which gives them that sticky texture that contrasts perfectly with the dark chocolate. I also experimented with different types of chocolate drizzles, and each brought a new dimension to the flavor.

One of my favorite tips is to let the macaroons cool completely before adding the chocolate drizzle. This way, the chocolate stays intact and doesn't melt away into a gooey mess. Each time I make them, they vanish quickly, and I love hearing how everyone enjoys the delightful chocolate and coconut harmony!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh coconut
Chewy texture that offers a delightful contrast to the chocolate
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet treat

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Coconut Macaroons has a distinct role that contributes to the overall texture and flavor. For instance, the unsweetened shredded coconut offers a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the richness of the dark chocolate. The sweetened condensed milk not only sweetens the macaroons but also binds the ingredients together, preventing them from crumbling during baking. Without it, the macaroons might not hold their shape and could turn out dry.

Additionally, using dark chocolate chips for dipping adds a luxurious touch. The bitterness of the dark chocolate balances the sweetness from the coconut and sweetened condensed milk, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. If dark chocolate isn't available, semi-sweet chocolate can be substituted, but be mindful that it will result in a sweeter macaroon than intended.

Baking Tips for Perfect Macaroons

One vital tip for achieving the perfect macaroon is to ensure even spacing on your baking sheet. Place the mounds about an inch apart to allow for slight spreading during baking. If they are too close together, they could merge into one another, losing their individual shape. When baking, keep an eye on them; they should be removed from the oven once they achieve a lovely golden brown color, which usually takes around 20 minutes.

Cooling the macaroons completely before dipping them in chocolate is essential. This step not only prevents the chocolate from melting upon contact but also helps maintain the structure of the macaroon. If you're pressed for time, consider placing the baked macaroons in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to accelerate the cooling process before dipping.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Chocolate Coconut Macaroons are set and the chocolate has hardened, you may want to store them. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer, you can freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before serving to maintain their chewy texture.

For serving ideas, consider presenting these macaroons alongside a tropical fruit platter, featuring items like pineapple and mango, to enhance the coconut flavors. You can also pair them with a rich espresso or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. This macaroon recipe is great for sharing at parties, and they can also be packaged as gifts—just make sure to wrap them nicely to showcase their tempting chocolatey goodness.

Ingredients

For the Macaroons

2 3/4 cups shredded coconut, unsweetened
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup dark chocolate chips, for dipping

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Shape the Macaroons

Using a tablespoon, scoop out the mixture and form it into small mounds on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.

Dip in Chocolate

Once cooled, melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip the bottom of each macaroon into the chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Place them back on the parchment to set.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped nuts or a dash of almond extract to the coconut mixture before baking.

Variations to Try

If you're feeling adventurous, you can customize the macaroons by adding mix-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit. A handful of chopped macadamia nuts would complement the coconut wonderfully and add a delightful crunch. Alternatively, incorporate some shredded pineapple for extra tropical flavor; just be sure to adjust the moisture levels if you add wet ingredients.

For a twist on the classic flavor, you could also try infusing the sweetened condensed milk with coconut extract or almond extract for a unique taste. Just be cautious with the quantity; a teaspoon should suffice to not overpower the original coconut flavor.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your macaroons end up being too dry, it might be an issue with baking time or the moisture content in your ingredients. Be sure to measure the coconut correctly; packing it too tightly could lead to dryness. Remember, a perfect macaroon should be chewy in the center, not crumbly or dry!

On the other hand, if your macaroons spread too much during baking, it could be due to the heat being too high. Ensure your oven is properly calibrated—an oven thermometer can help determine accurate temperature settings. Also, try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking; this can help maintain shape and provide that desired chewy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?

Yes, using sweetened coconut will result in a sweeter macaroon, which many people prefer.

→ How do I store leftover macaroons?

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

→ Can I freeze these macaroons?

Yes, you can freeze the baked macaroons for up to 2 months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before freezing.

→ What type of chocolate is best for dipping?

I recommend using dark chocolate for a rich flavor, but you can also use milk chocolate or white chocolate, depending on your preference.