Chocolate Coconut Macaroons

Name: Chocolate Coconut Macaroons
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 macaroons
Ingredients: 3 cups flaked sweetened coconut; 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted (for dipping)

Highlighted under: Soft Collection

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Macaroons! These delightful treats are a favorite in my household and always bring joy to gatherings. With a crispy exterior and a chewy, sweet coconut center, they are simply irresistible. I often enjoy treating friends and family to these chewy delights, especially when dipped in rich dark chocolate. The combination of flavors is heavenly and satisfies every sweet tooth. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, which is a win in my book!

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:17:34.978Z

Trying out the Chocolate Coconut Macaroons was a delightful experience. I was inspired by a friend’s recipe and decided to give it a twist by adding a hint of vanilla. The aroma that filled my kitchen was amazing! I learned that to get the right texture, baking them just until golden brown is key—too little and they’ll be too soft, too much and they become dry.

As these macaroons baked, I melted dark chocolate for dipping and was amazed at how perfectly they paired. The balance of flavors really shines through, and I recommend allowing them to set in the fridge for a bit to enhance the flavors even more. These macaroons never last long at my parties!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with toasted coconut
Chewy texture that satisfies your sweet cravings
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

      

Mastering Texture

Achieving that perfect chewy texture in macaroons is all about the balance of ingredients. The sweetened condensed milk acts as a binding agent, giving them moisture without making them too dense. If your mixture feels too dry before baking, a small splash of extra condensed milk can help create that ideal consistency. When baking, keep a close eye on the macaroons as they approach the 12-minute mark; they should be lightly golden on the edges but remain pale in the center, ensuring a chewy interior.

It’s crucial to use flaked sweetened coconut instead of shredded coconut for the best results. Flaked coconut provides a better texture, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the chewy inside. If you can find unsweetened coconut flakes, you can reduce the overall sweetness by adjusting the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly to taste.

Chocolate Coating Tips

When melting the dark chocolate for dipping, using a double boiler is the best method to prevent overheating. Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring gently until melted and glossy. If the chocolate is too hot, it may seize when it contacts the cool macaroons, leading to clumping and an undesirable finish. If you don't have a double boiler, a microwave works too; heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until you achieve a smooth consistency.

If you want to elevate the chocolate-dipped macaroons even further, consider adding toppings like toasted coconut flakes, sea salt, or a drizzle of white chocolate after the dark chocolate has set. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also introduce contrasting textures and flavors, making your macaroons even more irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Macaroons

3 cups flaked sweetened coconut
2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted (for dipping)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flaked coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, salt, and flour. Stir until fully combined.

Shape the Macaroons

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

Bake

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Dip in Chocolate

Once cooled, dip the bottoms of each macaroon in melted dark chocolate and place them back on the wire rack. Allow the chocolate to set.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a few drops of almond extract to the coconut mixture. You can also sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets for a delightful contrast.

Storage and Freezing

Store your baked macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you plan to keep them longer, freezing is an excellent option. To freeze, place the cooled macaroons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Keep in mind that if your macaroons are already coated in chocolate, you should individually wrap them or store them in a single layer to prevent the chocolate from getting damaged or sticking to one another. Proper storage will help maintain their delicious texture and flavor for future enjoyment.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your macaroons by incorporating different flavors into the mixture. Adding a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla provides a lovely nutty undertone. You can also mix in mini chocolate chips or a handful of dried fruit like cranberries or cherries to give extra sweetness and flavor complexity. Just be cautious not to overdo the additional ingredients — a little goes a long way.

For a tropical twist, consider adding a tablespoon of lime zest to the macaroon batter. The citrusy note complements the coconut beautifully and provides a burst of freshness. You can even sprinkle some flaked coconut on top of the dipped chocolate for added texture and visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened coconut instead?

Yes, but you may want to adjust the sweetness by adding 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 in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these macaroons?

Absolutely! You can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat them gently in the oven when ready to enjoy.

→ Can I add flavors to the chocolate?

Yes! You can add a splash of vanilla or a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate for a delightful twist.