Chocolate Coconut Macaroons
These Chocolate Coconut Macaroons are rich, fudgy, and perfectly chewy with cocoa, coconut, and egg whites. Simple to prepare and naturally gluten-free, they make an elegant treat for any occasion.
18 Servings
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups 254g unsweetened shredded coconut
- 3 large egg whites
- 3/4 cup 148g sugar (reduce to 1/4 cup if using sweetened coconut)
- 4 tablespoons 22g cocoa powder
- 5 tablespoons smooth applesauce
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Prepare the coconut:
- Pulse the shredded coconut in a food processor about ten times, or until it becomes coarsely ground. This step is optional but helps achieve a finer texture if desired.
Prepare the batter:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the egg whites, sugar, cocoa powder, and applesauce. Whisk together until smooth and well combined, but do not heat yet.
Cook the mixture:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens, turns pasty, and is hot to the touch. The texture should resemble glossy brownie batter.
Shape the macaroons:
- Remove from the heat. Using a cookie scoop or piping bag fitted with a large star tip, portion the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Each macaroon should be roughly the size of a walnut. Leave about an inch of space between each cookie.
Bake the macaroons:
- Sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt. Bake for approximately 12 minutes, or until the macaroons feel dry to the touch and yield slightly under gentle pressure. They should appear glossy on the surface but firm around the edges.
Cool and serve:
- Remove from the oven and allow the macaroons to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
This Chocolate Coconut Macaroons Recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no flour or gluten-containing ingredients. However, to ensure complete gluten safety, verify that your cocoa powder, shredded coconut, and flaky sea salt are labeled as gluten-free. If you plan to drizzle or dip them in chocolate, choose a certified gluten-free brand to avoid cross-contamination.