What makes a sweet treat truly unforgettable? It’s all about the combination of flavors and textures, like the chewy coconut and tart cherry in these easy homemade macaroons. Made with shredded coconut and fresh cherries, this quick dessert is a family favorite. Save this idea for your next weeknight dessert.

cherry topped coconut macaroons on a plate

Introduction

Imagine a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cherries with the richness of coconut, all in one delicious bite. Cherry topped coconut macaroons are a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings or a beautiful dish to impress your guests. The best part? These macaroons are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few everyday ingredients and minimal effort. With their perfect balance of flavors and textures, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of coconut and cherry provides a unique and delicious flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, the ingredients are easily accessible in most grocery stores.
• Ease of preparation: These macaroons require no baking and can be prepared in just a few simple steps, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute dessert needs.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite their ease of preparation, cherry topped coconut macaroons look and taste like a professional dessert, making them perfect for special occasions or potlucks.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, egg whites, vanilla extract, and maraschino cherries. You can also use unsweetened shredded coconut if you prefer a less sweet treat, and substitute the maraschino cherries with fresh or dried cherries if you like. Other ingredients include salt and confectioners’ sugar for dusting.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Open a can of sweetened condensed milk and scoop it into a large mixing bowl. Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded coconut, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whip 2 egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture until well combined. The mixture should be sticky but hold its shape when formed into balls.
3. Step 3: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form the coconut mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 macaroons. Place the macaroons on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a plate.
4. Step 4: Top each macaroon with a maraschino cherry. You can use the cherry with or without the stem, depending on your desired presentation. Place the macaroons in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.

Handy Tips

• To ensure your macaroons hold their shape, don’t overmix the coconut mixture. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are fully incorporated.
• If you find your macaroons too sticky, you can refrigerate them for 10-15 minutes to firm up before serving.
• Experiment with different types of cherries or flavor extracts to create unique variations of this recipe.

Heat Control

Since these macaroons are no-bake, you won’t need to worry about heat control. However, if you choose to toast your coconut in a pan for added flavor, be sure to stir constantly over low heat to prevent burning.

Crunch Factor

The coconut macaroons should be slightly crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside. If you prefer a crunchier exterior, you can chill the macaroons in the refrigerator for a longer period or add a sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar on top.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make your macaroons more visually appealing, you can drizzle them with melted chocolate or sprinkle with shredded coconut before serving.
• For an extra creamy treat, you can dip the bottom of each macaroon in melted chocolate before topping with a cherry.
• Consider using a variety of cherry types, such as Luxardo or Amarena, for a more complex flavor profile.

Storage Tips

• Store your cherry topped coconut macaroons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the macaroons without the cherry topping for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and top with a cherry before serving.
• When storing, be sure to keep the macaroons away from strong-smelling foods, as they can absorb odors easily.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These macaroons are perfect for gifting, especially during the holiday season. Consider packaging them in decorative tins, jars, or cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. You can also add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or a sprinkle of edible glitter on top of each macaroon.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of espresso powder to the coconut mixture for a unique flavor twist.
• Experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
• For a fruity variation, you can use dried cranberries or cherries instead of maraschino cherries.

Troubleshooting

• If your macaroons are too sticky, you may have overmixed the coconut mixture or used too much sweetened condensed milk. Try adding a bit more shredded coconut to balance the mixture.
• If your macaroons are too dry, you can try adding a bit more sweetened condensed milk or egg white to the mixture.
• If you find that your cherries are not sticking to the macaroons, you can try dipping the bottom of each cherry in a bit of melted chocolate before placing it on top of the macaroon.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the coconut macaroons without the cherry topping for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and top with a cherry before serving.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to make more macaroons. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and adjust the chilling time if needed.

Conclusion

Cherry topped coconut macaroons are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their unique flavor combination and beautiful presentation, they’re sure to impress your friends and family. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor variations to make this recipe your own. Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious cherry topped coconut macaroons!