Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love a bit of tropical flair, you are going to adore this Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons Recipe. These delightful cookies marry the chewy, rich texture of coconut macaroons with the bright, juicy pop of maraschino cherries on top. Perfectly golden edges with a moist, tender center make every bite a little celebration of flavor and texture. Whether it’s a holiday treat, an after-dinner indulgence, or just some fun baking to share with friends, this Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons Recipe will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and color. From creamy condensed milk to fresh egg whites that give lift, every component is thoughtfully chosen to craft these irresistible treats.

• Sweetened condensed milk: Provides the perfect creamy sweetness and helps bind the coconut together.
• Large egg whites (2, beaten stiff): Add lightness and hold the macaroons’ structure for that tender, chewy texture.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Sweetened flaked coconut (14 ounces / about 5 1/3 cups): The star ingredient that brings chewy, tropical goodness to every bite.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic depth that complements the coconut.
• Maraschino cherries (15 cherries, halved): For a glossy, colorful topper that brightens the cookies visually and with a hint of fruity charm.

How to Make Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons Recipe

Step 1: Prepare for baking

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This keeps your macaroons from sticking and browns them evenly. Avoid foil since it can cause sticking, which is the last thing you want after all your hard work.

Step 2: Beat the egg whites

Beat the two large egg whites with the salt until they form stiff peaks. This step is crucial because these fluffy whites bring lightness and structure to the macaroons, preventing them from becoming dense or soggy.

Step 3: Combine the base ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, sweetened flaked coconut, and vanilla extract thoroughly. This mixture is rich and sticky, forming the backbone of your macaroons’ chewy texture.

Step 4: Fold in the egg whites

Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture with care. You want to keep as much air as possible to keep the macaroons light but still moist. Once combined, chill the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes. The chilling helps the mixture firm up so it scoops nicely.

Step 5: Scoop and top with cherries

Using a small cookie scoop or two teaspoons, drop rounded heaps of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheets. Place a halved maraschino cherry on top of each cookie, pressing lightly so it sticks but doesn’t sink in too much. This little burst of cherry adds a pop of color and an unexpected, delightful flavor with every bite.

Step 6: Bake to golden perfection

Bake your Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons Recipe for 15 to 17 minutes or until the edges are just lightly browned. Keep a close eye toward the end—the goal is golden edges with a moist center. Once baked, allow the macaroons to cool fully on the parchment before gently lifting them off to avoid any breakage.

How to Serve Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons Recipe

Garnishes

While the maraschino cherry tops serve as wonderful garnishes themselves, you can elevate these treats with a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar. Both options add subtle layers of flavor and a touch of elegance that can impress guests or make these feel extra special for a celebration.

Side Dishes

Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons Recipe pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a refreshing twist, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The cool creaminess complements the chewy, sweet macaroons perfectly and turns your snack into a mini dessert feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the box and arrange these macaroons on a decorative platter with fresh berries and mint leaves for festive gatherings. You can also sandwich two macaroons with a dollop of lemon curd or chocolate ganache for a charming twist. These ideas make the Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons Recipe not only delicious but a lovely showstopper on any dessert table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the macaroons fresh and preserves their perfect chewy texture without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze these macaroons by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transferring them to a freezer-safe airtight container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months, making them a convenient make-ahead sweet treat for busy days or unexpected guests.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen macaroons, thaw them at room temperature for about an hour. If you like them warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes, just until they are warmed through but still tender.

FAQs

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened flaked coconut?

Yes, you can substitute unsweetened coconut, but you may want to add a bit of extra sugar to balance the sweetness, since the sweetened coconut adds sugar to the recipe.

What if I don’t have maraschino cherries?

You can use dried cherries or even fresh cherries (just be sure to pit and halve them). Another fun option is to top the macaroons with a small piece of dried apricot or a chocolate chip.

Why do I need to chill the mixture before baking?

Chilling the mixture helps it firm up so that your macaroons hold their shape better during baking, making them easier to scoop and ensuring even baking.

Can I make these macaroons vegan?

This recipe relies on egg whites and condensed milk, which are not vegan. However, you could experiment with aquafaba (chickpea water) for the egg whites and a vegan condensed milk alternative, though results may vary.

How do I know when the macaroons are done?

The macaroons are done when the edges turn a lovely golden brown while the centers remain moist and chewy. Overbaking can make them dry, so watch carefully towards the end of baking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the combination of chewy coconut and bright cherry in this Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons Recipe. It’s a recipe that feels both nostalgic and fresh, easy enough for weeknight baking yet impressive enough for entertaining. I can’t wait for you to try these yourself and share the joy (and cherries) with your loved ones. Happy baking!

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