What makes a perfect sweet indulgence after dinner? These chewy coconut macaroons topped with fresh cherry are a quick and easy homemade treat that combines the richness of coconut with the sweetness of cherry, perfect for a weeknight dessert, try making them soon and save this idea

cherry topped coconut macaroons on a plate

Introduction

Imagine a delicate balance of flavors and textures in one delightful treat: the cherry topped coconut macaroon. This sweet indulgence is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant cherry topping, but it’s also incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor. Using everyday ingredients, you can create these impressive coconut macaroons that are perfect for any occasion, from a simple dessert to a gift for friends and family. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker to achieve these chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside macaroons, topped with the sweetness of cherries.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of coconut, cherry, and a hint of sweetness creates a flavor profile that’s both unique and appealing. Plus, the ingredients are easily found in most grocery stores.
• Ease of preparation: The steps to make these macaroons are straightforward and simple, requiring minimal cooking skills and no special equipment beyond a baking sheet and an oven.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite their elegant appearance, especially when topped with a cherry, these macaroons require surprisingly little effort, making them perfect for last-minute desserts or gifts.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for these cherry topped coconut macaroons include shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and cherries. The key to a good macaroon is in the quality of the coconut and the balance of sweetness. You can use fresh or dried cherries, depending on what’s available. For a practical substitution, if you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, you can make a similar substitute by mixing powdered milk with sugar and a bit of water, though the result might slightly vary in texture and taste.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the macaroons from sticking. In a large bowl, whisk together the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Step 2: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form the coconut mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place these balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each macaroon to allow for even baking.
3. Step 3: Bake the macaroons for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Step 4: Once the macaroons are cool, you can top each one with a cherry. If using fresh cherries, you might want to drizzle with a bit of chocolate to secure the cherry and add an extra layer of flavor. If using dried cherries, you can simply place one on top of each macaroon.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overmix the coconut mixture, as this can lead to dense macaroons. Stop mixing once all the ingredients are just combined.
• Avoid overbaking, as this can make the macaroons dry. They should be lightly golden and still slightly soft to the touch when removed from the oven.
• Consider using different types of cherries or even other fruits like cranberries for a variation in flavor and color.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the coconut macaroons is 325°F (165°C), and they should be baked for 18-20 minutes. It’s crucial to keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as the baking time can vary depending on the size of the macaroons and your oven’s performance. They are done when lightly golden brown on top and firm to the touch but still slightly soft.

Crunch Factor

The outside of the macaroon should be crispy, while the inside remains chewy. This texture contrast is part of their appeal. To achieve this, ensure you don’t overbake them, and consider chilling the formed macaroons in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking to help them retain their shape and bake up with a nicer texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make the macaroons more uniform and easier to bake, use a cookie scoop to portion out the coconut mixture.
• Dip the tops of the cooled macaroons in melted chocolate for an extra layer of flavor and a more polished look.
• For a shortcut, you can also use coconut flakes that are already sweetened, adjusting the amount of sweetened condensed milk accordingly to avoid overly sweet macaroons.

Storage Tips

• Store the macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If topped with fresh cherries, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator to keep the cherries fresh.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the baked macaroons without the cherry topping. They can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed at room temperature when needed.
• When storing, place the macaroons in a single layer in the container to prevent them from sticking together.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These cherry topped coconut macaroons make wonderful gifts, especially when packaged nicely. Consider placing them in decorative jars, wrapping them individually in colorful paper or cellophane bags, and tying with a ribbon. For a more rustic look, a wooden box or a basket lined with parchment paper and filled with the macaroons can be very appealing. Don’t forget to include a personalized note or card to make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of salt, cinnamon, or nutmeg to the coconut mixture for a unique twist.
• Creative toppings: Beyond cherries, consider using other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: For a gluten-free version, ensure the sweetened condensed milk and any chocolate used are gluten-free. You can also experiment with different types of milk for a non-dairy version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your macaroons turn out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the coconut mixture. If they’re too dry, they might have been overbaked.
• Ingredient replacements: Always consider the flavor and texture you’re trying to achieve when substituting ingredients. For example, using unsweetened coconut flakes will result in a less sweet macaroon.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the macaroons during baking. They should be lightly golden and still slightly soft to the touch when done. If they’re overcooked, they’ll be dry and possibly too brown.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the macaroons without the cherry topping for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when needed.
• Is it gluten-free? The basic recipe is gluten-free, but ensure that any additional ingredients like sweetened condensed milk or chocolate are also gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe if you need more macaroons. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if the macaroons are larger or if you’re baking more at once.

Conclusion

Making cherry topped coconut macaroons is a fun and rewarding baking project that yields delicious results with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy yourself or a thoughtful gift for someone else, these macaroons are sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special. With their combination of chewy coconut, sweet cherries, and potential for creative variations, these macaroons are a treat you’ll want to make again and again.