Caramel Coconut Macaroon Thumbprints Recipe
Introduction
Caramel Coconut Macaroon Thumbprints are a delightful treat combining the chewy texture of coconut macaroons with a sweet, gooey caramel center. These bite-sized cookies offer the perfect balance of flavors and are ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 3 egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, egg whites, and sugar until the mixture is well blended and sticky.
- Step 3: Using a tablespoon, scoop the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape each into a small mound.
- Step 4: Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently create a small indentation in the center of each macaroon.
- Step 5: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and immediately fill each indentation with about a teaspoon of caramel sauce.
- Step 7: Allow the macaroons to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, toast the shredded coconut lightly before mixing it in.
- Try using homemade caramel or dulce de leche for a richer filling.
- You can add a pinch of sea salt on top of the caramel for a delicious salty-sweet contrast.
- To make them gluten-free, ensure the coconut and caramel you use are certified gluten-free.
Storage
Store the macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to one week. Before serving, allow refrigerated macaroons to come to room temperature for the best texture. Avoid freezing as the caramel may become too hard or grainy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened or unsweetened coconut?
Either can work, but sweetened coconut will make the macaroons sweeter, so you might reduce the sugar slightly if desired.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the macaroons and store them separately from the caramel. Add the caramel just before serving to maintain its soft texture.
PrintCaramel Coconut Macaroon Thumbprints Recipe
Delightfully chewy and sweet, Caramel Coconut Macaroon Thumbprints are a perfect treat combining the tropical flavor of coconut with the rich sweetness of caramel. These bite-sized cookies feature a crisp outer shell and a soft, moist center filled with luscious caramel, making them an irresistible dessert for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 18–20 macaroons 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Macaroon Base
- 3 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 3 large egg whites
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Caramel Filling
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Macaroon Batter: In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, egg whites, and granulated sugar. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and the mixture is sticky.
- Shape the Macaroons: Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop dollops of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, create an indentation in the center of each macaroon to form a thumbprint.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain slightly soft.
- Fill with Caramel: Remove the macaroons from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, spoon or pipe caramel sauce into the indentations of each macaroon while still warm to allow slight melting and better adhesion.
- Cool Completely: Transfer the caramel-filled macaroons onto a wire rack and let them cool completely to room temperature before serving to allow the caramel to set.
Notes
- Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- You can use homemade caramel sauce or a good-quality store-bought version for convenience.
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel before it sets.
- Store the macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend freshness.
Keywords: coconut macaroons, thumbprint cookies, caramel macaroons, easy coconut cookies, homemade caramel thumbprints
