Caramel 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
Scale
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
