Italian macaroons

Italian macaroons are delightful cookies featuring a crisp exterior and a chewy interior, made with egg whites, sugar, and coconut. This simple recipe incorporates a hint of vanilla, making them easy to prepare for bakers of all skill levels.

17 Jan 2026
Cook time 12 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

2 egg whites
1/3 cup sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup dried coconut meat
1 cup coconut meat

Italian macaroons are a delightful treat that are slightly crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside. These coconut-filled cookies are straightforward to make and offer a lovely hint of vanilla. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this simple recipe will guide you through creating these delicious Italian macaroons.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Egg Whites:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites until they become frothy.

3. Add Sugar:
Gradually add the sugar to the egg whites while continuing to whisk. Whisk until the mixture becomes glossy and forms soft peaks.

4. Incorporate Vanilla:
Add the vanilla extract to the egg white mixture and whisk until combined.

5. Mix in Coconut:
Gently fold in both the dried coconut meat and the fresh coconut meat, ensuring everything is well combined without deflating the mixture.

6. Shape the Macaroons:
Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading.

7. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroons are lightly golden on the edges and firm to the touch.

8. Cool Down:
Remove the macaroons from the oven and let them cool completely on a cooling rack.

9. Serve:
Once cooled, the macaroons are ready to be enjoyed. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

By following this simple recipe and these helpful tips, you can bake perfect Italian macaroons that are sure to impress friends and family. With their irresistible texture and flavor, these macaroons make a wonderful dessert or an elegant addition to any tea or coffee break.

Italian macaroons FAQ:

What is the baking time for Italian macaroons?

Bake the Italian macaroons in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the edges and firm to the touch.

How do I know when the macaroons are done?

The macaroons are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and feel firm to the touch. They should also have a slight crispness on the outside.

Can I store Italian macaroons, and if so, how?

Yes, you can store Italian macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. They should stay good for about a week.

What can I substitute for coconut meat?

If you need a substitute for the fresh coconut meat, you can use more dried coconut or finely shredded coconut. Just keep in mind that the texture will differ slightly.

What size baking sheet should I use for this recipe?

A standard half-sheet baking pan (approximately 18x13 inches) works well for this recipe. Make sure to line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the macaroons.

Tips:

- Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping; this helps them achieve maximum volume.

- For a smoother texture, you can pulse the dried coconut meat in a food processor before adding it to the mix.

- Consider using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the macaroons from sticking to the baking sheet.

- Dip the bottoms of the cooled macaroons in melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.

- Keep an eye on the macaroons while they bake to prevent over-browning; they should be just slightly golden.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 380kcal
Protein 4.19g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 33g
Fat 24g

Italian macaroons