## Holiday Coconut Macaroons: A Festive Favorite
### Introduction
Sweeten your holiday season with our incredibly delicious Holiday Coconut Macaroons! These delightful treats are a perfect blend of chewy and crispy and are a festive must-have for any holiday gathering. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick prep time, these macaroons are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
### Why Make This Recipe
Coconut macaroons are more than just a festive treat; they’re a holiday tradition and a mouthwatering gift. They are quick and easy to make, requiring no special machinery, and the ingredients are available in most grocery stores all year round.
### How To Make Holiday Coconut Macaroons
Here are the simple steps to make these irresistible Holiday Coconut Macaroons:
#### Ingredients:
2 2/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
2 large egg whites
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: Melted chocolate for drizzling
#### Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture.
4. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the tops are lightly toasted.
6. Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled macaroons and let it set for a lavish finishing touch.
### How To Serve Holiday Coconut Macaroons
These macaroons can be served as a dessert after a holiday meal, or as a sweet snack during a festive gathering. To make them even more special, drizzle some melted dark or milk chocolate over the top of each macaroon.
### How To Store Holiday Coconut Macaroons
Store your macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid storing them in the fridge as it may cause them to become too moist.
### Tips To Make Holiday Coconut Macaroons
To ensure your macaroons are perfect, beat your egg whites until stiff but not dry. If the peaks are sharp, they’ve been beaten too much, and the macaroons may crack. Also, remember to let the macaroons cool completely before drizzling them with chocolate.
### Variations
For a festive twist, add in a 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or cherries to the mix. You can also dip the bottoms of your macaroons in chocolate instead of drizzling it over the top for a different presentation.
### FAQs
**Q: Can I use unsweetened coconut?**
A: Yes, but add 2 tablespoons of sugar to compensate for the sweetness.
**Q: How do I know if the egg whites are beaten enough?**
A: They are ready when you can turn the bowl upside down without them moving.
**Q: Can I freeze the macaroons?**
A: Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before eating or warm them slightly in the oven for a freshly baked taste.