Coconut Lime Macaroons: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Cookie

Transport yourself to a beachy paradise with these irresistible Coconut Lime Macaroons. This vibrant twist on traditional macaroons combines the tropical sweetness of coconut with bright, citrusy lime zest, creating a perfectly balanced treat that’s both chewy and crisp. Originally inspired by traditional French macarons, these coconut-based cookies are significantly easier to make while still maintaining an elegant and sophisticated flavor profile.

Ingredients

  • 5⅓ cups sweetened shredded coconut (14 ounces)
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk (8 ounces)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher or fine sea salt
  • 2 large egg whites
  • Zest of 2 limes

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare
  • Heat your oven to 325°F (165°C)
  • Line 2-3 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats
  1. Mix Base Ingredients
  • In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt
  • Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated
  1. Prepare Egg Whites
  • In a separate clean bowl, whisk egg whites using an electric mixer on high speed
  • Continue whisking until stiff peaks form (approximately 3-4 minutes)
  • Test by lifting the beater – peaks should stand straight up
  1. Combine Mixtures
  • Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture
  • Add lime zest
  • Use a folding technique to maintain the air in the egg whites
  1. Shape and Bake
  • Drop rounded tablespoons of mixture onto prepared baking sheets
  • Leave 2 inches (5cm) between each macaroon
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, rotating pans halfway through
  • Cookies should be golden brown when done
  1. Cool and Serve
  • Let macaroons cool on baking sheets for 10-15 minutes
  • Transfer to wire rack to cool completely

Nutritional Information

Per macaroon (based on 24 cookies):

  • Calories: 125
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 3mg
  • Sodium: 65mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Protein: 1g

Time Requirements:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 macaroons

Pro Tips and Tricks

  1. Room Temperature Ingredients
  • Use room temperature egg whites for maximum volume
  • Let coconut come to room temperature if stored in refrigerator
  1. Perfect Peaks
  • Use a clean, dry bowl for whipping egg whites
  • Avoid any yolk contamination for best results
  • Stop whipping as soon as stiff peaks form to prevent overbeating
  1. Proper Folding Technique
  • Use a wide rubber spatula
  • Fold gently to maintain air in egg whites
  • Stop folding as soon as ingredients are incorporated
  1. Consistent Sizing
  • Use a cookie scoop for uniform macaroons
  • Maintain consistent size for even baking

Variations and Substitutions

  1. Citrus Variations
  • Replace lime zest with lemon or orange zest
  • Use a combination of citrus zests
  • Add 1 tablespoon citrus juice for stronger flavor
  1. Chocolate Options
  • Dip bottoms in melted dark chocolate
  • Drizzle with white chocolate
  • Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to mixture
  1. Dietary Modifications
  • Use unsweetened coconut and adjust sweetened condensed milk
  • Try coconut condensed milk for dairy-free version
  • Use sugar-free condensed milk for lower sugar option

Common FAQs

Q: Can I make these macaroons ahead of time?
A: Yes, they can be made up to 5 days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q: Why did my macaroons spread too much?
A: This usually happens if the egg whites weren’t whipped to stiff peaks or were overmixed when folding.

Q: Can I freeze these macaroons?
A: Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months when stored in an airtight container.

Q: Why are my macaroons too dry?
A: They might have been overbaked. Watch carefully and remove from oven when just golden brown.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  1. Room Temperature Storage
  • Store in airtight container
  • Keeps fresh for up to 1 week
  • Place wax paper between layers
  1. Freezer Storage
  • Freeze in airtight container
  • Store up to 3 months
  • Thaw at room temperature for 2 hours
  1. Make-Ahead Options
  • Prepare dough up to 24 hours ahead
  • Store covered in refrigerator
  • Bring to room temperature before baking
  1. Shipping and Gifting
  • Pack in sturdy container with padding
  • Ship with expedited shipping
  • Include storage instructions for recipient