What makes the perfect coffee break treat? For me, it’s these easy homemade coffee macaroons made with sweet coconut and a shot of espresso. Perfect for a quick weeknight pick-me-up, try making a batch using simple ingredients like shredded coconut and coffee. Save this idea for your next baking session and indulge in the flavors of your favorite coffee shop at home. Try it soon

coffee macaroons stacked on top of each other in front of a plate full of macaroons

Introduction

Imagine a delicate balance of flavors and textures, all combined in a single, delightful treat. Coffee macaroons are the perfect blend of rich, velvety coffee and sweet, chewy coconut, all wrapped up in a crunchy, golden package. The best part? These delicious morsels are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado, a coconut lover, or just a fan of all things sweet, these coffee macaroons are sure to become a new favorite. With their impressive presentation and effortless preparation, they’re perfect for serving at parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying as a sweet treat any time of the day.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of coffee, coconut, and sweetened condensed milk creates a beautifully balanced flavor profile that’s both rich and refreshing. Plus, all of the ingredients are easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
• Ease of preparation: These macaroons require no baking and can be prepared in just a few simple steps. The dough comes together quickly, and the macaroons can be formed and chilled in no time.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite their ease of preparation, these coffee macaroons are sure to impress. They’re perfect for serving at parties or gift-giving, and their beautiful presentation makes them a great choice for special occasions.

Key Ingredients

The key ingredients in these coffee macaroons are sweetened condensed milk, unsweetened shredded coconut, instant coffee powder, and vanilla extract. The sweetened condensed milk provides a rich, creamy flavor and helps to bind the ingredients together. The unsweetened shredded coconut adds a nice texture and flavor contrast, while the instant coffee powder gives the macaroons their distinctive coffee flavor. The vanilla extract adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the flavor profile. You can also use freshly brewed coffee instead of instant coffee powder for a more intense flavor. Additionally, you can substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a mixture of powdered sugar and heavy cream for a lighter flavor.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing the ingredients. Open the can of sweetened condensed milk and scoop it into a large mixing bowl. Add the unsweetened shredded coconut, instant coffee powder, and vanilla extract to the bowl.
2. Step 2: Mix the ingredients together until they form a smooth, cohesive dough. You can use a spoon or a stand mixer to mix the ingredients, depending on your preference.
3. Step 3: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Step 4: Once the dough is chilled, use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to set.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh coconut and real vanilla extract, to get the best flavor out of your macaroons.
• If you find that your dough is too sticky, you can add a little more coconut to balance it out. If it’s too dry, you can add a little more sweetened condensed milk.
• Experiment with different flavor combinations, such as adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough, to create unique and delicious variations.

Heat Control

Since these macaroons are no-bake, you don’t have to worry about heat control. However, if you choose to toast the coconut for added flavor and texture, make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Simply spread the coconut flakes on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these coffee macaroons comes from the toasted coconut flakes. If you prefer a chewier texture, you can skip the toasting step and use untoasted coconut flakes instead. Alternatively, you can add some chopped nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to the dough for added crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough and create uniform balls. This will help the macaroons to bake evenly and ensure that they all have the same texture and flavor.
• Experiment with different types of coffee, such as espresso or cold brew, to create unique and intense flavor profiles.
• Consider adding a pinch of salt to the dough to balance out the sweetness and enhance the flavor of the coffee.

Storage Tips

• Store the macaroons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze the macaroons for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.
• Keep the macaroons away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as this can cause them to become sticky or develop off-flavors.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These coffee macaroons are perfect for gift-giving, and can be packaged in a variety of creative ways. Consider placing them in a decorative tin or jar, or wrapping them individually in cellophane bags and tying with a ribbon. You can also include a packet of coffee or a bag of gourmet coffee beans to complement the flavor of the macaroons.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and spicy flavor.
• Use different types of coffee, such as espresso or cold brew, to create unique and intense flavor profiles.
• Experiment with different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, to create a dairy-free version of the macaroons.

Troubleshooting

• If your dough is too sticky, try adding a little more coconut to balance it out. If it’s too dry, try adding a little more sweetened condensed milk.
• If your macaroons are too crunchy, try baking them for a shorter amount of time. If they’re too chewy, try baking them for a longer amount of time.
• If you notice that your macaroons are developing off-flavors or becoming sticky, try storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the macaroons for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, these macaroons are gluten-free, making them a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch of macaroons. Just be sure to adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these coffee macaroons are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich, velvety coffee flavor and sweet, chewy texture, they’re sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado, a coconut lover, or just a fan of all things sweet, these macaroons are a must-try. So go ahead, get creative, and experiment with different flavor combinations and ingredients to make these macaroons your own. Happy baking!