Zesty Lemon Coconut Macaroons Recipe: Sweet Tropical Bites

Sweet, golden-brown lemon coconut macaroons dance with zesty brightness and tropical charm.

These delicate treats burst with vibrant citrus notes that complement the rich, toasted coconut perfectly.

Bakers love how this simple coconut macaroons recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort.

Each bite offers a delightful balance of tangy and sweet sensations that melt effortlessly on your tongue.

Crispy edges give way to a soft, chewy center that promises pure indulgence.

Light, refreshing, and impossible to resist, these macaroons make any moment feel special.

Whip up a batch and savor the sunshine in every delectable bite.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 186 kcal

Servings: 21

Ingredients List for Lemon Coconut Macaroons

• Shredded Coconut: Provides the classic chewy texture and tropical flavor, choose fresh and unsweetened for best results.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds richness and helps bind the macaroons together, look for smooth and creamy varieties.

• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Brings bright, zesty citrus notes that cut through sweetness, select firm and vibrant lemons.
• Vanilla Extract: Deepens the overall flavor profile, opt for pure extract over artificial versions.

• Egg Whites, Salt: Creates light and airy texture through whipping, use fresh eggs at room temperature for maximum volume.
• White Chocolate: Provides a luxurious coating and additional sweetness, choose high-quality chocolate for smoother melting.

Tools Used to Bake Lemon Coconut Macaroons

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining coconut and wet ingredients.
• Electric mixer with whisk attachment: Perfect for whipping egg whites to stiff peaks.
• Baking sheet: Needed for baking macaroons evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Helps measure ingredients accurately.
• Grater or zester: Used for creating fresh lemon zest.
• Spatula: Great for gently folding egg whites and scraping bowls.
• Microwave or double boiler: Melts white chocolate smoothly.
• Wire cooling rack (optional): Helpful for cooling macaroons after baking.

Steps for Perfect Lemon Coconut Macaroons

• Sunny Kitchen Prep

Get everything ready in your cheerful kitchen space. Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

• Tropical Coconut Blend

Mix shredded coconut with sweet condensed milk, bright lemon zest, tangy juice, and a splash of vanilla. Let the flavors mingle and get excited about the magic happening.

• Fluffy Cloud Whites

Whip egg whites into magical peaks that look like soft clouds. The mixture should stand up tall and proud when you lift the whisk.

• Gentle Folding Technique

Softly combine the whipped whites with coconut mixture. Move your spatula in gentle circles, keeping all that wonderful airiness intact.

• Coconut Mound Creation

Scoop little mounds of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Each should look like a cute little tropical mountain.

• Golden Transformation

Bake until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown. Your kitchen will smell like a tropical paradise.

• Chocolate Elegance

Dip cooled macaroons into melted white chocolate. Let them rest and set, creating a luxurious finishing touch.

• Zesty Final Flourish

Sprinkle extra lemon zest on top for a bright, citrusy pop of flavor. Store in a sealed container and enjoy your tropical treat.

Add-ins for Coconut Macaroon Variety

• Enhance the lemon flavor by adding an extra teaspoon of lemon zest for a more vibrant citrus punch.
• Experiment with dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate for a different flavor profile and elegant twist.
• Keep macaroons fresh by storing them in a single layer between parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Gently press the macaroons with a fork before baking to create a more rustic, textured appearance and crispy edges.
• Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions, making this recipe accessible to more people.

Serving Suggestions for Coconut Macaroons

• Citrus Brunch Companion: Pair these zesty macaroons with a light morning cappuccino or freshly squeezed orange juice for a delightful breakfast treat.
• Sweet Tea Party Delight: Serve these elegant cookies on a charming platter during afternoon tea, complementing delicate china and creating a sophisticated dessert experience.
• Tropical Dessert Finale: Present these macaroons as a refreshing end to a summer dinner, garnishing the plate with a small mint leaf or edible flower for an extra touch of elegance.
• Gifting Gourmet Option: Package these macaroons in a clear cellophane bag tied with a pastel ribbon, making them a perfect homemade gift for friends or special occasions.

Storing Macaroons to Keep Them Moist

• Macaroon Magic Storage: Keep your delightful lemon coconut treats in a sealed container at room temperature for optimal freshness, lasting up to 5 days.
• Chilled Comfort Zone: Refrigerate macaroons in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to maintain their delicate texture and prevent sticking.
• Freezer-Friendly Approach: Wrap individual macaroons in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. These tasty treats can be frozen for up to 3 months, perfect for future sweet cravings.
• Smart Serving Strategy: Let frozen macaroons thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying, ensuring they return to their original soft and chewy perfection.

Tropical Lemon Coconut Macaroons

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4.7 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 21 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Delightful lemon coconut macaroons blend zesty citrus with sweet coconut in a perfect tropical treat. Crisp edges and tender centers make these cookies irresistible for those who crave a refreshing dessert experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 14 oz (396 g) sweetened shredded coconut
• 14 oz (396 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 egg whites (room temperature)
• 2.5 tbsps (37.5 mL) lemon zest
• 3 tbsps (45 mL) fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp (2.5 mL) vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp (1.25 mL) salt
• 6 oz (170 g) melting white chocolate

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating an ideal baking environment for delicate coconut treats.
2. Mixture Creation: Combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl, blending ingredients until thoroughly integrated.
3. Egg White Transformation: Whip egg whites with a pinch of salt using a mixer until forming stiff, glossy peaks that will provide light, airy texture to the macaroons.
4. Incorporation: Gently fold whipped egg whites into the coconut mixture, maintaining the delicate volume and ensuring a smooth, consistent blend.
5. Shaping and Baking: Carefully drop rounded mounds of the coconut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges turn golden brown, signaling perfect caramelization.
6. Cooling and Chocolate Coating: Allow macaroons to cool completely on the baking sheet. Melt white chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, then dip each macaroon’s base into the warm chocolate.
7. Finishing Touches: Place chocolate-dipped macaroons on parchment paper. Drizzle remaining white chocolate over the tops and sprinkle additional lemon zest for a vibrant, elegant presentation.
8. Storage: Once chocolate has set, transfer macaroons to an airtight container, preserving their delicate texture and flavor at room temperature.

Notes

• Whip Egg Whites Precisely: Ensure absolutely no yolk contamination when separating eggs, as fat prevents whites from reaching maximum volume and glossiness.
• Fold Gently: Use a slow, circular motion when incorporating egg whites to maintain their delicate air bubbles, preventing deflation and preserving the light, airy texture.
• Check Browning Carefully: Watch macaroons closely during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to avoid burning, as ovens vary in temperature and intensity.
• Store Strategically: Keep macaroons in a cool, dry place with parchment between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their crisp exterior and soft interior.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 21
• Calories: 186
• Sugar: 16 g
• Sodium: 54 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg