Dairy-free Macaroons

Dairy-Free Coconut Macaroon Cookies

Written by

Ashley Adams

Updated 06/19/19

The Spruce / Claire Cohen

• Total: 20 mins
• Prep: 5 mins
• Cook: 15 mins
• Yield: 3 dozen cookies (serves 18)

Nutritional Guidelines (per serving)
151	Calories
7g	Fat
20g	Carbs
2g	Protein

See Full Nutritional Guidelines

(Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.)

Macaroons originated in Italy between the 1500s and 1700s. They have become popular around the world as cultures have adapted the original recipe. This dairy-free recipe is closer to the traditional coconut macaroons and may be new to many bakers' dessert repertoire. This simple recipe for dairy-free macaroons are coconut-based, although some macaroons use ground almonds instead. They are elegant and fun treats for cocktail hour or as a post-dinner sweet. They take less than 20 minutes to prepare and bake, from start to finish. Feel free to substitute the vanilla or almond extract with other flavorings of your choice; orange and lemon extracts yield good results, and during the holidays, peppermint macaroons are a festive idea for any family or company celebration.

Storing Macaroons

Dairy-free coconut macaroons will keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. But refrigerating them after they have been properly cooked for up to 24 hours will help the flavors meld and make them more firm for ease of serving. Be sure to let the macaroons cool before storing them. Metal containers will keep these macaroons crisper than plastic containers. If storing a large batch, layer macaroons between parchment paper.

Freezing and Refrigerating Macaroons

Pack the coconut macaroon dough very tightly to ensure a more tender cookie. The dough can be refrigerated for up to a week and frozen for up to six weeks in an air-tight plastic container or freezer bag. Thaw in the container for 15 minutes at room temperature. Pack dough in containers, or shape slice-and-bake dough into logs and wrap. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Ingredients

• 5 cups coconut (finely-shredded, unsweetened)
• 1 1/2 cup sugar (granulated)
• Pinch of salt
• 4 large egg whites (lightly beaten)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (or almond extract)

Steps to Make It

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.
   
2. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the coconut, sugar and salt. Add the egg whites and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
   
3. Using your hands, form the mixture into small 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoon mounds, transferring each to the prepared baking sheets as you work.
   
4. Bake until just the peaks of the cookies are light golden brown, about 12 to 15 minutes, turning the pan halfway through to ensure even baking. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire cooling rack. Serve at room temperature.