German Style Coconut Macaroons

Name: German Style Coconut Macaroons
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 3 large egg whites (at room temperature); 200 g unsweetened shredded coconut; 150 g granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt

35 min 24 cookies Easy

All Recipes

These delightful German-style coconut macaroons are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, a perfect treat for coconut lovers.

Prep

15 min

Cook

20 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Coconut macaroons are a beloved treat, especially popular during festive seasons in Germany. Their crisp exterior and chewy centre make them an irresistible delight. German-style macaroons are slightly different as they often incorporate more coconut and are less sweet compared to their American counterparts, focusing on the rich, natural flavour of the coconut. This version of coconut macaroons highlights the traditional German approach, which uses simple ingredients to create a treat that is both elegant and satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and fun to make.

Instructions

Prepare the oven and baking sheet

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Pro tip: Using parchment paper helps prevent the macaroons from sticking.

Whisk the egg whites

In a large bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form soft peaks.

Pro tip: Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for better volume.

Combine ingredients

Gently fold in the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt into the egg whites. Then, fold in the shredded coconut until fully combined.

Pro tip: Be gentle to maintain the volume of the egg whites.

Shape the macaroons

Using a tablespoon, scoop small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 cm (1 inch) apart.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Pro tip: Check the macaroons at 15 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Cool

Remove from the oven and let the macaroons cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro tip: Cooling on the rack helps retain their crispy texture.

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Tips & Tricks

Use unsweetened shredded coconut for a less sweet, more authentic taste.
Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whisking.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes macaroons German style?

German-style macaroons typically use more coconut and are less sweet, focusing on the natural flavour of the coconut.

Can I use sweetened coconut?

It is recommended to use unsweetened coconut to achieve the traditional German taste, but sweetened can be used for a sweeter version.

How long do these macaroons last?

Stored in an airtight container, they last up to a week at room temperature and freeze well for up to three months.

Can I add chocolate to these macaroons?

Yes, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled macaroons or dip the bottoms in chocolate for a delicious variation.

Are these macaroons gluten-free?

Yes, these coconut macaroons are naturally gluten-free as they do not contain any flour.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these German-style coconut macaroons with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of dark chocolate. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you wish to make them ahead, they freeze well for up to three months.