Deliciously Chewy Coconut Macaroons with Creamy Centers
Indulge in these irresistibly rich and chewy coconut macaroons that are perfectly crunchy on the outside and decadent on the inside. This delightful twist on the classic macaroon features the creamy richness of cream cheese and a hint of orange juice and almond extract, elevating the flavor profile to new heights. The generous flakes of sweetened coconut make these cookies a true celebration of taste and texture. The addition of maraschino cherry halves creates a beautiful and festive touch, making them perfect for any occasion. Try these macaroons, and watch them disappear within minutes—everyone will be begging for more!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1/3 cup (softened, preferably unsalted)
cream cheese
3 ounces (softened)
sugar
3/4 cup (granulated)
egg yolk
1 (separated from the white)
orange juice
2 teaspoons (freshly squeezed)
almond extract
1 teaspoon (pure or imitation)
flour
1 1/4 cups (all-purpose)
baking powder
2 teaspoons
salt
1/4 teaspoon
sweetened flaked coconut
4 cups (divided)
maraschino cherries
as desired (halved, optional for topping)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2
Add the egg yolk, orange juice, and almond extract to the creamed mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
3
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending well after each addition until a smooth dough forms.
5
Fold in 3 cups of the sweetened coconut until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until it is firm enough to handle.
7
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
8
Once chilled, shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the remaining 1 cup of sweetened coconut, pressing lightly to adhere the coconut to the surface.
9
Place the coated cookie balls onto an ungreased baking sheet, spaced apart to allow for spreading.
10
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden brown. (Note that some may need the full 15 minutes for optimal firmness.)
11
After baking, allow the cookies to rest on the cookie sheet for 1 minute before transferring them gently to wire racks to cool completely.
12
If desired, press a half of a maraschino cherry gently into the center of each cookie before baking for an added decorative touch.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these coconut macaroons unique?
These macaroons feature a creamy center thanks to the addition of cream cheese and a hint of orange juice for a unique flavor profile.
How much butter is needed for this recipe?
You will need 1/3 cup of softened butter, preferably unsalted.
What type of cream cheese should I use?
Use 3 ounces of softened cream cheese to ensure it blends smoothly with the butter and sugar.
How much sugar is required?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of granulated sugar.
Do I use the whole egg?
No, this recipe specifically requires 1 egg yolk separated from the white.
Is the orange juice freshly squeezed?
Yes, the recipe recommends using 2 teaspoons of freshly squeezed orange juice.
What kind of almond extract should I use?
You can use 1 teaspoon of either pure or imitation almond extract.
What type of flour is best for these macaroons?
The recipe uses 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour.
Does this recipe include a leavening agent?
Yes, it includes 2 teaspoons of baking powder to help with the texture.
How much salt should I add?
Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the dry ingredient mixture.
What kind of coconut is used?
The recipe calls for 4 cups of sweetened flaked coconut, divided between the dough and the coating.
Are the maraschino cherries mandatory?
No, the maraschino cherries are optional and used as a decorative topping.
How should I prepare the cherries?
If using them, halve the cherries and press them gently into the center of each cookie before baking.
How do I mix the wet ingredients?
Cream the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar together until light and fluffy before adding the egg yolk and liquids.
Should I mix the dry ingredients separately?
Yes, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate small bowl before adding them to the wet mixture.
How do I combine the coconut into the dough?
Fold 3 cups of the sweetened coconut into the dough until it is evenly distributed.
How long does the dough need to chill?
Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour until it is firm enough to handle.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
What size should I make the cookie balls?
Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls.
How do I apply the coconut coating?
Roll each dough ball in the remaining 1 cup of coconut, pressing lightly so it adheres to the surface.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
No, place the coated cookie balls onto an ungreased baking sheet.
How long do the macaroons bake?
Bake them for 12 to 15 minutes.
How do I know when the macaroons are finished baking?
They are done when the tops are lightly golden brown.
What if the cookies seem too soft after 12 minutes?
Some cookies may require the full 15 minutes of baking time to reach optimal firmness.
How long should the cookies rest on the pan?
Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 1 minute after taking them out of the oven.
How should I cool the macaroons?
Transfer them gently from the baking sheet to wire racks to cool completely.
What is the texture of these cookies?
They are crunchy on the outside and rich, chewy, and decadent on the inside.
Can I serve these for holidays?
Yes, the festive touch of the coconut and optional cherry makes them perfect for holiday occasions.
Why is chilling the dough important?
Chilling makes the dough easier to shape into balls and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients total, including the optional maraschino cherries.