Coconut Macaroons: A Sweet, Chewy Delight

Directions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the macaroons from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
  2. Mix Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed and the coconut is fully coated.
  3. Beat Egg Whites:
    • In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for giving the macaroons their light and airy texture.
  4. Combine Mixtures:
    • Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites, as they help provide the macaroons with their signature lightness.
  5. Form Cookies:
    • Drop the mixture by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart. You can use a spoon or a cookie scoop to shape the macaroons into small mounds.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake the macaroons in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the edges are set.
  7. Cool:
    • Allow the macaroons to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.