Cocoa Cherry Macaroons (Print Version)

Sweet coconut treats with chocolate chips and candied cherries, simple to make and irresistibly delicious.

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 6 cups sweetened flaked coconut
02 - 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
03 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Mix-ins

04 - 1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
05 - ½ cup candied dried cherries, diced

→ Optional

06 - High-quality dipping chocolate for coating

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the flaked coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
03 - Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and diced dried cherries, ensuring even distribution throughout the coconut mixture.
04 - Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2.5 cm (1 inch) between each macaroon.
05 - Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges begin to turn golden brown while the centers remain soft.
06 - Allow macaroons to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
07 - If desired, melt the dipping chocolate according to package instructions and dip the bottoms of the cooled macaroons. Place on parchment paper until chocolate sets.

# Notes:

01 - Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
02 - These macaroons freeze well for up to 3 months when properly stored.