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.