Welcome to the world of ridiculously easy and incredibly delicious baking! If you’re a fan of recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort, you’re in for a treat. These 2-Ingredient Coconut Macaroons are so straightforward, it feels like magic. In just a few minutes, with only two common ingredients, you’ll create chewy, sweet, and perfectly golden coconut macaroons that will astound your taste buds and impress everyone around you.
Whether you need a last-minute dessert for a potluck, a quick pick-me-up for an afternoon craving, or a delightful addition to your holiday cookie platter, these macaroons are your new secret weapon. They demand less than 10 minutes of active preparation and baking time, meaning you can have a fresh batch ready before your oven even fully preheats!
Effortless Indulgence: The Ultimate 2-Ingredient Coconut Macaroon Recipe
We all cherish those recipes that fit seamlessly into a busy schedule, requiring minimal ingredients and delivering exceptional taste. This coconut macaroon recipe epitomizes that ideal. From mixing to mouth, these delightful cookies can be prepared and enjoyed in less than 10 minutes. This means more time for you to relax, entertain, or simply savor the moment, without being tethered to the kitchen. Plus, with only two main ingredients, the cleanup is just as effortless!
Watch our quick video tutorial on how to make these incredible 2-Ingredient Coconut Macaroons!
Discover just how simple it is to whip up a batch of these seriously yummy macaroons. It’s truly amazing!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Simple Macaroon Recipe
Beyond their incredible ease, these 2-ingredient coconut macaroons offer a multitude of reasons to become your new favorite go-to dessert:
- Unbelievably Quick: From start to finish, you’re looking at under 10 minutes. Perfect for unexpected guests or sudden sweet cravings.
- Minimal Ingredients: Seriously, just two! This makes them budget-friendly and easy to make without a trip to the grocery store.
- No Special Skills Required: If you can stir and scoop, you can make these macaroons. It’s an ideal recipe for beginner bakers or baking with kids.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet coconut and rich condensed milk creates a nostalgic, comforting taste that almost everyone loves.
- Versatile: Delicious on their own, but also a fantastic base for customization with chocolate drizzles, extracts, or nuts.
- Easy Cleanup: Fewer ingredients mean fewer dishes. Spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying!
The Simple Magic: Just Two Ingredients!
The secret to these delightful treats lies in the perfect pairing of two kitchen staples. Understanding a little about each ingredient can help you achieve the best results.
Essential Ingredients:
- Coconut Flakes: For the best texture and flavor, we recommend using sweetened shredded coconut flakes. The sweetness complements the condensed milk, and the shredded texture creates that classic chewy macaroon feel. While unsweetened coconut can be used, you might find the macaroons less sweet and a bit drier, potentially requiring a slight adjustment to the condensed milk quantity to maintain binding.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This magical ingredient is the binder and primary sweetener for our macaroons. It provides the sticky consistency that holds the coconut together and caramelizes beautifully under the broiler, giving the macaroons their signature golden crust and soft, chewy interior. Do not substitute with evaporated milk, as it lacks the sugar and thickness required for this recipe. You’ll want a standard 14-ounce can of high-quality sweetened condensed milk.
Essential Tools for Macaroon Perfection
While the recipe itself is simple, having the right tools on hand can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable. You likely have most of these in your kitchen already!
- Baking Sheet with Sides: A sturdy baking sheet is a must. We highly recommend one with raised sides to prevent any adventurous cookies from rolling off and ending up in the depths of your oven – a mishap some of us have learned from experience! Lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat will ensure your macaroons don’t stick and make cleanup a breeze.
- Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for easily combining your two ingredients. We’re particularly fond of glass batter bowls with a handle, as they offer stability on the counter and make mixing less messy.
- Ice Cream Scoop: For perfectly uniform macaroons, an ice cream scoop (about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons in size) is invaluable. It ensures each cookie is the same size, promoting even baking and a beautiful presentation.
- Heat-Resistant Potholders: Safety first! Always use reliable, heat-resistant potholders when handling hot baking sheets. We’ve switched to silicone ones after a past scare, and they provide excellent protection.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: For absolutely no-stick results and easy cleanup, line your baking sheet. This also helps in achieving that perfect golden bottom without burning.
How to Make 2-Ingredient Coconut Macaroons (Step-by-Step Guide)
Let’s get baking! The process is incredibly straightforward, promising delicious results every time.
2-Ingredient Coconut Macaroon Cookies Recipe
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5 minutes
1 minute
6 minutes
24
162 kcal
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 14 Ounce Coconut Flakes (sweetened, shredded)
- 14 Ounce Sweetened Condensed Milk (one standard can)
Instructions
- Preheat Broiler: Turn on your oven’s broiler. Position your oven rack in the middle or slightly higher to ensure even browning without burning.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the coconut flakes and the sweetened condensed milk. Use a sturdy spatula or your hands to ensure every flake of coconut is coated with the milk.
- Check Consistency: The mixture should be sticky enough to hold its shape but not overly liquidy. If it seems too wet, add a tablespoon or two more coconut flakes. If too dry, a tiny bit more condensed milk (start with ½ teaspoon) might be needed, but be cautious not to make it too loose, which can cause spreading.
- Shape Macaroons: Using an ice cream scoop, roll the mixture into uniform ball shapes (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Leave a little space between each macaroon.
- Broil to Golden Perfection: Carefully place the baking sheet in the oven under the broiler. This step requires constant vigilance! Broilers vary, and macaroons can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds. Stay by the oven and watch them continuously.
- Remove and Cool: It only takes 1 to 3 minutes for the tops of these macaroons to brown and be done. Once they reach your desired golden hue, remove them from the oven immediately. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will firm up as they cool.
Kitchen Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Cookie Sheets
- Ice Cream Scoop
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 108
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Tips for Flawless Coconut Macaroons Every Time
While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few pointers can elevate your macaroons from great to absolutely perfect:
- Consistency is Key: When mixing, ensure the coconut is fully coated but not swimming in condensed milk. The mixture should be sticky enough to form a ball that holds its shape, but not so wet that it feels like batter. If it’s too wet, they’ll spread. Too dry, they won’t bind.
- Watch the Broiler Like a Hawk: This cannot be stressed enough! Broilers are powerful, and ovens vary. Keep your eyes on the macaroons constantly. They can brown in as little as 30 seconds to a minute. Rotate the tray if needed for even browning.
- Even Sizing: Using an ice cream scoop ensures all your macaroons are roughly the same size, which helps them bake evenly and prevents some from burning while others are still pale.
- Cooling Process: Allow the macaroons to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them. They will be soft right out of the oven but will firm up as they cool, making them easier to handle.
- Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Don’t skip lining your baking sheet. It makes removing the macaroons effortless and prevents any sticky situations.
Delicious Variations & Customizations
These 2-ingredient macaroons are fantastic as is, but they also serve as a wonderful canvas for creative additions. Here are some ideas to make them uniquely yours:
- Chocolate Drizzle or Dip: For a decadent touch, melt some good quality chocolate (dark, milk, or white) and drizzle it over the cooled macaroons. You can also dip the bottoms of the macaroons in melted chocolate and let it set on parchment paper.
- Extracts for Flavor Boost: A teaspoon of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a touch of rum extract can add another layer of flavor to your macaroons. Mix it in with the condensed milk.
- Citrus Zest: Grate in the zest of a lemon, lime, or orange for a bright, refreshing twist.
- Sprinkles or Toppings: Before baking, sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips on top, or after they’ve cooled, adorn them with colorful sprinkles for a festive look.
- Toasted Coconut: Lightly toast some extra coconut flakes in a dry pan until golden, then sprinkle over the finished macaroons for added crunch and intensified coconut flavor.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
These macaroons are delightful whether served warm from the oven or at room temperature. For serving, arrange them on a pretty platter or in mini paper liners. They make a wonderful addition to coffee breaks, dessert tables, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. If you prefer them chilled, they can also be stored in the refrigerator. For longer storage, macaroons freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer in an airtight freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some common questions about making these easy coconut macaroons:
What kind of coconut should I use?
We highly recommend sweetened shredded or flaked coconut for the best flavor and texture. Unsweetened can work, but you’ll lose some sweetness and may need to adjust the condensed milk slightly.
Can I bake them instead of broiling?
Yes! If you’re nervous about the broiler, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as ovens vary.
Why are my macaroons spreading?
This usually means there’s too much sweetened condensed milk, making the mixture too wet. Ensure your coconut is thoroughly coated but the mixture still holds its shape firmly. You can try adding a tablespoon or two more coconut flakes to absorb excess moisture.
How do I know when they are done?
Under the broiler, they are done when the tops turn a beautiful golden brown. If baking, they are ready when the edges are golden and the centers are set.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These macaroons hold up well, making them perfect for preparing in advance for parties or meal prep. Store them as suggested above.
Explore More Easy Dessert Recipes
If you love the simplicity and deliciousness of these 2-ingredient macaroons, you’ll adore our other quick and easy dessert recipes:
- 2-Ingredient Pineapple Angel Food Cake
- 3-Ingredient Nutella Cookies
- 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
- 3-Ingredient Apple Spice Dump Cake
- 3-Ingredient Cherry Dump Cake
Don’t stop there! Explore all our fantastic recipes, including our popular copycat recipes, a wide array of dessert recipes, and our convenient Crock Pot Recipes.
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Recipe originally shared August 14, 2013. Updated and expanded March 9, 2020 and further revised for enhanced SEO and readability in 2024.