Ambrosia Macaroons Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that combines tropical flavors with a satisfying chewy texture, look no further than this Ambrosia Macaroons Recipe! These macaroons are a playful twist on the classic coconut treat, with the addition of sweet dried pineapple and vibrant maraschino cherries, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a special afternoon treat, these macaroons will undoubtedly impress your friends and family.
Why It’s My Go-To
What I love most about this Ambrosia Macaroons Recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies in no time. The combination of coconut, pineapple, and cherries not only makes them visually appealing but also elevates their taste to a whole new level. Each bite delivers a chewy texture paired with a fruity sweetness that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them a versatile option for various dietary preferences!
Your Shopping Guide
When you decide to make these Ambrosia Macaroons, be sure to grab the following ingredients:
- 5 1/2 tablespoons butter – Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- 1/2 cup white sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the coconut’s richness.
- Pinch of salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon finely grated orange peel – For a zesty aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – A classic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 2 large eggs – Acts as a binder for the macaroons.
- 4 1/2 cups packed sweetened shredded coconut – The star of the show!
- 1/4 cup finely diced dried pineapple – Adds a tropical twist.
- 15 maraschino cherries – Drained and cut in half for a pop of color and flavor.
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (optional) – For dipping or drizzling for added decadence.
What’s in the Gear List
Before you dive into the kitchen, make sure you have the following tools:
- Baking sheet – A flat surface to bake the macaroons on.
- Parchment paper – To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowl – For combining all your ingredients.
- Whisk or electric mixer – To mix the ingredients until smooth.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – To portion out the macaroons evenly.
- Microwave-safe bowl (if using chocolate) – For melting chocolate easily.
Ambrosia Macaroons Recipe Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that your macaroons bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the macaroons from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and white sugar. Using a whisk or electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add in the Eggs and Flavorings
Add the pinch of salt, finely grated orange peel, vanilla extract, and the two large eggs to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Fold in the Coconut and Pineapple
Gently fold in the sweetened shredded coconut and the finely diced dried pineapple. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that fluffy texture.
Step 6: Add the Maraschino Cherries
Lastly, fold in the halved maraschino cherries. These little gems will add bursts of color and flavor to your macaroons.
Step 7: Scoop the Mixture
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Step 9: Cool and Optional Chocolate Dip
Once baked, remove the macaroons from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. If you’re using chocolate, melt it in a microwave-safe bowl, then dip the bottoms of the cooled macaroons in the chocolate. Place them back on the parchment paper to set.
Fit It to Your Goals
If you want to customize your Ambrosia Macaroons, consider these options:
- Use unsweetened shredded coconut for a less sweet version.
- Swap out the dried pineapple for other dried fruits, like mango or cherries.
- Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut extract, for added flavor.
- For a chocolate lover’s twist, add cocoa powder to the batter or use milk chocolate for dipping.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter any issues while making your Ambrosia Macaroons, here are some helpful tips:
- If your macaroons are spreading too much during baking, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before scooping.
- For drier macaroons, reduce the baking time slightly.
- If they’re too moist, ensure you’re using fresh coconut and not the kind that’s been sitting in your pantry for too long.
- You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference, but keep in mind that this may affect the texture.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
To keep your Ambrosia Macaroons fresh:
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just ensure they are cooled completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Ambrosia Macaroons Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut?
While you can use fresh coconut, it’s essential to dry it out first to achieve the right texture. Shredded coconut is usually sweetened and dried, giving the macaroons their signature chewy texture.
What can I substitute for maraschino cherries?
If you prefer another flavor, you can use diced dried cherries or even fresh cherries. Just ensure they are pitted and cut into small pieces.
Why did my macaroons flatten out in the oven?
This can happen if the dough is too warm or if there’s too much moisture. Make sure to chill the dough before baking and measure your ingredients accurately.
Can I make these macaroons vegan?
Yes! To make these Ambrosia Macaroons vegan, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use a plant-based butter alternative.
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Bring It Home
Now that you have all the details for making these delightful Ambrosia Macaroons, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or serving them at your next gathering, these treats are sure to be a hit. So go ahead, indulge in the tropical flavors of coconut, pineapple, and cherries in every bite. Happy baking!
Ambrosia Macaroons Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that your macaroons bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the macaroons from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and white sugar. Using a whisk or electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the pinch of salt, finely grated orange peel, vanilla extract, and the two large eggs to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Gently fold in the sweetened shredded coconut and the finely diced dried pineapple. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that fluffy texture.
- Lastly, fold in the halved maraschino cherries. These little gems will add bursts of color and flavor to your macaroons.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
- Once baked, remove the macaroons from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. If you’re using chocolate, melt it in a microwave-safe bowl, then dip the bottoms of the cooled macaroons in the chocolate. Place them back on the parchment paper to set.
Notes
- Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freeze cooled macaroons in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Experiment with different dried fruits for a unique twist!
