Keto Coconut Macaroons are a delightful treat that fits seamlessly into a ketogenic diet. These sweet, chewy cookies are made with unsweetened shredded coconut, egg whites, and a keto-friendly sweetener, offering a satisfying dessert without derailing your low-carb goals. With their crispy edges and tender centers, they deliver a classic coconut flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich, buttery texture.
The benefits of keto-friendly desserts like coconut macaroons are significant for those adhering to a ketogenic lifestyle. They allow for indulgence without compromising on nutritional goals, providing a way to enjoy sweet treats while keeping carbohydrate intake low. This makes them an excellent choice for maintaining ketosis, promoting stable energy levels, and avoiding sugar crashes.
Coconut macaroons, in particular, have a special appeal within the keto diet due to their simple yet flavorful ingredients. The natural sweetness of coconut, combined with the airy texture from beaten egg whites, creates a satisfying snack that feels indulgent without the extra carbs. Whether enjoyed as a post-meal dessert or a quick snack, these macaroons cater to the craving for something sweet while adhering to keto principles.
Keto Coconut Macaroons Recipe
Ingredients
- Unsweetened Shredded Coconut (2 cups, about 150 grams)
- Description: This is the primary ingredient, providing the chewy texture and distinct coconut flavor. Use unsweetened shredded coconut to avoid added sugars and ensure the recipe remains keto-friendly. Make sure it’s finely shredded for the best texture.
- Egg Whites (3 large)
- Description: Egg whites are crucial for achieving the macaroons’ light, airy texture. They are beaten until stiff peaks form, which helps create a fluffy consistency and binds the coconut together without adding extra fat.
- Erythritol (1/2 cup, about 100 grams)
- Description: Erythritol is a popular keto-friendly sweetener that provides sweetness without the carbs. It has a similar sweetness level to sugar but with negligible calories and carbs. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preference or substitute with other keto sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
- Description: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the macaroons. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor, but vanilla essence can be used as an alternative if necessary.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
- Description: A small amount of salt helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors of the macaroons. It’s essential for rounding out the overall taste.
- Optional Ingredients:
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (2 tablespoons)
- Description: Adds a chocolatey twist to the macaroons if desired. Ensure it’s unsweetened to keep it keto-friendly.
- Keto Chocolate Chips (1/4 cup, about 40 grams)
- Description: For a richer, more indulgent treat, you can mix in or use these chips for dipping. They add extra flavor and texture but will slightly increase the calorie content.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (2 tablespoons)
These ingredients combine to create a delicious, low-carb dessert that satisfies sweet cravings while adhering to ketogenic dietary principles.
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
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- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the macaroons from sticking.
2. Mix both Ingredients
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- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of unsweetened shredded coconut and 1/2 cup of erythritol (or other keto-friendly sweetener). Stir to mix the dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, use a whisk or an electric mixer to beat 3 large egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This means the egg whites should hold their shape and form peaks when the beaters are lifted.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. If desired, mix in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolate variation, or fold in 1/4 cup of keto chocolate chips.
3. Form and Bake
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- Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the macaroons are set. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
4. Cool and Serve Coconut Macaroons
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- Allow the macaroons to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
Once your Keto Coconut Macaroons are cool and ready to serve, enjoy them as a sweet treat or a satisfying snack. Their delightful combination of crispy edges and chewy centers makes them a perfect indulgence while staying on track with your keto diet. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer-lasting freshness. Relish these macaroons as a delicious and guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Also, Try: Keto Coconut Cream Pie, Low Carbs Keto Pound Cake, Keto Banana Bread.
Keto Coconut Macaroons are a delectable, low-carb dessert designed to satisfy your sweet cravings while adhering to a ketogenic diet. Made with just a few simple ingredients—unsweetened shredded coconut, egg whites, and a keto-friendly sweetener—these macaroons offer a delightful combination of crispy edges and chewy centers. Their naturally sweet coconut flavor, enhanced by a touch of vanilla, makes them a delightful treat without compromising your low-carb lifestyle.
These macaroons are not only delicious but also practical for those managing their carbohydrate intake. The recipe is easy to follow, and the resulting cookies can be enjoyed as a guilt-free dessert or snack. With the flexibility to customize with optional additions like unsweetened cocoa powder or keto chocolate chips, Keto Coconut Macaroons are a versatile and satisfying choice for anyone looking to indulge while staying within their dietary goals.
Keto Coconut Macaroons Nutrition Info
Here’s a nutrition table for Keto Coconut Macaroons, assuming the recipe makes about 15 macaroons and includes the basic ingredients (without optional additions):
| Nutrient | Per Macaroon |
Per Batch (15 Macaroons)
|
| Calories | 70-90 | 1,050-1,350 |
| Total Fat | 6-8 grams | 90-120 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5-7 grams | 75-105 grams |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 10-20 mg | 150-300 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4-6 grams | 60-90 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 2-3 grams | 30-45 grams |
| Sugars | 1-2 grams | 15-30 grams |
| Sugar Alcohols | 0-1 gram | 0-15 grams |
| Protein | 1-2 grams | 15-30 grams |
This table provides a general overview based on the basic recipe. For precise values, consider using a nutritional calculator with your exact ingredient measurements.
Here’s a consolidated nutrition table for each ingredient used in the Keto Pound Cake recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbohydrates | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Sugar Alcohols | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unsweetened Shredded Coconut | 2 cups (150g) | 560 | 50g | 45g | 0 mg | 10 mg | 20g | 15g | 8g | 0g | 6g |
| Egg Whites (3 large) | 3 large | 51 | 0g | 0g | 0 mg | 51 mg | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g | 11g |
| Erythritol (1/2 cup) | 1/2 cup (100g) | 0 | 0g | 0g | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0-5g | 0g |
| Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) | 1 teaspoon | 12 | 0g | 0g | 0 mg | 1 mg | 1g | 0g | 1g | 0g | 0g |
| Salt (1/4 teaspoon) | 1/4 teaspoon | 0 | 0g | 0g | 0 mg | 575 mg | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Optional, 2 tablespoons) | 2 tablespoons (15g) | 60 | 3g | 1.5g | 0 mg | 0 mg | 15g | 4g | 0g | 0g | 2g |
| Keto Chocolate Chips (Optional, 1/4 cup) | 1/4 cup (40g) | 200 | 18g | 10g | 0 mg | 0 mg | 15g | 4g | 5g | 0g | 2g |
For the most accurate nutritional information, check the labels of the specific products you use.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure Egg Whites Are Stiff: Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This is crucial for achieving the macaroons’ light and airy texture. If they’re not beaten enough, the macaroons may turn out dense and flat.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality unsweetened shredded coconut and other ingredients. This ensures the best flavor and texture.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: For consistent results, measure your ingredients precisely. This helps maintain the correct balance of flavors and textures.
- Avoid Overmixing: When folding the egg whites into the coconut mixture, be gentle. Overmixing can deflate the egg whites, leading to less fluffy macaroons.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the macaroons as they bake. They should be golden brown on the edges but not overly dark. Baking times can vary based on your oven, so adjust as needed.
- Cool Properly: Let the macaroons cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This prevents them from breaking apart while still warm.
- Experiment with Additions: Feel free to experiment with optional ingredients like unsweetened cocoa powder or keto chocolate chips to add variety and extra flavor.
- Store Correctly: Store the cooled macaroons in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Following these tips will help you achieve the perfect Keto Coconut Macaroons with the ideal texture and flavor. Enjoy your baking!
Keto Coconut Macaroons Recipe
Equipment
- Oven For baking the macaroons.
- Baking sheet To place the macaroons on during baking.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
- Mixing bowl To combine the ingredients.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer To beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Measuring cups and spoons For measuring ingredients.
- Spoon or Cookie Scoop: For shaping and placing the macaroons on the baking sheet.
- Cooling Rack To cool the macaroons after baking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (about 150 grams) of unsweetened shredded coconut
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup (about 100 grams) of erythritol or other keto-friendly sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Optional:
- 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder (for chocolate macaroons)
- 1/4 cup (about 40 grams) of keto chocolate chips (for mixing in or dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix 2 cups shredded coconut and 1/2 cup erythritol. Beat 3 egg whites until stiff peaks form, then fold into the coconut mixture with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add cocoa powder or chocolate chips if desired.
- Drop rounded mounds of the mixture onto the baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Egg White Consistency: Ensure egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks before folding into the coconut mixture. This helps achieve the light, airy texture of the macaroons.
- Measuring Coconut: Use unsweetened shredded coconut to avoid added sugars that can affect the recipe’s keto compatibility.
- Sweetener Adjustments: Erythritol is a common keto sweetener, but you can adjust the quantity based on your taste preference. Other keto sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia can also be used.
- Baking Time: Watch the macaroons closely as baking times can vary depending on your oven. They should be golden brown around the edges but not overly dark.
- Cooling: Allow the macaroons to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a cooling rack. They can be delicate and may break if moved too soon.
- Storage: Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage. They should remain fresh and tasty when properly stored.
- Optional Additions: Adding ingredients like cocoa powder or keto chocolate chips will increase the calorie count. Adjust your portion sizes accordingly if you include these extras.
Delicious Topping Ideas
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle:
- Melt some keto-friendly dark chocolate and drizzle it over the macaroons for a rich, indulgent touch. Use a fork or spoon to create elegant patterns.
- Shredded Coconut:
- Roll the macaroons in extra shredded coconut before baking, or sprinkle more on top after baking for added texture and flavor.
- Almond Slices:
- Add a few slivers of toasted almonds on top of each macaroon before baking for a crunchy contrast and a hint of nuttiness.
- Sea Salt Sprinkle:
- Lightly sprinkle a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each macaroon before baking. The salt enhances the sweetness and adds a gourmet touch.
- Berry Compote:
- Serve macaroons with a side of keto-friendly berry compote or sauce. Berries like raspberries or strawberries can add a fresh, fruity element.
- Coconut Cream:
- Top each macaroon with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra creamy and decadent treat.
- Chopped Nuts:
- Sprinkle finely chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Lemon Zest:
- Grate a bit of lemon zest over the macaroons for a burst of citrusy freshness that complements the coconut flavor.
These toppings can elevate your Keto Coconut Macaroons, adding variety and enhancing the overall taste and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened?
It’s best to use unsweetened shredded coconut for Keto Coconut Macaroons. Sweetened shredded coconut contains added sugars, which can increase the carbohydrate count and interfere with the keto diet’s goals. Using unsweetened coconut ensures that the macaroons remain low in carbs and suitable for a ketogenic lifestyle. If you use sweetened coconut, you’ll need to adjust the recipe and sweetener accordingly to balance out the added sugars.
How can I make these macaroons dairy-free?
Keto Coconut Macaroons are naturally dairy-free as they do not contain any dairy products. However, if you’re adding optional ingredients like chocolate chips or other toppings, make sure to choose dairy-free options. Here’s how you can ensure your macaroons remain dairy-free:
- Use Dairy-Free Chocolate: If you want to add chocolate chips or drizzle, choose dairy-free or vegan chocolate options. Check the labels to ensure they are free from milk products.
- Check Ingredients in Additions: For any other toppings or mix-ins, verify that they are dairy-free. Some pre-packaged ingredients may contain hidden dairy.
- Avoid Butter: The recipe does not require butter, but if you come across variations or substitutions that include butter, use a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil.
By following these steps, you can keep your Keto Coconut Macaroons completely dairy-free and suitable for those with dairy sensitivities or preferences.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can use a different sweetener in your Keto Coconut Macaroons. Here are a few keto-friendly alternatives to erythritol:
- Monk Fruit Sweetener: This sweetener is a popular choice in keto baking. It has a similar sweetness level to sugar and zero net carbs. Monk fruit sweetener is often blended with erythritol or other keto sweeteners to balance sweetness and texture.
- Stevia: Stevia is another low-carb, zero-calorie sweetener. It’s much sweeter than sugar, so you’ll need to use less. Opt for pure stevia extract or blends designed for baking.
- Allulose: Allulose is a low-calorie sweetener that mimics the taste and texture of sugar. It has a similar sweetness to erythritol and can be used as a 1:1 substitute.
- Xylitol: While xylitol is a keto-friendly sweetener, it has a higher glycemic index than erythritol. It can be used, but it’s less preferred for strict keto diets. Also, keep in mind that xylitol is toxic to dogs.
When substituting sweeteners, consider the following:
- Adjust Quantities: Different sweeteners have varying sweetness levels, so adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
- Texture Changes: Some sweeteners may affect the texture or moisture content of your macaroons. Experiment to achieve the desired consistency.
- Check for Other Ingredients: Ensure any new sweetener blends or products don’t contain added sugars or carbs.
Experimenting with these alternatives allows you to tailor the macaroons to your taste preferences while maintaining a keto-friendly profile.
What can I do if my macaroons are too dry?
If your Keto Coconut Macaroons turn out too dry, here are some tips to remedy the issue:
- Adjust Moisture Levels:
- Add More Egg Whites: If the mixture seems too dry, try adding a bit more beaten egg white. This will help bind the coconut and improve moisture.
- Increase Coconut Oil: Incorporate a small amount of melted coconut oil or butter (if not strictly dairy-free) into the mixture. This can help add moisture and improve texture.
- Check Baking Time:
- Reduce Baking Time: Overbaking can make macaroons dry. Keep a close eye on them and bake just until they are golden brown around the edges. Start checking a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests to avoid overbaking.
- Monitor Coconut Shredding:
- Use Fresh Coconut: Ensure you’re using fresh, properly shredded coconut. Old or overly dry coconut can contribute to dryness in the macaroons.
- Adjust Sweetener:
- Check Sweetener Types: If using granulated sweeteners, they can sometimes absorb moisture. Consider using powdered sweeteners or a different type to see if it helps with the moisture balance.
- Store Properly:
- Use an Airtight Container: Store the macaroons in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out further. A sealed container helps maintain moisture.
- Add Moisture-Rich Ingredients:
- Mix in Some Yogurt or Cream: For a slight variation, you can try adding a small amount of coconut yogurt or heavy cream to the mixture to add extra moisture.
Implementing these adjustments can help you achieve the right texture and moisture level for your Keto Coconut Macaroons.
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!