Coconut Macaroons Dusted with Gold

I think it’s about time I share with you one of my most favorite, no fuss-sweet recipes. This recipe is particularly timely for Passover, as there is no flour and the leavening agent is egg whites. If you use an ice cream scooper to create a dome like shape, my macaroons are like mini cakes. For an elegant decadence, dip them in your favorite melted dark chocolate and give them a dusting of edible gold.  

Enjoy them as portable treats. Have them for a snack or they’re ideal when you don’t have much time but you’ve promised to bring over a sweet ending to a meal.

Through the ages we have transformed the macaroon from a delicate almond based biscuit to a moist coconut deliciousness.  I love french macaroons, but the coconut ones should not be overlooked. They possess a satisfying simplicity.

Coconut Macaroons

Makes 12

 2 cups shredded coconut

½ cup maple sugar

2 egg whites

½ teaspoon vanilla

Pinch of salt

2.5 oz bittersweet dark chocolate (I like Green and Black’s 70%)

1 oz ice cream scoop

 Preheat oven to 350° F

1.In a medium bowl, add salt to egg whites and beat with an electric mixer until stiff but not dry.

2. Using a spatula fold in the maple sugar and vanilla. Then stir in the coconut.

3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and scoop out 1 oz cookies. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

4.Allow to cool for 30 minutes.

5.Over low heat, melt chocolate in a small pan. Tip the pan on it’s side and dip half the macaroon in the chocolate. Allow to set in the refrigerator for 30 minutes on a parchment-lined tray.

6.Once the chocolate sets, use a small brush to sprinkle edible gold over the chocolate.