Coconut Macaroon Nests Recipe

These Coconut Macaroon Nests are a delightful and festive treat that’s perfect for Easter or any spring celebration. These no-bake nests are made with a simple mixture of coconut flakes and egg whites, then filled with melted white chocolate and colorful candy eggs for a fun and delicious presentation.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Coconut Macaroon Nests:

• Egg whites: Help bind the coconut flakes together.
• Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Sweetened flaked coconut: Provides the base for the macaroon nests and adds a sweet and chewy texture.
• White chocolate chips: Melted, used to secure the candy eggs in the nests.
• Mini candy eggs: Adds a colorful and festive touch.
• Mini paper cupcake liners (optional): Can be used to line the muffin tin to prevent sticking.

How to Make Coconut Macaroon Nests

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Coat the cups of a mini muffin tin with cooking spray. If you’re concerned about sticking, you can also line the muffin tin with mini paper cupcake liners.

Step 2: Make the Macaroon Mixture

In a large bowl, lightly whisk together the egg whites, sugar, and salt until combined. Add the sweetened flaked coconut and mix with a fork until well combined.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the coconut mixture into each prepared muffin cup. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of each cup, creating a nest-like shape. Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. If the coconut starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the muffin tin with aluminum foil.

Step 4: Cool

Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the nests cool in the tin on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then, run a spatula around the edges of the muffin cups to loosen the nests and carefully remove them. Allow the nests to cool completely on the wire rack.

Step 5: Fill and Decorate

Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler. Transfer the melted chocolate to a piping bag or a small ziplock bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe a small amount of melted chocolate into the center of each nest. Add 2-3 mini candy eggs to each nest and gently press them into the melted chocolate to secure them.

Step 6: Store

Let the chocolate set completely. Once set, you can pack the Coconut Macaroon Nests in an airtight container for storage or gifting.

How to Serve Coconut Macaroon Nests

• Easter Treats: These Coconut Macaroon Nests are perfect for Easter parties, egg hunts, or classroom treats.
• Spring Snack: Enjoy them as a fun and festive spring snack for kids and adults alike.
• Dessert: Serve them as a simple yet satisfying dessert after a meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover nests in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

FAQs

Can I use unsweetened coconut flakes?

Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut flakes, but you may need to add a little more sugar to the mixture to compensate for the lack of sweetness.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate, but white chocolate complements the coconut flavor nicely.

Can I make these nests without a muffin tin?

Yes, you can shape the nests by hand and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

How can I make these nests vegan?

You can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as an egg white substitute and vegan chocolate chips.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Coconut Macaroon Nests that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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