Kokosmakronen (Kokosbusserl) - German Coconut Macaroons

Ingredients

• 2 large egg whites
• 2/3 cup (125g) granulated sugar (or superfine (caster) sugar)
• 2 cups (150g) finely shredded unsweetened coconut*
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon lemon juice
• small pinch of salt
• 15 Backoblaten (baking wafers)
• 2 ounces (60g) bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a clean, dry, and fat-free mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites using a whisk attachment until they form soft peaks (those are peaks that gently bend over when the whisk is lifted). Gradually add the granulated or superfine sugar while continuing to whisk until the mixture is glossy and holds its shape. It will take about 5-10 minutes when using superfine sugar and 10-15 minutes if using granulated sugar.

3. 3

   Gently fold in the finely shredded unsweetened coconut, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a small pinch of salt into the meringue mixture until evenly combined.

4. 4

   If using Backoblaten, place them on the prepared baking sheet. Using an ice cream scoop (or two spoons), scoop the coconut mixture onto the Backoblaten in small mounds. If not using Backoblaten, scoop them directly onto the parchment paper.

5. 5

   Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cookies are light golden in color. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. 6

   Optional Chocolate Coating: Melt the bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate using a double boiler method (by placing chopped chocolate in a bowl set over a pot with simmering water) or use a microwave. Dip the cooled cookies into the melted chocolate or drizzle it over the tops. Allow the chocolate to set before serving. The specified amount of chocolate is enough for dipping the bottoms of the cookies; if you want to also drizzle chocolate on top, you'll need additional chocolate.

7. 7

   Enjoy!