There’s something undeniably enchanting about the bright hues of Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons, which come to life in your kitchen, reminiscent of holiday festivities and warm family gatherings. As I began experimenting with coconut macaroons, I was pleasantly surprised to discover how simple it is to create these beautiful treats that boast both texture and flavor. The chewy coconut swirled with sweet candied cherries creates a mosaic of colors, making them not just scrumptious but also visually stunning.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply want to treat your loved ones, these macaroons are a delightful choice. I often find myself reaching for the recipe when I want to impress guests without spending the whole day baking. It’s comforting to know that something so exquisite can come together in under an hour! Join me in exploring these easy-to-make Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons that are sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Why are Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons a must-try?
Visually Stunning: Their vibrant colors make these macaroons a showstopper on any dessert table.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these gorgeous treats ready in under an hour.
Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The combination of chewy coconut and sweet cherries creates a delightful taste harmony.
Versatile Recipe: Customize with your choice of colored cherries or even tropical fruits for a fun twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are always a hit at gatherings, effortlessly impressing both friends and family.
Low-Calorie Indulgence: At approximately 64 calories each, guilt-free enjoyment is within reach, making them a smart treat choice!
Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons Ingredients
For the Macaroon Mixture
• 6 large egg whites – Provide structure and leavening; ensure they are at room temperature for best results.
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; feel free to swap with almond extract for a different twist.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness, elevating the overall flavor profile.
• 3/4 cup sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a chewy texture; coconut sugar can be used for a less refined option.
• 8 cups sweetened shredded coconut (22 ounces) – The star ingredient for chewiness; opt for finely shredded for the best texture.
• 3/4 cup finely chopped green candied cherries – Introduces color and sweetness; dried cranberries make a great substitute if preferred.
• 3/4 cup finely chopped red candied cherries – Complements the green cherries, enhancing both visual appeal and taste.
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour – Contributes to structure; almond flour can be a great gluten-free alternative.
Feel free to gather these essential ingredients for making delicious Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons and get ready to impress your loved ones!
How to Make Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons
- Prep Egg Whites: Allow the egg whites to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, which helps achieve better volume when whipped.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake!
- Beat Egg Whites: In a clean mixing bowl, add vanilla extract and salt to the egg whites. Beat until foamy. Gradually add sugar while increasing the speed, continuing until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Mix Coconut and Cherries: In another bowl, combine the sweetened shredded coconut, green and red chopped cherries, and flour. Gently fold this mixture into the beaten egg whites until everything is well combined.
- Shape and Bake: Use a tablespoon to drop rounded mounds of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart. Bake for 14-16 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Cool: Once baked, allow the macaroons to cool on the pan for about 2 minutes before carefully transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Optional: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an added touch of indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons
- Egg Whites Matter: Ensure your bowl and utensils are entirely grease-free to achieve perfectly whipped egg whites for the best macaroon texture.
- Gentle Mixing: After folding in the coconut and cherries, avoid overmixing. This keeps your macaroons chewy and light.
- Uniform Size: Using a cookie scoop helps create uniform mounds for even baking, ensuring that all your Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons turn out perfectly!
- Storage Savvy: Store leftover macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for up to three months for later enjoyment.
- Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different colored cherries or even tropical fruits to customize your macaroons to your liking!
How to Store and Freeze Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons
- Room Temperature: Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and vibrant colors.
- Fridge: If you prefer to keep them longer, place the macaroons in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to a week, though they may lose some texture.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours. You can also lightly warm them in the oven at 300°F (149°C) for 5-10 minutes for that fresh-baked taste!
What to Serve with Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons?
These colorful delights are perfect for elevating your dessert table or sweetening up your afternoon tea.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of the macaroons. Their vibrant colors also pair beautifully on a platter!
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Rich Dark Chocolate: Drizzling or dipping macaroons in dark chocolate creates a rich contrast, enhancing the overall sensory experience. It’s an indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth!
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Coconut Milk Ice Cream: This creamy, dairy-free ice cream echoes the coconut base of the macaroons, creating a satisfying textural contrast. Serve side by side for a delightful tropical combination.
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Sweet Chamomile Tea: The subtle floral notes of chamomile tea can balance out the sweetness of the macaroons perfectly. Enjoy it warm for a comforting finish to your treat.
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Sparkling Lemonade: The refreshing zest of sparkling lemonade offers a bright and bubbly counterpoint, making it a wonderful accompaniment for finishing off a lovely meal.
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Mini Cheesecake Bites: These small, creamy desserts provide a wonderful texture contrast, and you can even add a cherry topping to echo the flavors of your macaroons.
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Fancy Coffee: A rich espresso or a frothy latte will enhance the flavors of the macaroons while giving you that cozy café vibe at home.
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Almond Biscotti: Serve alongside for a delightful crunch. Soaking the biscotti in coffee before enjoying it with your macaroon will create a balanced experience of flavors.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream makes a delightful pairing, bringing a creamy texture that contrasts with the chewy macaroons.
Have fun mixing and matching these pairings to create your perfect sweet spread!
Make Ahead Options
These Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising on flavor! You can prepare the macaroon mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the coconut, chopped cherries, and flour with the beaten egg whites. Simply refrigerate this mixture in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the chilled mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them in the oven. This allows for easy assembly right before serving, ensuring your treats are just as delightful and fresh! Enjoy the ease of having these gorgeous, chewy treats on hand for festive occasions or sweet cravings!
Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists that bring your macaroons to the next level!
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Tropical Twist: Replace the cherries with diced pineapple or a hint of orange zest for a sunny flavor boost. The fresh juiciness will transport your taste buds straight to a tropical paradise!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over cooled macaroons for a decadent touch. The combination of chocolate and coconut is simply irresistible, elevating your treats to gourmet status.
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Nutty Notes: Stir in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like almonds or pistachios, for an extra crunch. Nuts add wonderful texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger into the batter for a surprising heat element. The warmth balances out the sweetness, making them intriguingly delicious!
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Dried Fruit Delight: Swap in dried cranberries or apricots instead of candied cherries for a chewy, less sweet alternative. Their natural flavors bring a wholesome twist to each bite.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to cater to gluten sensitivities. This alteration maintains the integrity of the macaroon while adapting to dietary needs.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in a variety of colored cherries, or even dried blueberries for a colorful, fruity explosion. A blend of fruits not only adds visual appeal but offers a medley of flavors too.
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Minty Freshness: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist. The bright mint flavor can transport you to a festive wonderland, perfect for the holiday season!
Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use?
Absolutely! Using finely chopped green and red candied cherries not only adds sweetness but also creates a stunning visual appeal. If you’re looking for alternatives, dried cranberries provide a less sweet option while maintaining a lovely color contrast.
How should I store the macaroons?
For optimal freshness, store your Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, place them in the fridge for up to a week, although they may lose some of their signature chewiness.
Can I freeze Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons?
Very much so! To freeze them, start by placing the macaroons in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300°F (149°C) for a few minutes.
What should I do if my egg whites aren’t whipping up properly?
If your egg whites are not reaching stiff peaks, it may be due to grease residue on your mixing bowl or utensils. Ensure everything is completely clean and grease-free. Additionally, be sure your egg whites are at room temperature; this can greatly improve their ability to whip and hold air.
Are these macaroons suitable for people with allergies?
While Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons don’t contain any common allergens like gluten or dairy, they do contain egg whites and sugar, which some may wish to avoid. Always check your ingredients for any specific allergies or dietary requirements, and consider using alternatives like almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons: Colorful Coconut Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Allow the egg whites to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl, add vanilla extract and salt to the egg whites. Beat until foamy, then gradually add sugar while beating until stiff peaks form.
- In another bowl, combine coconut, green cherries, red cherries, and flour. Fold this into the beaten egg whites until well combined.
- Drop rounded mounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart. Bake for 14-16 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool on the pan for about 2 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.