>>
Chewy coconut bites coated in silky chocolate with a hit of salted caramel. No baking required and ready in 15 minutes for an irresistible cookie everyone will love.
These Salted Caramel Coconut Macaroons are my answer to every time someone asks for a quick, impressive sweet that requires zero oven time. I discovered this combination on a lazy holiday afternoon when I had leftover shredded coconut and a bag of wrapped caramels in the pantry. The first batch came together in under 20 minutes and vanished at the party so quickly I barely had time to taste one. Now they are a staple when I bring a plate to potlucks or want a last minute treat for coffee and conversation.
What makes these cookies special is the contrast of textures and flavors. The shredded sweetened coconut gives a satisfyingly chewy interior while the melted caramels bind everything with a creamy, buttery sweetness. A dip of melted melting chocolate on the base adds a glossy finish and a bit of snap. A light sprinkle of sea salt on top elevates the caramel and makes each bite sing. These bites are simple, forgiving, and store well, which makes them ideal for gift boxes, cookie swaps, or an easy weekend indulgence.
In my house these always disappear first at gatherings. My neighbor told me she keeps a jar of these on her counter for unexpected visitors. I learned to use a cookie scoop for even sizes and a sheet of parchment to keep cleanup effortless. Little techniques like that have made this one of the recipes I reach for when I want an easy, memorable sweet.
My favorite aspect is how customizable these bites are. I swapped in dark chocolate for one batch and a peanut butter drizzle for another and both were instant hits. Family members have requested these for holiday boxes because they travel well and keep their shape. I also learned that stirring patiently while melting prevents grainy caramel and yields a glossy finish.
Store at room temperature in an airtight container layered between parchment to prevent sticking. They will keep for about four days at room temperature. If your home is warm, place the container in the coolest spot or refrigerate; chilled cookies can be returned to room temperature before serving so the caramel softens and the chocolate loses hardness. For freezing, arrange on a tray and freeze solid for an hour, then move to a sealed freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving.
If you need dairy free options, look for dairy free caramels and non dairy melting wafers. Swap in coconut oil for butter with a slight change to texture. For a less sweet version, use unsweetened shredded coconut with an extra tablespoon of sugar in the caramel melt or choose dark melting chocolate with 60 to 70 percent cocoa. If you prefer chewier macaroons, add up to a half cup more coconut but reduce the extra moisture so they do not become gummy.
Serve on a small platter with coffee or tea as afternoon treats. For a party, layer with other small cookies and add fresh berries to balance the richness. These are lovely with a short espresso or a lightly sweet dessert wine. Garnish with additional flaky sea salt or toasted coconut for contrast. For gifts, place in a small box with waxed paper and a ribbon.
These macaroons draw inspiration from traditional coconut macaroons that are popular across Europe and the Americas. While classic macaroons are often baked and sometimes dipped in chocolate, this version uses a stovetop caramel binder for a no bake preparation that is American in its use of wrapped caramels and convenience ingredients. The salted caramel trend elevated this treat by adding a savory note that contrasts beautifully with sweet shredded coconut.
In summer, use lighter chocolate and top with citrus zest for freshness. In winter, fold in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the caramel for holiday spice. For spring, add a few drops of almond or vanilla extract to the melted chocolate before drizzling for a fragrant finish. These little swaps keep the base technique the same while creating seasonal flavor profiles.
Form the clusters a day ahead and refrigerate uncovered for 30 minutes to set, then dip in chocolate the morning you need them. This reduces the time you spend finishing on the day of serving. Pre-measured ingredients stored in labeled jars make it quick to re-create a batch. Use small disposable piping bags for neater chocolate drizzles if you are preparing several trays.
These bites have become one of my reliable go to treats because they are fast, flexible, and always welcomed. Make them once and you will find a dozen little ways to personalize them based on gifts, guests, and seasons. Enjoy sharing these salty sweet coconut clusters with people you love.
Use a heavy bottom pot and melt caramels gently over medium low heat to avoid grainy caramel.
Start with 4 cups of coconut and only add the optional 5th cup if the mixture still looks loose; aim for tacky clusters not soggy ones.
Use a 1 and 1/2 tablespoon scoop for consistent cookie sizes which helps with even setting and presentation.
Press cookie tops slightly if you prefer flatter cookies before the mixture sets to make dipping easier.
This nourishing no bake salted caramel coconut macaroons recipe is sure to be a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every moist, high protein slice — it is perfect for breakfast or as a wholesome snack any time.
Yes. These keep at room temperature for up to four days in an airtight container. If your kitchen is warm, store in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
If you prefer firmer cookies, chill them in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before dipping in chocolate. For faster setting of chocolate, place the dipped cookies on a chilled tray.
Recipe data validation failed
Please check the recipe data format. See console for details.
Ultra-creamy baked cavatappi swirled in a silky three-cheese sauce and crowned with a bubbly cheddar top. Crowd-pleasing comfort that never leaves leftovers.
Sweet, portable, and simple — these three-ingredient strawberry protein balls are a quick snack you can make in ten minutes using pantry staples and fresh berries.
Fresh strawberries, creamy vanilla yogurt, and crunchy granola come together in cute frozen bites that are perfect for breakfasts, snacks, or lunchbox treats.
Leave a comment & rating below or tag @platemint on social media!
Enjoyed this recipe? Share it with friends and family, and don't forget to leave a review!
This recipe looks amazing! Can't wait to try it.
Comments are stored locally in your browser. Server comments are displayed alongside your local comments.
Join to receive our email series which contains a round-up of some of our quick and easy family favorite recipes.
