Name: Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: 14 oz. oz sweetened flaked coconut; 7 oz. oz sweetened condensed milk; 1 tsp. tsp almond extract; 3 large egg whites (at room temperature); 1/4 tsp. tsp salt; 2 oz. oz chocolate candy melts (melted according to package instructions); Candy coated chocolate Easter eggs or Jelly beans; Peeps marshmallow Chicks

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There’s something magical about the arrival of spring, and what better way to celebrate than with Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests? As a child, I eagerly awaited this time of year, when colorful eggs and fluffy bunnies filled our homes. One of my fondest memories is baking these delightful nests with my family. The sweet aroma of toasted coconut wafting through the kitchen would always bring a smile to my face, making each bite feel like a little piece of joy. These treats aren’t just a feast for the taste buds; they’re a canvas for creativity, perfect for adapting to your family’s favorite candies. As we gather around the table, these Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests always steal the show, turning any gathering into a delightful celebration.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
57 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
27 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
4 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

What We Adore About This Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests

1. Nostalgic Charm

Each bite of these Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests transports me back to my childhood. There’s a special warmth that comes with sharing these treats, evoking memories of laughter and love. The combination of flavors is simple yet profoundly satisfying, reminding us of the joys of family traditions.

2. Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of ingredients like sweetened flaked coconut and sweetened condensed milk, these nests are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. You may already have most of them in your pantry, making this a go-to recipe for spontaneous baking days.

3. Creative Freedom

What I love most is the opportunity for creativity. You can fill these nests with your favorite candies, whether it’s crunchy chocolate eggs or colorful jelly beans. Each person’s unique twist adds a personal touch, making them a delightful centerpiece for Easter celebrations.

4. Perfect for All Ages

These nests are a hit with kids and adults alike. Baking them can become a fun activity for the entire family, where everyone can join in folding the egg whites or decorating the nests. It’s a great way to bond and create lasting memories together.

5. Beautiful Presentation

Not only do they taste fantastic, but the Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests are also visually appealing. With their golden-brown edges and vibrant candy toppings, they are sure to impress your guests, adding a festive flair to any table.

Ingredients Overview for Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests

The ingredients in Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests come together beautifully, each playing a crucial role. The star ingredient, sweetened flaked coconut, provides that signature chewy texture we all love. Meanwhile, sweetened condensed milk binds everything together, adding a rich sweetness. The inclusion of almond extract gives a subtle flavor that elevates these nests to new heights, while the egg whites create that fluffy structure. Finally, the decadent chocolate candy melts give a delightful finish, transforming these nests into a true Easter treat.

14 oz. sweetened flaked coconut – This ingredient is the heart of our nests. Its chewy texture and sweetness create the perfect base for this delightful treat.
7 oz. sweetened condensed milk – This creamy element acts as the glue, adding richness and sweetness to the nests.
1 tsp. almond extract – A splash of this extract enhances the flavor, giving the nests a lovely nutty aroma.
3 large egg whites, at room temperature – These fluffy whites are essential for adding volume and lightness to the nests.
1/4 tsp. salt – A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
2 oz. chocolate candy melts – Melted and drizzled, these add a luscious chocolatey flavor to the nests, making them extra special.
Candy coated chocolate Easter eggs or jelly beans – These delightful candies fill the nests, adding pops of color and flavor.
Peeps marshmallow chicks – These cute little candies are the perfect finishing touch, bringing a festive spirit to your nests.

Cooking Instructions for Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests

Making Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests is a delightful process that yields beautiful treats. Follow these simple steps for a successful batch that will impress everyone. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. This step is crucial as you want the nests to bake evenly. While the oven warms up, line your baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring that the nests don’t stick.
In a large bowl, combine 14 oz. sweetened flaked coconut, 7 oz. sweetened condensed milk, and 1 tsp. almond extract. Stir the mixture thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated. The goal is to coat the coconut well with the sweetened condensed milk, making it sticky.
Now, grab a mixing bowl and add 3 large egg whites along with 1/4 tsp. salt. Use a stand mixer or a hand mixer to beat the egg whites until medium peaks form. This is vital for the texture of your nests, so keep an eye on them to avoid over-beating.
Once you have those lovely peaks, gently fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites; you want to maintain that airiness. This folding technique will give your nests a delightful lightness.
Using an ice cream scoop (about 4 tbsp), scoop out portions of the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least 2 inches of space between each one. With your thumb, gently press the center of each mound to create a slight indent, forming a nest shape.
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 27 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown hue on the edges. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking.
Once baked, remove the nests from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. It’s tempting to dive right in, but they need to set!
After they’ve cooled, melt 2 oz. chocolate candy melts according to the package instructions. Dip the bottoms of the nests into the melted chocolate, then place them back on parchment paper to dry. This chocolatey touch adds a delightful flavor to the nests.
Finally, fill each nest with your choice of candy coated chocolate Easter eggs or jelly beans. Top them off with a cute Peeps marshmallow chick for that festive finish. Enjoy your beautiful Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests!

Things Worth Knowing

Egg Whites: Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when beaten.
Texture Check: Look for a light, fluffy texture in your beaten egg whites before folding them into the coconut mix.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the nests as they bake, aiming for a light golden color to avoid over-baking.
Cooling: Allow the nests to cool completely before decorating to ensure the chocolate doesn’t melt.

Recipe Tips about Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests

When it comes to creating the perfect Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests, a few tips can elevate your results. Here are some helpful insights to ensure your nests are a hit.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will help preserve their chewy texture.
Freezing: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the nests for up to a month. Just ensure they’re in a single layer in an airtight container.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with fillings! Try using different types of candy or even fresh fruit to create unique flavors.
Chocolate Melts: Use quality chocolate melts for dipping to enhance the flavors. You can also swirl in colors for added fun!
Presentation: Consider placing the nests on a colorful platter or wrapping them up as gifts for friends and family during the holiday.

What to Serve With Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests

Spring Celebrations: These nests are perfect for Easter brunch or any spring gathering, adding a festive touch to your table.
Side Desserts: Pair them with other light desserts like fruit salads or yogurt parfaits for a delightful meal.
Kids’ Parties: Their fun shape and vibrant toppings make them a hit at children’s parties, sure to bring smiles all around.
Picnics: Pack a batch for a picnic or outdoor gathering. They travel well and provide a sweet surprise for guests.
Seasonal Treats: These nests can also be a great addition to any spring-themed dessert table, complementing other floral or pastel-themed desserts.

FAQ

Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests are delightful, chewy desserts made primarily of sweetened flaked coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and whipped egg whites. These nests are shaped to hold colorful candies like chocolate eggs or jelly beans, making them a festive treat for Easter celebrations. The combination of textures and flavors creates a unique dessert experience that’s both sweet and satisfying.

To store your Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for up to three days. If you have leftovers, you can also freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure they are placed in a single layer in the container to prevent sticking.

Absolutely! You can prepare the Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests a day in advance. After baking and cooling, store them in an airtight container. Just add the candy toppings right before serving to ensure they remain fresh and vibrant.

This recipe is versatile! You can experiment with different fillings like M&Ms, caramel eggs, or even fresh berries for a fruity twist. For a chocolate lover’s version, consider adding cocoa powder to the coconut mixture or using chocolate melts for dipping. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

The Coconut Macaroon Easter Nests are a delightful blend of chewy coconut and sweet flavors that make them irresistible. They’re not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fun project to make with family. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy this special recipe together. You won’t regret adding this festive favorite to your spring celebrations!