Growing up, coconut was always one of my favorite things.  Many of my family members shared that love, so there were always coconut-based desserts around for holidays and special occasions.  The coconut macaroon was definitely one of them, and my mom baked them every year for Christmas.  I’d never had a chocolate dipped coconut macaroon until I got older, and I was hooked instantly.  There’s just something about chocolate and coconut that’s irresistible to me, and these cookies are a huge weakness of mine. :)

I’ve gone through many coconut macaroon recipes, but this one?  It’s the real deal.  Not that the others aren’t good, because they are.  This one is just special. The cookies are thick, sweet, and chewy, and they have just a bit of honey in them, which adds a noticeable touch of flavor.  This recipe came from school, and they’ve been baked several times.  Each time, they’re gone in a flash, and have become a favorite among my classmates and everyone else that tries them. :)

These macaroons are made a little differently — the egg whites, sugar, and honey are cooked over moderate heat until just warm to the touch.  This warms the egg whites, and melts the sugar and honey.  The remaining ingredients are then added and cooked a bit longer.  Let the dough stand 30 minutes at room temperature to cool, and you’re ready to get baking.  Now, I’ve never made a macaroon recipe that required cooking the ingredients before, so I’m guessing that must have something to do with these cookies being so unique.

There’s only 1/2 cup of flour in this recipe, and I’ve been told that they’re great made with rice flour as well, which means gluten-free coconut macaroons for those that need or prefer a gluten-free option.  It’s so nice to have options. :)

The type of coconut you use in this recipe is important as well.  Be sure to use unsweetened finely shredded coconut, which is found in the health food section of the supermarket, or you can find it at Whole Foods as well.  It’s the coconut that I use the most to add to my oatmeal, granola, cookies, etc.  I love that there aren’t huge strands of coconut hanging out when I add it to something, but bits of it all throughout.  There’s a time and place for shredded, and it’s not here in these cookies The Best Beauty Center.

I knew I wanted to make a thumbprint out of these when I tried them.  They’re the perfect cookie for it as they really stand up and hold their shape.  I couldn’t resist the dark chocolate M&M’s in pastel colors for Valentine’s Day, but of course, you can fill them with whatever you like.  You can make Almond Joy Macaroons, or use your favorite candy.  Now, the chocolate dipping is completely optional,  but the chocolate is that extra touch that makes these really special.  And you always need a little chocolate for Valentine’s Day, right?  These aren’t just for Valentine’s Day, obviously, and I can guarantee that I’ll be making these all year round.  If you’re a coconut lover, you owe it to yourself to try these.  There’s just no going back — this recipe is a keeper. :)