Growing up with the denser and cakelike Filipino coconut macaroons, I’ve always craved that authentic taste. Unlike the versions found in most US supermarkets, these mini cupcakes are a delightful blend of soft, chewy, and bursting with coconut flavor. When a friend shared the recipe with me, I knew I had struck gold.
By adding flour to the classic mix of sweetened condensed milk, butter, eggs, and desiccated coconut, I achieved the perfect balance of crispness on the outside and moist chewiness on the inside. These addictive treats are a must-try for any coconut lover. Get ready to indulge in the rich and satisfying experience of homemade Filipino coconut macaroon cupcakes.
Ingredients
Creating these delicious coconut macaroon cupcakes requires a few key ingredients divided into the base, frosting, and optional chocolate ganache.
Coconut Macaroon Cupcake Base
- 2 cups almond meal
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened ground desiccated coconut
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup coconut or olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coconut Meringue Frosting
- Sugar
- Cream of tartar
- Coconut extract
- Egg whites
- Toasted coconut for topping
- Quality chocolate for melting
- Butter
- Cream
These ingredients come together to create a delightful fusion of flavors and textures in each bite of these coconut macaroon cupcakes.
Equipment Needed
In order to make these delightful coconut macaroon cupcakes, you will need some essential kitchen equipment to ensure a smooth baking process. Here are the tools and utensils required:
- Muffin Tin: to bake the cupcakes and maintain their shape.
- Cupcake Liners: for easy removal and a clean presentation.
- Mixing Bowls: for combining and mixing the cupcake batter.
- Whisk: to blend the ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: for accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Spatula: for folding in the ingredients gently.
- Electric Mixer (optional): to beat the egg whites to stiff peaks efficiently.
- Piping Bag and Tip (optional): for frosting the cupcakes with precision.
- Oven: for baking the cupcakes to perfection.
Preparations Before Baking
Before diving into the baking process, it’s crucial to ensure that all the necessary preparations are in place to guarantee a smooth and successful baking experience. Here are some key steps to take before starting the baking process:
Prepping the Cupcake Tin
To begin, make sure to line your mini muffin pans with paper cups. This step will not only prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the pan but also make for easy cleanup afterward. Ensure that each cup is adequately lined for a seamless baking process.
Pre-making Coconut Flakes
In preparation for the recipe, pre-make the coconut flakes by toasting them until they are golden brown. This will enhance the flavor and add a delightful crunch to your coconut macaroon cupcakes. The toasted coconut flakes will be used as a topping, providing a visually appealing and tasty finish to your delicious treats.
Directions
Making the Cupcake Base
To start making the coconut macaroon cupcakes, we need to create the delicious cupcake base step by step. First, preheat the oven to 350°F and line the mini muffin pans with paper cups. Then, cream butter with sugar until fluffy, adding eggs, condensed milk, and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, combine flour and desiccated coconut, and mix it into the egg mixture until well combined. After, scoop the batter into the prepared muffin pans and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Preparing the Coconut Meringue Frosting
For the coconut meringue frosting, combine sugar, cream of tartar, coconut extract, and egg whites in a double boiler or a mixer bowl over simmering water. Cook until sugar is dissolved and egg whites reach 120-140°F. Transfer the mixture to a mixer, whisk until stiff peaks form, then fold in toasted coconut. This fluffy and flavorful frosting is perfect for the macaroon cupcakes.
Assembling the Cupcakes
To assemble the cupcakes, pipe the coconut meringue frosting onto the cooled cupcakes using a large round piping tip. Smooth out the mound with an offset spatula to get a nice round shape. Sprinkle more toasted coconut around the frosting for that classic macaroon look. These cupcakes are light, full of coconut flavor, and will be a hit at any gathering.
Adding Chocolate Ganache
For an extra touch of richness, add a layer of bittersweet ganache on top of each cupcake before the frosting. Heat heavy cream until simmering and pour it over bittersweet chocolate chips. Stir until smooth, then drizzle or spread a layer of ganache on the cupcakes. This decadent addition complements the coconut flavor perfectly, adding a hint of chocolate to these delightful treats.
Baking Tips
When making coconut macaroon cupcakes, a few baking tips can help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this delightful treat. Here are some important tips to keep in mind for successful cupcake baking:
1. Coconut Flavors:
Ensure to use high-quality coconut ingredients to enhance the coconut flavor in your cupcakes. Opt for desiccated coconut and coconut milk to infuse the baked goods with a rich and aromatic coconut taste.
2. Mixing Techniques:
When preparing the cupcake batter, mix it until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough cupcakes. Gentle folding of the ingredients will help maintain the light and airy texture of the cupcakes.
3. Proper Cupcake Filling:
To prevent overflowing or uneven cupcakes, fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full. This allows the cupcakes to rise evenly and avoids spilling over the edges during baking.
4. Oven Temperature:
Ensure that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before placing the cupcakes inside. A consistent temperature throughout baking is crucial for even rising and perfect browning of the cupcakes.
5. Cool Before Decorating:
Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before decorating them. Decorating warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt and lose its shape. Room temperature cupcakes provide the ideal surface for frosting and decorating.
With these baking tips in mind, you can create coconut macaroon cupcakes that are not only visually appealing but also bursting with delicious coconut flavor.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
After creating these delightful coconut macaroon cupcakes, it’s essential to know how to store them properly and serve them for the best experience. Here are some suggestions to ensure your cupcakes stay fresh and delicious:
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent drying out.
- Refrigeration: If you need to store the cupcakes for longer, place them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Before serving, allow them to come to room temperature for the best taste and texture.
- Freezing: These cupcakes freeze well. Wrap individual cupcakes tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Decorate with Toasted Coconut: Before serving, sprinkle some of the toasted coconut over the cupcakes for added flavor and texture.
- Drizzle with Caramel: Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce mixed with shredded coconut over the cupcakes for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch.
- Serve with Coffee or Tea: These coconut macaroon cupcakes pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. The combination of flavors is sure to impress your guests.
- Garnish with Fresh Berries: For a refreshing twist, garnish the cupcakes with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries to add a burst of color and freshness.
- Enjoy as Dessert or Snack: These cupcakes are versatile and can be enjoyed as a dessert after a meal or as a sweet snack during the day.
By following these storage and serving suggestions, you can ensure that your coconut macaroon cupcakes are enjoyed to the fullest, whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a special treat for yourself.
Conclusion
Creating coconut macaroon cupcakes is a delightful culinary adventure that brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures. From the rich coconut meringue frosting to the decadent chocolate ganache layer, each bite offers a symphony of taste. By following the detailed recipe guide and incorporating essential baking tips, you can ensure that your cupcakes turn out moist, flavorful, and visually appealing. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, these cupcakes are sure to impress with their tropical flair and sweet indulgence. Remember to store them properly to maintain their freshness and consider various serving suggestions to elevate the experience. With a touch of creativity and attention to detail, you can master the art of making coconut macaroon cupcakes that will be a hit at any gathering.