Festive Chocolate-Coconut Alfajor Macarons

What Makes This Special

These festive Chocolate-Coconut Alfajor Macarons take inspiration from the beloved Argentine coconut alfajores, transforming them into an easy, coconut-forward winter treat. Crisp on the outside, chewy inside, and sandwiched with a luscious dark chocolate-coconut ganache, they’re perfect for holiday parties or cozy afternoons. Coconut shines as the star ingredient, offering a naturally gluten-free, uniquely aromatic, and snowy look—enhanced by rich chocolate and playful decorations.

Ingredients

Every ingredient is carefully chosen to highlight flavor, texture, and the ease of Argentine baking traditions.

For the Coconut Macaron Shells

• Desiccated coconut: The backbone, providing structure, tropical aroma, and a pretty, snow-like finish.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens, helps the coconut bind.
• Egg whites: Give lift and chew; using room temperature egg whites is key for volume.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out coconut’s flavor.

For the Chocolate-Coconut Filling

• Dark chocolate: Provides depth and a festive, rich color.
• Heavy cream: Creates a silky ganache.
• Butter: Adds gloss and a creamy mouthfeel.

For Decoration (Optional)

• Sugar pearls or edible glitter: For a snowy, festive look.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep & Line

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps your macarons bake evenly.

Step 2: Make the Coconut Mixture

In a large bowl, combine 120 g desiccated coconut and 100 g sugar. Mix well. Add 2 egg whites and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is fully moistened and holds together when squeezed. The coconut should look snowy and cohesive.

Step 3: Shape the Macarons

Using a piping bag (or two teaspoons), pipe or scoop 32 small mounds (about 3 cm wide) onto the baking sheet. Space them 2 cm apart. Gently flatten the tops for classic alfajor shape.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 13–15 minutes, until the edges are golden brown but centers are still soft. Rotate the tray halfway through for even color. Let cool fully on the tray—they’ll firm as they cool.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate-Coconut Ganache

While shells cool, place the 70 g chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat 50 ml cream in a small saucepan until steamy but not boiling. Pour cream over chocolate; let sit 1 minute. Stir smooth. Add 20 g butter and stir until glossy. If desired, stir in 1–2 tbsp extra coconut for more texture. Cool until thick but spreadable (about 20 minutes at room temp).

Step 6: Assemble

Pair up coconut shells of similar size. Spoon or pipe about 1 tsp ganache onto the flat side of half the cookies. Top with the other halves, pressing gently to spread the ganache to the edges.

Step 7: Decorate & Serve

For a festive finish, sprinkle edges with extra coconut, sugar pearls, or edible glitter. Serve immediately or chill briefly to set the filling before serving.

Pro Tips

• Use fine, unsweetened coconut for the best macaron texture and a snowy look.
• Don’t overbake: Macarons should be golden at the edges but still moist in the center for that classic chewy bite.
• Room temperature egg whites whip easier and blend better, giving lighter macarons.

Troubleshooting

Macarons spreading too much? The mixture may be too wet. Add 1–2 tbsp more coconut and mix again.

Ganache too runny? Let it cool longer, or stir in extra coconut to thicken.

Variations

• Dulce de Leche Filling: Replace the chocolate ganache with classic Argentine dulce de leche for a traditional alfajor twist.
• White Chocolate & Lime: Swap dark chocolate for white, add 1 tsp lime zest for a fresh, tangy contrast.
• Nutty Coconut: Add 30 g chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts to the coconut shell mixture for crunch.

Storage

Store macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. For the best texture, let chilled macarons sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

These coconut alfajor macarons bring Argentine warmth to your winter table with maximum coconut flavor, minimal effort, and a festive holiday flourish!