No Bake Salted Caramel Coconut Macaroons

If you’re a fan of chewy, sweet, and salty treats that require no oven time, then you’ll absolutely love these No-Bake Salted Caramel Coconut Macaroons. Combining the delightful flavors of sweetened coconut, rich caramel, creamy chocolate, and a hint of sea salt, these macaroons are the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert for a gathering, an easy snack for your family, or a last-minute treat for a party, these no-bake macaroons come together in no time. The best part? You don’t need any baking skills to create these delicious morsels—just a few ingredients, a little time, and a love for salted caramel!

In this detailed article, we’ll walk you through the entire process of making these delicious treats, along with tips, variations, and common questions. Let’s dive in and discover how to create your new favorite dessert!

Why You’ll Love No-Bake Salted Caramel Coconut Macaroons

1. No Oven Required: These macaroons are the perfect no-bake dessert, especially in warmer months when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen.

2. Sweet and Salty Perfection: The combination of rich caramel, sweet coconut, and a sprinkle of sea salt creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

3. Easy to Make: Even if you’re not an experienced baker, these macaroons are simple and foolproof. The ingredients come together quickly, and there’s no need to worry about overcooking or burning anything.

4. Great for Gifting: These macaroons make a perfect gift for friends, family, or co-workers. Their unique flavor combination and elegant presentation make them a great homemade treat for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need for No-Bake Salted Caramel Coconut Macaroons

To create these delectable treats, you only need a handful of ingredients, most of which you likely have in your pantry:

• 3 tbsp (45ml) milk: Helps to soften the caramel and bind everything together.
• 6 tbsp (84g) salted butter: Adds richness and enhances the caramel’s smooth texture.
• 11 oz bag Kraft caramels: These little caramels create the sweet, gooey foundation for the macaroons.
• 4–5 cups (288g-360g) shredded sweetened coconut: Provides texture and sweetness while making the macaroons chewy.
• 4 oz melting chocolate (e.g., almond bark): Used to coat the bottoms of the macaroons and add a smooth, rich flavor.
• Sea salt: A sprinkle of sea salt balances the sweetness and adds a gourmet touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make No-Bake Salted Caramel Coconut Macaroons

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started on making these irresistible macaroons!

Step 1: Melt the Caramel Mixture
In a large pot set over medium heat, add the milk, salted butter, and unwrapped Kraft caramels. Stir the mixture often, ensuring it melts evenly and does not boil. Once melted and smooth, you’re ready to add the coconut.

Step 2: Add the Coconut
Once the caramel mixture is smooth, stir in 4 cups of shredded sweetened coconut. If the mixture is too wet, gradually add more coconut (up to 5 cups) until all of the coconut is coated but the mixture is not overly sticky. You want the coconut to hold together without being too gooey.

Step 3: Form the Macaroons
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the mixture and place each scoop onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently press each macaroon into a round shape. This will ensure they hold together well once they cool.

Step 4: Cool Completely
Allow the macaroons to cool at room temperature until they are firm. This step is essential to make sure they hold their shape when dipped in chocolate.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
While the macaroons are cooling, melt the 4 oz of melting chocolate according to the package directions. Usually, this involves heating in the microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.

Step 6: Dip the Macaroons
Once the macaroons are firm, dip the bottoms of each one into the melted chocolate. Place them back on the parchment paper to dry. If you like, drizzle some additional melted chocolate over the tops of the macaroons for a decorative finish.

Step 7: Add Sea Salt
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle each macaroon with a pinch of sea salt. The salt not only enhances the flavors but also gives them a visually appealing, gourmet touch.

Step 8: Let Set
Allow the macaroons to set completely, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator if you’re in a hurry. Once firm, they’re ready to serve or store.

Variations and Flavor Twists for No-Bake Salted Caramel Coconut Macaroons

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few fun variations to try:

1. Chocolate-Covered Macaroons: Instead of just dipping the bottoms of the macaroons in chocolate, you can fully coat them for a decadent treat. Just dip the entire macaroon into the melted chocolate and let the excess drip off before setting them on parchment paper to cool.

2. Almond Joy-Inspired Macaroons: For a nutty twist, add slivered almonds to the coconut mixture. This will give the macaroons a crunch and a nutty flavor reminiscent of Almond Joy candy bars.

3. Caramel Drizzle: If you’re a caramel lover, melt some extra caramels and drizzle the caramel over the macaroons after they have been dipped in chocolate for an extra touch of gooey goodness.

4. Dark Chocolate Macaroons: For a richer flavor, swap out the milk chocolate for dark chocolate. The bitterness of the dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet caramel and coconut.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened coconut?
A: Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut, but the texture and sweetness of the macaroons will change slightly. If you do choose to use unsweetened coconut, consider adding a little extra sugar or caramel to balance out the flavors.

Q: How should I store these macaroons?
A: Store these No-Bake Salted Caramel Coconut Macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, store them in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month.

Q: Can I make these macaroons ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These macaroons are perfect for making ahead of time. Since they keep well at room temperature, you can prepare them a day or two in advance of a party or gathering.

Q: Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can make these macaroons vegan by using dairy-free butter and vegan caramel alternatives. You can also use dark chocolate that does not contain dairy for the chocolate coating.

Tips for Perfect Macaroons

• Monitor the caramel closely: When melting the caramels, make sure to stir frequently so that the caramel doesn’t boil or scorch. Keep the heat on medium to prevent burning.
• Don’t over-stir the mixture: Once the coconut is added, stir just until it is coated. Over-stirring can cause the mixture to become too sticky, making it difficult to work with.
• Customize with sprinkles or nuts: For an extra decorative touch, sprinkle toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or even colorful sprinkles on top of the macaroons before they set.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 14g

Conclusion

These No-Bake Salted Caramel Coconut Macaroons are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the combination of caramel, coconut, and chocolate with a touch of salt. Easy to make and even easier to eat, they’re sure to become a go-to dessert in your recipe arsenal. Whether you’re whipping them up for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something sweet, these macaroons will not disappoint. Enjoy!

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