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Homemade Brown Sugar Orange Macaroons recipe photo

Brown Sugar Orange Macaroons

These Brown Sugar Orange Macaroons are chewy, crispy, and bursting with bright citrus and caramel sweetness. A simple, elegant treat perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter room temperature
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated orange peel
  • 3 large eggs
  • 24 ounces sweetened flaked coconut

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Microplane or fine grater
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Cookie scoop or spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and help the macaroons bake evenly.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Mix in the kosher salt and the finely grated orange peel until just combined. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a smooth, cohesive mixture.
  4. Gently fold the sweetened flaked coconut into the wet ingredients using a spatula, ensuring each flake is well coated without overmixing.
  5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded mounds of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the tops are set. The macaroons should be crisp on the outside but chewy in the center.
  7. Allow the macaroons to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.
  • Try substituting orange peel with lemon or lime zest for a citrus twist.
  • Use honey instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetener, but expect slight texture changes.
  • Ensure butter is at room temperature for proper creaming with sugar.
  • Do not overbake to keep the macaroons chewy inside.