Satisfy the sweet tooth in a way that feels simultaneously indulgent and healthy – while also being incredibley easy to bake up.
Doesn’t sound possible, I know, but these pumpkin coconut macaroons are indeed both. They’re also gluten-free and vegan making this an ideal recipe to share at holiday gatherings and potlucks.
To Spice or Not
I know this time of year, screams for pumpkin spice everything. I’m a fan of itself myself adding to muffins, candy, and more. In these macaroons, however; I’ve skipped any spice to allow the coconut and pumpkin to be the dominant flavors. If that seems like too much of a sin, add ½ teaspoon of pumpkin spice with the starch.
Any Winter Squash
Canned pumpkin works perfectly in these cookies. However, most any cooked and pureed winter squash would also work. If you have something leftover from other meals, use it here with confidence. I’ve used lower salmon river squash and sweet meat squashes with great success.
Optional Chocolate Dip
Give the macaroons an extra hit of flavor and beauty by dipping some in melted choclate. Dip the bottoms or tops as desired. You could also just drizzle with some melted chocolate for a stripes effect.
Use whatever chocolate you prefer. Something dark will generally keep it vegan, milk or white chocolate will often include milk meaning they are no longer vegan.
Macaroon Size
Make the cookies as big or small as you prefer. Small bite-sized pumpkin macaroons are ideal for filling up a big platter at a potluck or as part of a dessert buffet
Bigger macaroons might be more appropriate for simple desserts after a meal or for serving at afternoon coffee or tea.
How to Serve
There’s no reason to make this complicated, macaroons are easy and delightful all on their own.
Serve these tasty treats alongside your favorite warm drink for an easy fall or winter treat.
On a cold night, serve it alongside some dairy-free hot chocolate for a truly indulgent dessert.
Pumpkin Coconut Macaroons
Pumpkin Coconut Macaroons are a delicately sweetened gluten-free and vegan fall-inspired cookie sure to soothe the sweet tooth and please a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Pumpkin (or other winter squash) Puree
- ⅓ Cup Maple Syrup
- 3 Cups Shredded, Unsweetened Coconut
- ⅔ Cup Tapioca or Arrowroot Starch
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut, starch, and salt. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and pumpkin until emulsified.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix well. It will seem stiff, just keep mixing.
- Form the batter into tight balls between the palm, or use a cookie scoop before placing on prepared baking sheet. The macaroons don't spread, feel free to place them close together on the pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Remove to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
24Serving Size:
1 cookieAmount Per Serving: Calories: 100Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 28mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 1g
We try our best but cannot guarantee that nutrition information is 100% accurate.
Lisa Lynn (@lisalombardo5)
Thursday 10th of October 2013
Yum! Thanks for sharing on The HomeAcre Hop! Hope you'll stop by again today :)
tessa
Thursday 3rd of October 2013
Yummy - thanks for the idea! We shared this with our FB readers at homesteadlady.com.
Teresa
Wednesday 2nd of October 2013
Would corn starch work as a 1/1 substitution? I have squash and coconut, but not the tapioca starch.
Kathie
Wednesday 2nd of October 2013
I haven't tested it but my understanding is that it would definitely work 1/1.