Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons

Name: Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: about 7 dozen.
Ingredients: 6 large egg whites; 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 8 cups sweetened shredded coconut (22 ounces); 3/4 cup finely chopped green candied cherries; 3/4 cup finely chopped red candied cherries; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

Macaroons are a timeless treat and a family favorite in our house. These merry morsels are always the first to disappear from the cookie tray. —Jamie Jones, Madison, Georgia

Ingredients

6 large egg whites
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup sugar
8 cups sweetened shredded coconut (22 ounces)
3/4 cup finely chopped green candied cherries
3/4 cup finely chopped red candied cherries
1/3 cup all-purpose flour

Directions

Place egg whites in a large bowl; let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 325°. Add vanilla and salt to egg whites; beat on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high after each addition until sugar is dissolved. Continue beating until stiff glossy peaks form. In another bowl, combine coconut, cherries and flour; stir into egg white mixture.
Drop by tablespoonfuls 1 in. apart onto parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Bake 14-16 minutes or until edges are golden. Cool on pans 2 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool. Store in an airtight container.

Freeze option: Freeze cookies, layered between waxed paper, in freezer containers. To use, thaw in covered containers.

Originally published as Stained Glass Cherry Macaroons in Holiday & Celebrations Cookbook 2015