Spring is in the air, and what better way to celebrate than with these adorable Coconut Macaroon Nutella Cookie Nests? These sweet little treats are crisp on the outside, chewy on the inside, and filled with a creamy Nutella center. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat, and trust me—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why You’ll Love Coconut Macaroon Nutella Cookie Nests
Festive and Fun: Perfect for Easter, spring parties, or any time you want a cute and delicious treat.
Easy to Make: No complicated steps—just mix, shape, and bake.
Gluten-Free: Naturally flourless, making them a great option for gluten-free diets.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet coconut and rich Nutella is pure bliss!
Ingredients in Coconut Macaroon Nutella Cookie Nests
Here’s what makes these cookies so special:
Sweetened Shredded Coconut: The base of the macaroons, giving them their signature chewy texture.
Egg Whites: Helps bind the coconut together and creates that perfect crispness on the outside.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
Nutella: The rich, chocolate-hazelnut filling that turns these macaroons into decadent nests.
Candy Eggs (Optional): A fun and festive garnish to complete the nest look!
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, egg whites, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined and the coconut is evenly coated.
Shape the Nests: Scoop small portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or a spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each mound.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
Cool: Remove from the oven and let the macaroons cool completely on the baking sheet.
Fill with Nutella: Once cooled, spoon Nutella into the center of each nest.
Add Decorations: If using candy eggs, place them gently on top of the Nutella.
Serve and Enjoy! These little nests are ready to be devoured.
How to Serve Coconut Macaroon Nutella Cookie Nests
As a Holiday Treat: Perfect for Easter baskets or spring dessert platters.
With Coffee or Tea: A delightful companion to your favorite warm beverage.
Gift-Worthy: Package them in a cute box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Additional Tips
Use Fresh Coconut: If you prefer, you can use unsweetened coconut and adjust the sugar to taste.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the edges—they should be golden brown but not too dark.
Make Ahead: These store well, so you can prepare them a day or two in advance.
Storage Tips: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different filling instead of Nutella?
A1: Absolutely! Try melted chocolate, peanut butter, or caramel for a delicious twist.
Q2: How do I prevent my macaroons from sticking to the pan?
A2: Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat helps prevent sticking.
Q3: Can I make these dairy-free?
A3: Yes! Just use a dairy-free chocolate spread instead of Nutella.
Q4: Can I freeze coconut macaroons?
A4: Yes! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q5: Can I add mix-ins to the coconut mixture?
A5: Sure! Chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of honey can add extra flavor.
Q6: Do I need a mixer to make these?
A6: Nope! Just a bowl and a spoon are all you need.
Q7: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A7: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Q8: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A8: Yes! Bake them in advance and fill them with Nutella just before serving.
Q9: Can I use unsweetened coconut instead?
A9: Yes, but you may need to increase the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
Q10: What’s the best way to shape the nests?
A10: Use a small cookie scoop for uniform size, then press the center with a spoon to form the nest shape.
Final Thoughts
These Coconut Macaroon Nutella Cookie Nests are the perfect way to add a little sweetness to your spring celebrations. They’re simple to make, full of flavor, and just the right amount of festive. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a gift, or just because, they’ll bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy!
Print
Coconut Macaroon Nutella Cookie Nests
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These adorable coconut macaroon nests are the perfect Easter-themed treat but just as delightful year-round. The combination of sweet, chewy coconut macaroons with a creamy Nutella center and chocolate mini eggs makes for a festive and irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 large egg white
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 3 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup Nutella
- 36 mini Easter eggs
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a cookie sheet or line with parchment paper.
-
Make the Macaroon Dough
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg white, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Stir in shredded coconut until fully combined.
-
Shape the Nests
- Drop about 2 tablespoons of the coconut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Shape each mound into a nest by pressing down the center with a spoon or your fingers to create an indent.
-
Bake the Macaroon Nests
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the nests are light golden brown.
- Let them cool completely on the baking sheet to set properly before transferring them to a wire rack.
-
Assemble the Cookie Nests
- Once the nests are completely cooled, fill each indent with 1 tablespoon of Nutella.
- Place three mini Easter eggs on top of the Nutella in each nest.
-
Serve & Enjoy!
- Let the cookies sit for a few minutes to set before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Make-Ahead: The macaroon nests can be baked ahead of time and filled with Nutella just before serving.
- Variations: Swap Nutella for melted chocolate or peanut butter for a different flavor twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg