Chocolate & Pecan Macaroons

By AzWench

We love the rich chocolate flavor in these chewy cookies that are like a cross between higher-fat coconut macaroons and low-fat, low-calorie, egg-white-based meringues.

Ingredients

• 3 large egg whites, at room temperature (see Tips)
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted (see Tips)
• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
• 3/4 cup pecans, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Details

Adapted from cooking.com

Preparation

Step 1

Position racks in the upper and lower thirds of oven; preheat to 350°F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper, nonstick baking mats or lightly coat with cooking spray.

Beat egg whites and salt in a mixing bowl with an electric mixer on high speed until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until soft peaks form, about 5 minutes.

With a rubber spatula, gently fold melted chocolate, coconut and pecans into the egg whites until no white streaks remain.

Drop 2 teaspoons of batter per cookie about 1 inch apart onto the prepared baking sheets, fitting about 30 cookies per sheet.

Bake until set, 10 to 12 minutes. Turn off the oven and leave the macaroons in with the door slightly ajar for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool completely. Dust with confectioners’ sugar just before serving, if desired.