Irresistible Coconut Macaroons with Ube and Cheese Filling

  

A Filipino Treat You Can’t Get Enough Of

Coconut Macaroons with Ube and Cheese Filling


If there's one dessert that never fails to bring joy to both the eyes and the palate, it’s the humble coconut macaroon. But this isn’t just any coconut macaroon; this is the Filipino-style version, elevated with a delightful surprise inside—ube and cheese filling. These little treats, nestled in colorful mini cupcake liners, are more than just a snack; they’re a taste of home, a burst of nostalgia, and the perfect “pasalubong” (gift) for friends and relatives.

A Dessert Close to My Heart

Growing up, coconut macaroons were always a favorite in our household. I remember eagerly eyeing those cute, colorful mini cupcake liners, knowing that a sweet, chewy delight was waiting for me inside. There’s something so irresistible about them—their slightly crispy exterior giving way to a soft, moist, and chewy center. And the best part? Once you pop one in your mouth, you can’t stop at just one. They’re that addictive!

Adding ube and cheese filling takes this classic treat to a whole new level. Ube, or purple yam, is a staple in Filipino desserts, known for its vibrant color and subtly sweet, nutty flavor. Pairing it with the creamy, slightly salty taste of cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors that complements the coconut macaroon’s sweetness.

Recipe video:

Why Coconut Macaroons?

Coconut macaroons are a popular dessert in the Philippines, enjoyed by kids and adults alike. They are often given as gifts during visits, making them an ideal pasalubong. The reason they are so beloved is their simplicity—they’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and can be customized with various fillings and toppings. Plus, they keep well, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful coconut macaroons with ube and cheese filling, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Macaroons:

  • 6 pcs. egg yolk
  • 1 can condensed milk (300ml)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 400 grams of freshly grated coconut
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter

For the Meringue:

  • 6 pcs. egg white
  • 1/3 cup sugar

For the Toppings (Optional):

  • Grated cheese
  • Raisins

For the Fillings (Optional):

  • Ube halaya
  • Grated cheese

Instructions: How to Make Coconut Macaroons with Ube and Cheese Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line your mini cupcake pans with colorful cupcake liners—this adds a fun, festive touch to your macaroons.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks and condensed milk. Whisk until well combined.
  3. Sift the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt into the egg yolk mixture. Mix well.
  4. Add the vanilla extract and freshly grated coconut. Stir until the coconut is evenly coated with the mixture.
  5. Melt the unsalted butter and allow it to cool slightly. Pour the melted butter into the coconut mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The batter should be thick and sticky.

Step 2: Whip Up the Meringue

  1. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they start to froth.
  2. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites. Beat until stiff peaks form. The meringue should be glossy and hold its shape when you lift the whisk.
  3. Gently fold the meringue into the coconut mixture. Be careful not to deflate the meringue too much, as this will help keep the macaroons light and airy.

Step 3: Add the Fillings

  1. Scoop a small amount of the macaroon batter into each cupcake liner, filling them about halfway.
  2. Place a small dollop of ube halaya or a piece of grated cheese in the center of each macaroon. You can experiment with combining both fillings for a delicious contrast.
  3. Cover the filling with more batter until the cupcake liners are about three-quarters full.

Step 4: Bake and Enjoy

  1. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated cheese or place a raisin on top of each macaroon as a finishing touch.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.
  3. Once baked, remove the macaroons from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

The Perfect Pasalubong

These coconut macaroons with ube and cheese filling are not just a treat for yourself—they make the perfect pasalubong for friends and relatives. Whether you’re visiting someone or they’re coming to see you, these macaroons are sure to be a hit. The colorful cupcake liners, the surprise filling inside, and the delicious coconut flavor make them a gift that everyone will appreciate.

A Word of Warning

I must warn you, though—once you start eating these coconut macaroons, it’s hard to stop. They’re incredibly moreish, and you’ll find yourself reaching for just one more...and then another. But that’s part of the joy of these little treats; they’re meant to be enjoyed, savored, and shared with loved ones.

So, the next time you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, absolutely delicious, and perfect for sharing, give this coconut macaroon recipe a try. With their ube and cheese filling, these macaroons are sure to become a new favorite in your household, just as they are in mine.

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