Why Were My Coconut Macaroons Dry?

Our answer

We are sorry that you experienced this with your Coconut Macaroons, however we suspect that the coconut used was dried or desiccated coconut rather that the slightly sweetened, moist type of shredded coconut that is needed for the recipe. Dried coconut will tend to absorb all of the moisture from the egg whites, leaving more of a coconutty meringue than a soft and chewy macaroon.

Shredded coconut is fairly easy to find in the US, though more tricky in the UK. Baker's Angel Flake is the most common brand to find and can usually be bought through Amazon Gourmet and on-line American food suppliers. In the UK we suggest trying Stateside Candy Co., American Fizz and Melbury and Appleton. Panzer's in St John's Wood in London also often have the coconut and can sometimes mail order if you telephone them (please see their website).