Macaroons

Macaroons are the best things ever. Fact!

They are an incredibly simple-to-make sweet treat. Chewy and moist on the inside, crispy and golden on the outside. There is nothing more perfect.

They keep well and should last you throughout the week. You know, if you're not a greedy little pig like myself. They don't need many ingredients too so if you have a few eggs and desiccated coconut in the cupboard then a batch of fresh sweet macaroons can be yours in under half an hour!

Yes, that's right, there are a few black edges to my macaroons.

You say burnt, I say crunchy.

This is such a simple recipe that will take no time at all! Just imagine, in around half an hour, you could be sitting in front of a batch of freshly-baked warm macaroons. Tempting, right?

Ginger and coconut are a great team which is why I thought I'd match them up. If you're not a fan of ginger, never fear! There are so many amazing pairings with coconut - lime, vanilla, pineapple etc so feel free to experiment and try something new.

I have recently discovered a wonderful website that will probably change your life. It tells you what flavours pair well together in recipes! So useful and it allows you to get creative in the kitchen and transform recipes with new and unusual flavours that you know will work! Check it out here:

Flavours Pairings Website

Now let's get cracking and make some macaroons!

Ingredients

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (more if you want an added kick!)

4 tablespoons maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

150g desiccated coconut

Pinch of salt

3 large egg whites

Method

Preheat that oven to 170C and line a baking sheet with baking parchment.

Put the ground ginger, maple syrup, coconut and vanilla extract into a large bowl.

In another bowl, whisk the salt and egg whites until they form stiff peaks.

Then gently fold the egg whites into the other mixture.

Make little balls very gently using your hands and place them onto the baking tray, leaving enough space in between.

This mixture should make enough for around 10-15.

Cook in the oven for around 10-12 minutes until the macaroons are a nice golden colour! Although mine went a little over so a nice light brown works too.

As a little added bonus for you (don't say I don't spoil you!) I thought I'd give you a recipe for my favourite drink of the moment. Drumroll please...

Turmeric milk!

Or more popularly referred to as 'Golden Milk'

Turmeric and milk together does sound slightly revolting but it is something that I insist you must try. It's all the rage! Everyone is talking about it as it not only tastes divine but the ever-growing list of incredible health benefits make it a must try to see you through the coming cold months.

All you have to do is mix all the ingredients together in a saucepan, bring to the boil and then simmer. Take it off the heat and pour into a mug. Let it cool a little before taking a sip and entering a heavenly bliss!