Recipe: Chocolate Coconut Clouds (meringue cookies)

CHOCOLATE COCONUT CLOUDS

"These chocolate cookies are the perfect size when you want something big and chocolaty. I like to serve them for dessert, lightly dusted with confectioner's sugar. But even without the dusting their taste and texture is so light and airy, just like a cloud. Alternatively, you can make these much smaller, scooping them by the teaspoon."

8 ounces (250 g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped
4 egg whites
3/4 cup (175 mL) granulated sugar
2 cups (500 mL) packed sweetened flaked coconut

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave chocolate, uncovered, on Medium (50%) for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, or until chocolate is soft and almost melted. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.

In a bowl, using an electric mixer, whip egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, whipping until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into chocolate just until blended. Fold in coconut.

Scoop batter with 1/4-cup (50 mL) measure and mound on prepared baking sheets, about 3 inches (7.5 cm) apart.

Bake in preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until puffed, cracked and lightly firm to the touch. Let cool completely on baking sheets on racks.

TIPS:
Don't make these cookies on a rainy day, as the moisture will affect the cookies (they won't be crisp, but will be sticky instead). These cookies are best eaten the day they're made.

Do not remove these cookies from the baking sheets until they are completely cool. They are quite fragile and will break if you try to lift them off the parchment paper too early.

Makes 16 large cookies
Source: 125 Best Chocolate Recipes by Julie Hasson