Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the coconut mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed and the coconut is evenly coated.
Whip the egg whites: In a separate bowl, use a whisk or electric mixer to beat the egg whites and salt together until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, as you want to maintain some airiness.
Combine the mixtures: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the coconut mixture using a rubber spatula. Stop folding once just combined—this mixture should remain light and airy.
Shape the macaroons: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form small mounds of the mixture (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there’s some space between each mound to allow for spreading during baking.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are a lovely golden brown.
Cool the macaroons: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the macaroons cool completely on the sheet. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to dip in chocolate.
Melt the chocolate: While the macaroons are cooling, melt the dark chocolate chips along with coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy.
Dip the macaroons: Once the macaroons are cool, dip each one halfway into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off. Return them to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Add a finishing touch: For a decorative flair, drizzle any remaining melted chocolate over the dipped macaroons before they set.
Chill to set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, allowing the chocolate to harden beautifully.
Notes
Arrange on a decorative platter and drizzle with additional melted chocolate for presentation.