The Easy, 3-Ingredient Dessert from My Grandma’s Recipe Box

As I was preparing to make my big move to Alabama for a yearlong fellowship with Allrecipes following graduation, I decided to rummage through my Grandma Soliz’s recipe box to find some family recipes to make in my new home. After all, I was finally a college graduate and didn’t want to rely on ramen and Cheez-Its anymore. I took photos of the recipes I was drawn to and they’ve lived in my camera roll since May of last year.

But now that I’m finally settled into my post-graduate life, I looked back at those recipe cards and stumbled upon an interesting recipe for a macaroon-like cookie called Kentucky Coconut Drops I just had to share. 

What Are Kentucky Coconut Drops?

According to my 64-year-old grandma, this recipe originated from her good friend Barbara Weaks from Murray, Kentucky. Weaks and Grandma were friends for years, meeting through mutual friends in Illinois, and while Weaks may have passed away in 1989, her recipe helps keep her memory alive. 

Similar to a meringue, the dessert is made up of egg whites, confectioner’s sugar, and—the star of the show—grated coconut. When baked, they turn into perfectly chewy and sweet cookie-like drops (hence the name).

How to Make Kentucky Coconut Drops

As somebody who can’t read cursive very well, deciphering the handwriting on the recipe card was a little difficult—but luckily I was able to translate everything. With just three ingredients, the treats come together quickly and bake in the oven just as fast.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 egg whites
• 1/4 pound confectioners sugar
• 1/2 pound grated coconut

Directions

Beat the egg whites until stiff. Slowly incorporate the confectioners sugar and grated coconut. Then, drop spoonfuls of them on “buttered” pans and bake in a 325 degree F oven until brown.  Eat warm and enjoy!