Chocolate Macaroons
The holiday season often comes with a mix of excitement, tradition, and stress, especially for athletes. Training doesn’t stop just because it’s December, yet food choices suddenly feel polarized: either ultra “clean” or complete indulgence. I created this chocolate macaroon recipe to sit comfortably in the middle.
These macaroons are rich, chocolatey, naturally gluten-free, and made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. They’re easy enough to make between training sessions and festive enough to earn a spot on your holiday table. Most importantly, they help athletes satisfy a sweet tooth without guilt or overthinking, something that matters just as much as the nutrients themselves.
Food is fuel, but it’s also culture, joy, and connection.
Why Macaroons are an Underrated Athlete Treat
When athletes think about performance nutrition, desserts are often the first thing to be restricted. But completely removing enjoyable foods can backfire, leading to cravings, overeating, or an unhealthy relationship with food. Instead of labelling foods as “good” or “bad,” this recipe focuses on balance.
Why Chocolate Macaroons Work for Athletes
Carbohydrates to support training demands and replenish glycogen
Fats that slow digestion slightly, helping with satiety
Simple ingredients that are easier on digestion compared to heavily processed sweets
Portion-friendly size: you can create your own cookie size, which means one or two go a long way
Around the holidays, athletes often increase training stress (year-end goals, winter races, or strength blocks). That combination of physical stress and mental restriction can increase the desire for sugar. These macaroons allow space for enjoyment without throwing nutrition out the window.
A Christmas Tradition worth keeping
This chocolate macaroon recipe is one I make every Christmas. Not because it’s flashy or trendy, but because it’s reliable. It doesn’t require fancy equipment, hours of prep, or advanced baking skills. You mix, scoop, set, and enjoy. That simplicity matters, especially during a busy season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this recipe? It’s short, simple, and easy for anyone to make
Core Ingredients
Unsweetened shredded coconut - 1.5 cups
Semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1 cup
A pinch of salt (optional)
Coconut oil (optional) - 2 teaspoons
Each ingredient plays a role:
Coconut provides texture and healthy fats
Semi-Sweet Chocolate supports sweetness & quick energy
Salt enhances flavour, provides an electrolyte top-up and balances sweetness
How to Make Chocolate Macaroons (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is intentionally straightforward, making it accessible even if baking isn’t your strong suit.
Step 1: Prep
Line a plate or baking tray with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. Place a medium sized pot on medium heat on your stove top.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a pot, melt your chocolate chips until they are liquid (if you prefer a thinner chocolate, add some coconut oil). Once melted, add your coconut and salt. Stir well to ensure the chocolate is evenly distributed. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Scoop
Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, portion the mixture onto the baking tray. You don’t need to flatten them; the macaroons will hold their shape.
Step 4: Set and Enjoy
Place the macaroons into your fridge and allow them to cool & harden.
Tools Required
Large plate or baking sheet
Parchment paper
Medium-sized pot
Spoon or ice cream scoop
Spatula (for stirring and combining)
Nutritional information per Macaroon (including optional ingredients coconut oil and salt. Makes 12 Macaroons)
Calories : 199 Carbs : 14g Protein : 3g Fats : 14g
Mental performance counts too
Food restriction increases stress. Stress impacts sleep, recovery, hormones, and training quality. Allowing enjoyable foods, especially during emotionally charged seasons like the holidays, supports both physical and mental performance.
When to eat these as an Athlete:
There’s no “perfect” time, but here are a few practical ideas:
Post-training treat alongside a balanced meal
Afternoon snack on lighter training days
Holiday dessert without needing to “make up for it” later
One or two macaroons paired with protein or a meal can fit seamlessly into your day.
Storage, Freezing, and Holiday Prep Tips
These macaroons are ideal for holiday prep during busy days.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
They freeze wonderfully if you want to prep ahead or keep them into the new year
Balancing Performance and Enjoyment during the Holidays
You don’t need to earn food. You don’t need to justify dessert with extra training or restrict later to “balance it out.” Nutrition works best when it’s consistent, flexible, and enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
This chocolate macaroon recipe has become a Christmas staple of mine for a reason. It’s easy, satisfying, and supportive of an athlete's lifestyle, without being overly complicated or restrictive. Whether you’re deep into marathon training, lifting through the winter, or simply staying active during the holidays, this recipe offers a way to enjoy something sweet while still honouring your body’s needs. Performance isn’t just built in the gym or on the road, it’s built in the kitchen, too.
If you’re unsure how to balance treats like this with your training, working with a sports nutrition coach can help! Join the Athlete Performance Program and learn how to fuel for performance and enjoyment.