In reviewing the cookies made by the kitchens of Full Moon Cuisine up until now, a pattern of "start with butter and sugar: keeps popping up. Trying to deliver a delicious cookie that doesn't start with those two feared ingredients was an interesting challenge. In response, the kitchens decided to delve into the delicious world of the macaroon. These cookies could not be any easier to make, or delicious to eat. Here's what you'll need:

- 14 oz sweetened shredded coconut
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 extra-large egg whites (at room temp)
- Pinch of salt
- 4 oz semisweet chocolate

Note: This recipe will make approximately two dozen cookies

To begin, preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. In a large bowl, mix together the coconut, condensed milk, and vanilla. In a separate bowl, use your hand mixer (or stand mixer if you have one, with the whisk attachment) to whip the egg whites and salt together until it forms medium-stiff peaks (here's a great video showing you what you should be looking for http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRXTO8RHgng ). Gently fold the whipped egg whites into your coconut mixture. Please note: folding does NOT involve a hand mixer! Here's another video to illustrate how to properly fold in ingredients, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Yie5V37E1w). Park your mixture in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes, then use a small ice cream scoop to portion out your mix onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, and bake for 25-30 minutes (until they become golden brown).

Once they have cooled, why not turn up the volume a bit? Take 4 oz of semisweet chocolate and melt it (either in the microwave or in a double-boiler), then gently pour over the tops of the cookies for a great finish. Let these set up in the fridge until the chocolate hardens and serve.

Cutting out the butter and sugar can be a great way to make cookies slightly healthier... hey, I said I'd help you make tasty cookies, I never said anything about healthy cookies. The light, sweet taste of the coconut, mixed with the small bit of chocolate will make for a great treat for your diners. In celebration of the warm weather we're experiencing, the kitchen will be staying open late. Care to place an order?

Want to know what this challenge is all about? Check out my journal and feel free to send in recipes for cookies! http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/3096204/