Ingredients

Macaron Batter Ingredients

2 cups (200 grams) almond flour
2 cups (200 grams) powdered sugar
a pinch of salt
food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Meringue

Start by ensuring your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry. Whip the egg whites using a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed. When they start to become frothy, add the cream of tartar. Continue beating until you reach soft peaks, then gradually add the granulated sugar.

Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to high and whip until the meringue is glossy and forms stiff peaks. It’s crucial that the meringue is not under or overwhipped to ensure the proper structure of your macarons.

Step 2

Mix the Macaron Batter

In a separate bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar to eliminate any lumps. Then, gently fold in the meringue with a spatula, making sure not to deflate the mixture. The goal is to achieve a smooth and shiny batter that flows in thick ribbons.

If using food coloring, add it during this mixing stage, and be cautious not to overmix or undermix as it can affect the final outcome of your macarons.

Step 3

Pipe the Macarons

Prepare your baking sheets with non-stick mats or parchment paper. Fill a piping bag fitted with a round tip with the macaron batter and pipe small circles, about 1.5 inches wide, leaving space between each macaron.

Tap the baking sheets gently on the counter to release any air bubbles. Allow the piped macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour until they form a skin on the surface.

Step 4

Bake the Macarons

Preheat your oven to 285°F (140°C). When the macarons have formed a skin, place them in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. It’s essential to monitor the temperature carefully as it can greatly affect the macarons’ rise and texture.

Rotate the baking sheets halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. The macarons should have a nice foot and should not be overbaked to avoid dryness.

Step 5

Cool and Fill the Macarons

Once baked, let the macarons cool completely on the baking sheets before gently removing them. Fill them with your choice of filling—ganache, buttercream, or jam—and pair them together to assemble.

For best results, allow the filled macarons to rest in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to enhance their flavor and texture.

Servings

Once your macarons are baked and cooled, it's time to get creative with **presenting** and **serving**! Pair them with a cup of coffee ☕ or tea 🍵 for a delightful afternoon treat. Consider a vibrant **macaron tower** as a stunning centerpiece for any celebration. Feeling adventurous? Fill them with unique flavors like lavender, matcha, or even spicy chocolate! 😍

Don't forget to match the colors of your macarons to your occasion. Pastel shades for a spring picnic 🌸 or bold colors for a festive feast 🎉—the sky's the limit! Serve them on beautiful plates or glass pedestals to showcase your baked masterpieces!

Equipment

Variations

If you're looking to explore **gluten-free** and **vegan** options, we've got you covered! For a gluten-free version, ensure you use almond flour, as it is naturally gluten-free. To make these delightful treats vegan, replace eggs with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas)—whip it until you achieve stiff peaks and follow the same steps!

Give your macarons a twist with flavor extracts like vanilla, almond, or coconut for a tropical vibe. Don't shy away from experimenting!

Faq

  • Why did my macarons crack on top?

    Cracks often occur due to baking at the wrong temperature or under-mixing the batter. Make sure to follow the drying time and keep an eye on your oven's temperature.

  • How do I know if my meringue is ready?

    When your meringue reaches stiff peaks and can hold its shape without drooping, it’s good to go! A quick tip: turn your bowl upside down; if it stays put, you’ve nailed it!

  • What’s the best way to store macarons?

    Store macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for longer shelf life. Just make sure they're well-separated!

  • How can I achieve perfect feet on my macarons?

    Proper macaronage (mixing) and a good resting period before baking will help develop the feet. Don’t skip the drying step!

  • Can I use food coloring in my macarons?

    Absolutely! Use gel food coloring for bold colors. Just remember, a little goes a long way!

  • What if my macarons don’t rise?

    Check your meringue for stiffness, ensure your oven is the right temperature, and avoid mixing the batter too much. All are crucial for the perfect rise!

Nutrition facts

Mastering Perfect Macarons: The Essential Guide
Recipe Yield:12
Calories:Approximately 70-90 calories per macaroon.
Calories (Min - Max):70 - 90
Total Fat:2g
Saturated Fat:0.5g
Protein:2g
Total Carbohydrate:12g
Total Sugars:8g