Macarons are delicate French pastries known for their crisp outer shell and soft, chewy interior. These almond meringue-based treats come in a variety of flavors and colors, making them perfect for any occasion. Follow this simple recipe to create your own delectable macarons at home.
Macaron Recipe
Macarons are delicate French pastries known for their crisp outer shell and soft, chewy interior. These almond meringue-based treats come in a variety of flavors and colors, making them perfect for any occasion. Follow this simple recipe to create your own delectable macarons at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup 100g almond flour
- 1 3/4 cups 210g powdered sugar
- 3 large egg whites at room temperature
- 1/4 cup 50g granulated sugar
- Food coloring optional
- Filling of your choice e.g., buttercream, ganache, jam
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar to ensure there are no lumps. Set aside.
- In a separate clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites. Increase the speed to high and beat until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
- If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to achieve your desired color, and gently fold it into the meringue mixture.
- Gradually fold the almond flour and powdered sugar mixture into the meringue until fully incorporated and the batter is smooth and shiny. Be careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch (2.5cm) apart.
- Tap the baking sheets gently on the counter to release any air bubbles, then let the macarons sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until a skin forms on the surface.
- Bake the macarons in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through baking, until the macarons are set and have developed feet.
- Remove the macarons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheets before carefully removing them.
- Once cooled, pair up the macaron shells based on size and shape, then fill them with your desired filling.
- Sandwich the filled macarons together gently and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.