Aesthetic French Macarons – Elegant Desserts for Any Occasion

Why make this recipe

This recipe offers a delightful opportunity to explore flavors from around the world. It’s simple to prepare and is perfect for any occasion. Making this dish will not only satisfy your hunger but also give you a taste of a different culture right in your kitchen.

How to make French Macarons

Ingredients:

• 150 grams sifted super-fine almond flour (measure after sifting *see notes)
• 180 grams powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 120 grams large egg whites (at room temperature, about 4 large eggs)
• 60 grams granulated sugar
• 4 drops liquid-gel food coloring (or more for a stronger color **see notes)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Vanilla Buttercream Frosting or your choice of filling

Directions:

1. Cut the tip off a large piping bag and fit it with a large plain tip. To prevent leaking, twist the bag just above the tip and push the twisted portion into the tip. Place the piping bag in a tall glass to keep it open and set aside.
2. Sift almond flour into a medium-sized bowl, measuring out 150 grams. Discard any large pieces that do not go through the sieve. Sift 180 grams of powdered sugar into the same bowl and mix gently. Set this mixture aside.
3. Wipe down a large glass or metal bowl with vinegar or lemon juice to ensure it is grease-free. Add in 1/4 teaspoon salt and 120 grams egg whites. Beat the egg whites on medium-high speed with an electric mixer until bubbles form on top, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the 60 grams of granulated sugar to the egg whites while still mixing on medium-high speed. Add the sugar slowly, waiting 20 to 30 seconds between each addition to allow it to fully incorporate.
5. Continue whipping until the meringue is shiny and forms stiff peaks. To check, dip your whisk into the meringue—the tip should not curve over.
6. Add the food coloring and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the meringue, mixing to combine.
7. Gently fold the almond flour mixture into the meringue in three additions. After completely mixed, it’s time for the “macaronage” step.
8. Using a spoon or spatula, mix the batter by running the utensil along the bowl’s side and down through the center to gradually deflate it. Stop when the batter reaches a thick consistency that can pour off in ribbons and draw a figure 8 without breaking.
9. Transfer the macaron batter to the piping bag. Avoid spooning the batter in; tilt the bowl to pour instead.
10. Hold the piping bag straight above your baking sheet and pipe out macaron shells, leaving an inch of space between them. Pipe slightly smaller than desired since they will spread.
11. Bang each baking sheet down on the counter 5 to 10 times to flatten the tops and release air bubbles. If some bubbles remain, pop them with a skewer or toothpick.
12. Let the macarons sit for 30 to 60 minutes until a skin forms on their tops. They are ready when you can touch one without any batter sticking to your finger.
13. Bake the macarons in a preheated oven at 315°F for 12 to 15 minutes. To check if they’re done, gently press one; it should not jiggle, and they should have feet.
14. Cool the macarons completely on the baking sheet before carefully peeling them off the parchment paper. Match similarly sized shells together.
15. Pipe your chosen filling on one shell and sandwich with another. Enjoy your beautifully filled French macarons!

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How to serve French Macarons

Serve these macarons as an elegant dessert for parties, pair them with coffee or tea for a cozy treat, or present them in a beautiful box or dessert platter as a thoughtful homemade gift.

How to store French Macarons

Store leftover macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to one month, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Tips to make French Macarons

Make sure all bowls and utensils are completely grease-free for best results. Use room-temperature egg whites to achieve better volume and stability. Practice the folding technique to reach the ideal batter consistency, and remember that macarons take practice, so don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect.

Variation

Feel free to mix things up! You can add different vegetables, proteins, or even swap out ingredients to make it vegetarian or vegan. Each variation can give you a new taste experience.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

2. What can I substitute for ingredient 3?

You can try using a different type of vegetable or protein based on what you have available.

3. Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, this dish can be frozen. Just make sure to store it in a suitable container to prevent freezer burn.