Delightful Macarons Recipe

Ingredients

• 120g (1 cup) almond flour
• 200g (2 cups) powdered sugar
• 100g (3 large) egg whites, at room temperature
• 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
• Pinch of cream of tartar
• 2-3 drops gel food coloring (optional)
• Filling options:
• Chocolate Ganache: 120g (1 cup) heavy cream, 200g (7 oz) semi-sweet chocolate
• Strawberry Buttercream: 115g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened; 240g (2 cups) powdered sugar; 40g (3 tbsp) strawberry puree

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
• Sifter
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Spatula
• Piping Bag with Round Tip
• Baking Sheets
• Parchment Paper
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Digital Scale
• Cooling Rack

Cooking Time

Total estimated time: 2 hours

Recipe: Classic French Macarons

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar, ensuring there are no lumps. Repeat the sifting process twice for a smoother macaron batter, which will help achieve even shells.

Step 2: Beat the Egg Whites

In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, or using a hand mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add the cream of tartar and continue to whisk while gradually adding the granulated sugar. Increase to high speed and whip until stiff peaks form. If desired, add the food coloring and mix until incorporated.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Gently fold the dry mixture into the whipped egg whites using a spatula. Use a ‘j-fold’ method until the batter flows slowly like lava and a ribbon forms as it falls from the spatula.

Step 4: Piping the Macarons

Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Pipe small, even circles of batter, about 3 cm (1.25 inches) in diameter, onto the prepared baking sheets. Tap the sheets on the counter to release air bubbles.

Step 5: Rest The Macarons

Allow the piped macarons to rest on the counter for 30-60 minutes, or until they develop a slight skin. They should not stick to your fingers when lightly touched.

Step 6: Baking

Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Bake the macarons for 15-18 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through. The macarons are done when they come off the parchment paper without sticking. Let them cool completely on the baking sheets before filling.

Step 7: Prepare the Filling

For Chocolate Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, stir until smooth and allow it to cool until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 cup almond flour
• 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Food coloring (optional)
• Buttercream or jam for filling

or a minute. Stir until smooth, then let it cool to a spreadable consistency.

For Strawberry Buttercream:

Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and strawberry puree, beating until smooth and fluffy.

Step 8: Assemble the Macarons

Pair the macaron shells by size, then pipe or spoon your chosen filling onto the flat side of one shell. Gently press the second shell on top to create a sandwich.

Conclusion

Crafting macarons is an art that requires precision and patience. But with this comprehensive guide, you are prepared to embrace the delightful challenge—and reward—of these alluring confections. Whether you’re crafting them for a celebration, a gift, or simply to treat yourself, these classic macarons are sure to delight. Enjoy each bite of the crisp shell and luscious filling, and share this little piece of French elegance with those you love.