Description
Macarons are an elegant French treat with crisp exteriors and soft, chewy centers filled with luscious buttercream, jam, or ganache. This beginner-friendly version simplifies the process for home bakers and helps you master the basics with ease and style.
Ingredients
1 cup almond flour (blanched and finely ground)
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
3 large egg whites (aged at room temperature)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Gel food coloring (optional)
1/2 tsp vanilla or almond extract (optional)
Buttercream, ganache, or jam for filling
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients: Combine almond flour and powdered sugar. Sift into a large bowl and discard any lumps.
- Make the meringue: Whip egg whites until foamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue beating to stiff, glossy peaks. Add coloring and extract if using.
- Macaronage: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue until the batter flows like lava and ribbons dissolve after 10 seconds.
- Pipe the shells: Transfer batter into a piping bag and pipe circles onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Tap trays to remove air bubbles.
- Rest the shells: Let the piped batter sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes until a skin forms.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and bake for 12–14 minutes. Cool completely before removing.
- Assemble: Pipe filling onto one shell and sandwich with another. Store in an airtight container to mature for 24 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Resting Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Desserts