French Macarons
Delicate, airy almond meringue cookies with a crisp shell and chewy interior, sandwiched with a rich ganache or creamy buttercream. These Parisian jewels are a true test of patisserie skill.
🧂 Ingredients
- 150 g Almond flour(Finely ground, sifted to remove any large pieces. Ensure it's not almond meal.)
- 150 g Powdered sugar (icing sugar)(Sifted together with the almond flour.)
- 110 g Egg whites(Aged (separated from yolks 24-48 hours in advance and left uncovered in the refrigerator, then brought to room temperature before use). This is crucial for meringue stability.)
- 150 g Granulated sugar(For the meringue.)
- 1/4 tsp Cream of tartar (optional)(Helps stabilize the egg whites.)
- 1-2 drops Food coloring(Gel or powder food coloring is recommended for best results without adding excess moisture.)
- approx. 150-200 g Ganache or buttercream(For filling. Ensure it's at a pipeable consistency.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dry ingredients: Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together into a large bowl. Sift at least twice, then whisk to combine thoroughly. Discard any large almond pieces that remain in the sieve. This ensures a smooth macaron shell.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Make the meringue (French method): In a clean, dry bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the aged egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add the cream of tartar (if using). Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat. Increase speed to medium-high and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. The meringue should hold its shape and not drip when the whisk is lifted. If using food coloring, add it during the last minute of beating until evenly incorporated.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 3
Macaronage: Add about one-third of the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture to the meringue. Gently fold it in using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the meringue. Continue adding the dry ingredients in two more additions, folding until just combined. The batter should be thick but flow like lava. To test, draw a ribbon of batter from the spatula; it should fall back into the bowl in a continuous, thick ribbon that slowly melts back into itself within about 20-30 seconds. Do not overmix.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Pipe the shells: Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip (about 1cm or 1/2 inch diameter). Pipe small, uniform circles (about 3-4 cm or 1.5 inches) onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Leave about 2-3 cm (1 inch) space between each macaron. Tap the baking sheets firmly on the counter several times to release any air bubbles and help the macarons spread evenly.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 5
Rest the shells: Let the piped macarons rest at room temperature for 45-60 minutes, or until a dry skin forms on the surface. You should be able to gently touch a shell without batter sticking to your finger. This skin is crucial for developing the characteristic 'feet' during baking.
⏱️ 45-60 minutes - 6
Bake the shells: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Bake one sheet at a time on the center rack for 14-16 minutes. The macarons are done when the tops are firm to the touch and the 'feet' (the ruffled edge at the base) have formed and are set. They should not wobble when gently nudged.
⏱️ 14-16 minutes - 7
Cool and mature: Carefully slide the parchment paper or mat onto a wire rack and let the shells cool completely before attempting to remove them. Once cooled, pair up shells of similar size. Pipe or spread your chosen filling onto the flat side of one shell and gently sandwich with another. Place the filled macarons in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. This maturation period allows the flavors to meld and the shells to soften slightly, creating the perfect chewy texture.
⏱️ 10 minutes active + 24 hours resting
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Aging egg whites is critical for a stable meringue. Separate them 24-48 hours in advance and store them covered loosely in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before use.
- ✓Sift almond flour and powdered sugar thoroughly to avoid lumpy shells.
- ✓The 'macaronage' stage is key: don't overmix or undermix the batter. Aim for a lava-like consistency.
- ✓Ensure a dry skin forms before baking; this allows the macarons to rise properly and develop their feet.
- ✓Bake one tray at a time for even heat distribution. Rotate the tray halfway through if your oven has hot spots.
- ✓The 24-hour resting period in the refrigerator after filling is non-negotiable for achieving the signature chewy texture and developed flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Flavor extracts can be added to the meringue or filling.
- Different colors can be achieved with gel or powder food coloring.
- Experiment with various fillings: chocolate ganache, fruit curds, salted caramel, cream cheese frosting, etc.