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Beautifully arranged colorful French macarons on a decorative plate.

French Macarons

Delicate French macarons that offer a crisp exterior and a chewy center, perfect for any gathering or cozy afternoon.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: French
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Macaron Shell Ingredients
  • 1 cup powdered sugar Adds sweetness and helps create that smooth texture; look for organic versions if preferred.
  • 1/2 cup almond flour Provides a unique nutty flavor; substitute with finely ground sunflower seeds if allergic.
  • 2 large egg whites Ensure they're at room temperature for optimal whipping.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Balances out the sweetness; can use coconut sugar for a more caramel-like flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar Helps stabilize the egg whites; can be replaced with lemon juice.
  • food coloring (optional) Gel colors yield the best results.
Filling Ingredients
  • filling of choice e.g., buttercream, ganache, jam; customize to your heart’s delight.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and almond flour to remove lumps.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until foamy.
  4. Gradually add the granulated sugar and cream of tartar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
  5. If using food coloring, add it now to achieve the desired hue.
  6. Gently fold the almond flour mixture into the egg whites until just combined. The batter should flow like a ribbon from the spatula.
Piping and Baking
  1. Pour the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
  2. Pipe 1-inch circles onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each macaron.
  3. Tap the baking sheet on the counter to release air bubbles. Let them sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until a skin forms.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they have risen and are set. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet.
  5. Once cooled, pair the macarons with their matching halves and fill with your preferred filling. Enjoy!

Notes

Tips: Allow piped macarons to rest for 30-60 minutes before baking for better results. Store macarons in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or freeze them for up to a month.