Perfect Macarons with Vanilla Buttercream

“Learn how to make perfect macarons with this step-by-step recipe! Our foolproof macaron recipe guides you through creating light, airy macaron shells with a delicious vanilla buttercream filling. From tips on whipping egg whites to achieving that smooth, iconic macaron texture, this guide covers everything you need to make French macarons like a pro. With common ingredients like almond flour, powdered sugar, and a touch of food coloring, these classic French cookies are easy to customize with flavors like strawberry or chocolate. Great for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this recipe ensures bakery-quality macarons at home. Perfect for parties, gifts, or any sweet occasion!”

Ingredients

For Macarons:

• 3/4 cup (90g) almond flour
• 1 cup (125g) powdered sugar
• 2 egg whites, room temperature
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp strawberry essence
• 1-2 drops gel food coloring (optional)

For Vanilla Buttercream:

• 1 stick (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (190g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla essence
• 1 tbsp milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a food processor, pulse the almond flour and powdered sugar together 5-6 times to combine. Transfer to a medium bowl.
2. Whip the Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, add the egg whites and salt. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while mixing on high speed. Continue whipping until the mixture reaches soft peaks.
3. Add Flavor and Color: Add strawberry essence and food coloring to the egg whites. Continue to whip until stiff peaks form.
4. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold half of the whipped egg whites into the almond flour mixture until just combined. Add the remaining egg whites and continue folding until the batter reaches a consistency where you can form a figure 8 without the mixture breaking.
5. Pipe and Rest the Macarons: Transfer the macaron batter to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. Pipe 1-inch rounds onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Tap the baking sheet on the counter five times to release air bubbles, and allow macarons to rest for 30 minutes until they form a skin and are no longer sticky to the touch.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Bake the macarons for 15 minutes, then allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before filling.

For the Vanilla Buttercream:

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed for about 5 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Add vanilla essence and milk, and beat the buttercream until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Macarons:

1. Pipe a tablespoon of buttercream onto one macaron shell, then top with a second shell, gently pressing until the filling reaches the edges.
2. Repeat with the remaining macaron shells and buttercream.

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Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better whipping.
• Don’t Overmix: Fold the batter carefully; overmixing can make it too runny.
• Resting Time: Let the macarons sit for at least 30 minutes to form a skin before baking for smoother tops.

Variations and Substitutions

• Flavors: Swap strawberry essence for other flavors like vanilla, almond, or lemon.
• Colors: Use gel food coloring to create macarons in a variety of shades.
• Fillings: Replace buttercream with ganache, jam, or lemon curd for different fillings.

FAQs

Why are my macarons hollow?
Hollowness can result from overmixing the batter or baking at too high of a temperature. Ensure that you fold gently and bake at the recommended temperature.

Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
Almond flour is essential for the classic texture of macarons. Regular flour won’t yield the same result.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these macarons as a sweet treat with tea or coffee. They’re also perfect as gifts or additions to dessert tables at parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These macarons are delightfully delicate with a crisp shell and soft center, beautifully filled with rich vanilla buttercream. They’re customizable, impressive, and delicious—ideal for any special occasion!