Macarons (French) Recipe – Classic, Delicate & Perfect
Macarons are delicate, airy, and delightfully chewy sandwich cookies that are a staple in French patisseries. This Macarons (French) Recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating these elegant treats at home. Made from almond flour, egg whites, and sugar, macarons have a crisp outer shell with a soft, chewy interior and a rich filling. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced baker, this guide will help you achieve perfectly smooth and beautifully risen macarons.
Macarons come in a variety of flavors and fillings, making them perfect for any occasion. With patience and precision, you can create bakery-quality macarons that will impress your friends and family.
Nutrition & Instructions
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Active Time: 25 minutes
- Resting Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Cuisine: French
- Course: Dessert
- Servings: 20 macarons
- Calories per Serving: ~90 kcal
Equipment
- Kitchen scale
- Mixing bowls
- Sifter
- Electric mixer
- Silicone spatula
- Piping bags with a round tip (½ inch)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells:
- 100g almond flour
- 100g powdered sugar
- 100g granulated sugar
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- ¼ tsp cream of tartar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Gel food coloring (optional)
For the Filling (Buttercream):
- 100g unsalted butter (softened)
- 200g powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together into a mixing bowl to remove any lumps. Repeat the sifting process at least twice for a smooth consistency.
Step 2: Make the Meringue
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add the cream of tartar, then gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat. Increase the speed and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. Add the vanilla extract and a few drops of food coloring if desired.
Step 3: Macaronage (Folding the Batter)
Gently fold the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture into the meringue using a silicone spatula. Fold in circular motions, scraping the sides of the bowl, until the batter flows like lava. It should form ribbons that slowly dissolve back into the batter when lifted.
Step 4: Pipe the Macarons
Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Tap the baking sheet firmly on the counter a few times to release air bubbles.
Step 5: Resting Time
Let the piped macarons rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until they form a dry skin on the surface. This step is crucial for achieving the characteristic “feet.”
Step 6: Bake the Macarons
Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 12-15 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through. The macarons should be firm with a slightly crisp shell. Let them cool completely before filling.
Step 7: Prepare the Filling
Beat the softened butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually and beat until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract and heavy cream until light and fluffy.
Step 8: Assemble the Macarons
Pair similar-sized macaron shells together. Pipe a small amount of filling onto one shell and gently press the other on top. Refrigerate the macarons for at least 24 hours for the best texture and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Macarons
- Use a Kitchen Scale – Precision is key when measuring ingredients.
- Sift the Dry Ingredients – Ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Avoid Overmixing – The batter should flow like lava but not be runny.
- Rest Before Baking – Allowing the shells to dry helps them develop the classic “feet.”
- Rotate the Baking Sheet – Ensures even baking and prevents browning.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Macarons – Add 10g of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Lemon Macarons – Add lemon zest to the filling and a few drops of lemon extract.
- Raspberry Macarons – Fill with raspberry jam or flavored buttercream.
Conclusion
This Macarons (French) Recipe gives you a detailed guide to achieving bakery-quality macarons at home. With patience and practice, you can master these delicate French treats and experiment with endless flavor variations. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful personal indulgence, homemade macarons are a rewarding and impressive dessert choice!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.