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Basic French Macarons

These classic French macarons feature perfectly crisp outer shells with chewy interiors, easily customizable in flavor and colors.
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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: 90
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Macaron Shells
  • 1 cup powdered sugar Use high-quality for best results.
  • 1/2 cup almond flour Use finely ground for texture.
  • 2 large egg whites Fresh eggs provide the best meringue.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar Helps stabilize the egg whites.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Can substitute with other extracts.
  • Food coloring (optional) For coloring your macarons.
Filling
  • to taste Buttercream or ganache Use as filling between the macaron shells.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to approximately 300°F (150°C).
  2. In a bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and almond flour.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy and add cream of tartar. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
  4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue mixture until fully incorporated.
  5. If using, add food coloring and gently mix.
  6. Transfer the batter to a piping bag and pipe small circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Let the piped macarons rest for about 30 minutes until a skin forms on top.
Baking
  1. Bake the macarons for 15 to 20 minutes until firm to the touch.
Finishing
  1. Allow the shells to cool completely before filling with buttercream or ganache.
  2. Sandwich the shells together and enjoy!

Notes

Store macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze for about a month. Let freeze before consuming for optimal texture.