Learn to make perfect French macarons with this encouraging guide. Discover the essential almond-meringue cookie technique and basic filling ideas.
Author:Amara Louis
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:About 24 macarons
Category:Desserts
Method:Baking
Cuisine:French
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
150g almond flour
150g powdered sugar
110g egg whites (about 3-4 large eggs), aged
150g granulated sugar
150g granulated sugar (for syrup)
50g water
Optional: Food coloring
Instructions
Prepare your ingredients: Ensure almond flour and powdered sugar are sifted together twice. Weigh egg whites precisely.
Make the French meringue: Whisk egg whites until frothy. Gradually add granulated sugar while whisking until stiff, glossy peaks form. Add food coloring if desired.
Macaronage: Gently fold the almond flour mixture into the meringue in two additions. Continue folding until the batter flows like lava and forms a ribbon.
Pipe the shells: Transfer batter to a piping bag with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Tap the trays: Firmly tap the baking sheets on the counter to release air bubbles.
Rest the shells: Let the piped shells sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, or until a skin forms.
Bake: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the macarons have developed ‘feet’ and are firm to the touch.
Cool and fill: Let the shells cool completely on the baking sheets before removing. Fill with your favorite ganache, buttercream, or jam.
Notes
Aging egg whites can help create a more stable meringue.