Ingredients
Macaron Shells
- 3/4 cup almond flour/meal (72g)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (57g)
- 1/4 cup freeze dried raspberries, pulsed to a fine powder
- 3 large egg whites, room temperature (100g)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
Filling
- 1/4 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar (114g)
- 3 Tablespoons raspberry jam, plus more for filling the macarons
- 1-2 teaspoons heavy cream, as needed
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and to ensure even baking of the macaron shells.
- Sift dry ingredients: Sift the almond flour, powdered sugar, and freeze dried raspberry powder through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl. Repeat this process once more to combine the ingredients thoroughly and remove any large lumps.
- Beat egg whites: In a large bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until frothy, about 1 minute. Gradually add granulated sugar, about 1 tablespoon every 20 seconds, then increase speed to medium-high and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the batter: Gently fold the sifted almond mixture into the beaten egg whites using a spatula until the batter has the consistency of lava, dripping thickly from the spatula in a slow ribbon.
- Pipe the shells: Transfer the batter to a piping bag with a large round tip or a zip-top bag with a corner cut off. Pipe 1 1/2-inch circles onto the prepared baking sheets. Let the piped batter rest for 30-60 minutes until a dry skin forms on top and the surface is no longer sticky to the touch. Longer rest may be required in humid conditions.
- Bake the shells: Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Bake one sheet at a time for 16-18 minutes. Let the shells cool completely on the baking sheet before attempting to remove them to prevent cracking.
- Make raspberry buttercream: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and raspberry jam, mixing well each time. Add heavy cream 1 teaspoon at a time until the buttercream reaches a smooth, pipeable consistency.
- Assemble macarons: Fill a piping bag fitted with a small round tip with the raspberry buttercream. Pipe a border of buttercream around the edges of half the cooled macaron shells. Add 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam in the center and top with another shell to form a sandwich.
Notes
- Use room temperature egg whites for better volume when beating.
- Resting the piped macarons before baking allows a skin to form, which helps achieve the signature smooth shell and feet.
- If your kitchen is humid, let the macarons rest longer before baking.
- Freeze dried raspberry powder adds natural flavor and color without moisture.
- Be patient when folding the batter; overmixing will cause the batter to become too runny, undermining the texture.
- You can store assembled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Bring macarons to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian