Best 3 French Almond Macarons Recipes

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Are you craving a delightful treat that is both visually appealing and bursting with flavor? If so, look no further than the iconic French almond macaron. These delicate sandwich cookies, known for their colorful shells and creamy centers, are a staple in French patisseries and a favorite among dessert enthusiasts worldwide. With their chewy and slightly crispy texture, the macarons offer a unique taste experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Whether you are a seasoned baker looking to perfect your macaron-making skills or a curious home cook eager to try something new, this article will guide you through the process of creating the ultimate French almond macarons, step by step. So, prepare your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and let's embark on a culinary adventure to create these delectable treats.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

FRENCH ALMOND MACARONS



French Almond Macarons image

These classic French cookies have a crisp exterior and a slightly chewy center. Make all three versions for a festive dessert buffet.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes     Cookie Recipes

Yield Makes about 30

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar
1 1/2 cups (4 ounces) sliced almonds, finely ground, or almond flour
All-purpose flour, for dipping
3 large egg whites
Pinch of salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 recipe Swiss Meringue Buttercream for French Almond Macarons

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Sift confectioners' sugar into a bowl. Whisk in almonds; set aside. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or nonstick baking mats (such as Silpats), and mark circles using a 1 1/2-inch cutter dipped in flour.
  • Put egg whites in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on medium speed until foamy, then beat in salt. Beat in granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon at a time, until medium-soft peaks form. Transfer mixture to a large bowl.
  • Using a rubber spatula, fold half the almond mixture into the egg white mixture until just incorporated. Fold in vanilla and remaining almond mixture until just incorporated. Firmly tap bottom of bowl on counter to eliminate air pockets.
  • Transfer mixture to a pastry bag fitted with a 1/2-inch plain tip (such as Ateco #806). Pipe mixture into marked circles on prepared baking sheets. Bake, rotating sheets halfway through, until macarons are slightly firm and can be gently lifted off parchment (bottoms will be dry), 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool on sheets 5 minutes. Transfer macarons on parchment to a wire rack; let cool completely.
  • Spread 2 teaspoons buttercream on flat sides of half the macarons, then sandwich with remaining halves, keeping flat sides together. Refrigerate until firm, about 20 minutes, before serving.

SWISS MERINGUE BUTTERCREAM FOR FRENCH ALMOND MACARONS



Swiss Meringue Buttercream for French Almond Macarons image

Use this recipe to make our French Almond Macarons.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes     Cake Recipes     Fillings & Frostings     Buttercream Frosting Recipes

Yield Makes 4 cups

Number Of Ingredients 4

4 large egg whites
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, (3 sticks), softened, cut into tablespoons
2 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Steps:

  • Put egg whites and sugar in the heatproof bowl of an electric mixer set over a pan of simmering water. Whisking constantly, cook until sugar has dissolved and mixture is warm (about 160 degrees).
  • Attach bowl to a mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat egg white mixture on high speed until it forms stiff (but not dry) peaks. Continue beating until fluffy and cooled, about 6 minutes.
  • Switch to the paddle attachment. With mixer on medium-low, add butter several tablespoons at a time, beating well after each addition. (If frosting appears to separate after all butter has been added, beat on medium-high speed until smooth again, 3 to 5 minutes more.) Beat in vanilla. Reduce speed to low; beat 2 minutes to eliminate air bubbles. Stir with a rubber spatula until smooth.

REAL FRENCH ALMOND MACARONS



Real French Almond Macarons image

A sophisticated little cookie that bring a smile to all the almond lovers. *A golfer has one advantage over a fisherman: he does not have to show anything to prove it. * A good thing about telling the truth is that you don't have to remember what you said.

Provided by Francine ---

Categories     Cookies

Time 35m

Number Of Ingredients 8

1-8 oz almond paste
1 c sugar
3 large egg white
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
3 Tbsp flour
1/2 c confectionners'sugar
pinch of salt

Steps:

  • 1. In a mixer bowl break up the almond paste.
  • 2. Combine almond paste sugar egg whites and flavoring in food processor bowl and mix for about one minute. Add remaining ingredients and process for about 60 seconds.
  • 3. Cover baking sheets with brown paper. Drop almond mixture by the tablespoon onto pan. Dampen finger and flatten dough. Let stand for an hour, uncovered.
  • 4. Preheat oven at 300. Enjoy it!
  • 5. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until gold.
  • 6. I never can have enough of these French macaroons.
  • 7. Delicate, soft chewy inside, gold outside. In my opinion there is nothing in the world to substitute these FRENCH MACARONS.

Tips:

  • Mise en Place: Before you start baking, measure and prepare all of your ingredients. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you don't forget anything.
  • Use a Digital Scale: A digital scale is the most accurate way to measure your ingredients. This is especially important for macarons, as the measurements need to be precise.
  • Use Almond Flour: Almond flour is the key ingredient in macarons. Make sure to use finely ground almond flour, as this will help the macarons have a smooth texture.
  • Whip the Egg Whites Properly: The egg whites need to be whipped until they are stiff peaks. This means that when you lift the whisk out of the egg whites, the peaks will stand up straight.
  • Fold the Ingredients Gently: When you are folding the almond flour mixture into the egg whites, do it gently so that you don't deflate the egg whites.
  • Let the Macarons Rest: After you have piped the macarons, let them rest for 30 minutes before baking. This will help them develop a skin, which will prevent them from cracking in the oven.
  • Bake the Macarons at a Low Temperature: Macarons are baked at a low temperature, usually 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps them to bake evenly and prevents them from browning.

Conclusion:

Macarons are a delicious and delicate pastry that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can make perfect macarons at home. With a little practice, you'll be able to impress your friends and family with these beautiful and tasty treats.

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