How To Make French Buttercream Macarons

French Buttercream Macarons: Crafting Delicate Delights

Macarons – those enchanting, bite-sized confections that effortlessly merge delicate elegance with bold flavors. But let’s take it a step further, shall we? Enter the world of French Buttercream Macarons, where artistry and taste converge in a symphony of velvety indulgence.

French Buttercream Macarons

Recipe by Cinnamon GrayCuisine: DessertDifficulty: Medium

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Cooking time

18

minutes

Calories

90

kcal

Ingredients

• French Buttercream:

• 3 large egg yolks

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

•  Flavor extracts or additives (optional)
  

• Macarons Shells

• 1 cup almond flour

• 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar

•  3 large egg whites, at room temperature

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• Food coloring (optional)
  

Directions

• Making the Macaron Shells:
• **Prepare Baking Sheets:** Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Have a piping bag fitted with a round tip ready.
• **Sift the Dry Ingredients:** In a bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar. This ensures a smooth macaron shell without any lumps.
• **Whip**: Beat egg whites until stiff peaks, gradually add granulated sugar
•  **Fold**: Gently fold almond mixture into egg whites, add food coloring if desired.
• **Pipe**: Pipe rounds onto sheets, let rest for 20-30 mins
• **Bake**: Preheat oven to 300°F – 150°C, bake for 15-18 mins, cool shells
  
• French Buttercream:
• **Sugar Syrup**: Heat sugar and water to 240°F – 115°C in a saucepan.
• **Whip Yolks**: Whip egg yolks until pale and thick.
• **Combine**: Gradually add sugar syrup to yolks while whipping.
• **Cool and Add Butter**: Whip until cool, then add softened butter gradually.
•  **Flavor**: Mix in vanilla extract and desired flavors.
  
• Assembly:
• **Pair Shells**: Match similar-sized shells for pairs.
• **Pipe Buttercream**: Pipe a dollop of buttercream on one shell in each pair.
• **Sandwich**: Gently press the other shell on top.
•  **Refrigerate**: Store assembled macarons in an airtight container and refrigerate for 24 hours.
• **Serve**: Bring to room temperature before serving.
• **Enjoy**: Indulge in the symphony of flavors and textures that French Buttercream Macarons offer.

Notes

• – A typical filled macaron (with both shells and buttercream) can range from 80 to 100 calories, depending on size and flavor variations.
• – Keep in mind that these are indulgent treats, and the calorie count can be higher if you choose to use larger amounts of buttercream or incorporate additional fillings.

Grab your apron and let’s embark on a journey to create these exquisite treats that could make even the Eiffel Tower jealous.

The Art of Macaron Crafting

Mastering the art of macaron crafting requires more than just a dash of culinary finesse. It’s a ballet of proportions and precision. Imagine measuring out almond flour to the exact gram, ensuring your egg whites reach stiff peaks that rival the Alps, and then gently folding these elements into a harmonious batter. It’s a dance that requires patience and a pinch of courage.

Unveiling French Buttercream

Ah, French Buttercream – the sophisticated cousin of traditional buttercream. Picture this: butter so luscious it practically whispers sweet nothings to your taste buds. This luxurious cream, enriched with egg yolks and sugar, adds an irresistible layer of richness to the macaron experience. Just imagine the satisfaction of that buttery goodness melting delicately as you take that first bite.

Perfecting the Macaron Shell

The macaron shell – a paradox of textures that promises both a delicate crispness and a chewy interior. How is this culinary magic achieved, you ask? The answer lies in the careful folding of almond flour and powdered sugar into beaten egg whites. The batter’s transformation from lumpy chaos to a glossy, lava-like consistency is nothing short of alchemy. And when piped onto parchment paper, these dollops of potential become the foundation of macaron perfection.

Harmonizing Flavors and Fillings

The macaron is a versatile canvas for flavor innovation. Think beyond vanilla and chocolate to explore audacious combinations – lavender and honey, matcha and red bean, raspberry, and rose. But here’s the twist: the filling shouldn’t just complement; it should dance with the shell’s essence. The tang of citrus filling against the sweetness of the shell creates a crescendo of flavors that is nothing short of sensational.

Crafting the Luscious French Buttercream

Creating French Buttercream is akin to composing a symphony. It’s a careful balance of butter, sugar, and a dash of imagination. Vanilla might be the prima donna, but don’t shy away from infusing lavender, cardamom, or even a hint of Earl Grey for that je ne sais quoi. The result? A silky, indulgent filling that’s ready to serenade your taste buds.

Piping Poetry

Channel your inner artist as you wield the piping bag like a paintbrush. Each swirl and flick creates a masterpiece that is uniquely yours. But it’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about consistency. Achieving uniformity in size and shape ensures your macarons will dazzle both the eye and the palate.

The Crucial Resting Period

Patience, dear reader, is rewarded during the resting period. Let your soon-to-be macarons rest, form a delicate skin, and develop that iconic “foot” – the ruffled edge at the base that signifies a well-crafted macaron. This interlude is where anticipation crescendos, promising a delectable experience in every bite.

Assembling a Flavorful Duo

Pairing macaron shells with their buttercream counterparts is an art in itself. It’s about harmony – the nutty shell finding its perfect partner in the creamy filling. But don’t stop there; experiment with texture contrasts that tickle the senses. A crunchy praline nestled within a velvety embrace? Divine.

Aesthetics: The Visual Temptation

We feast with our eyes before our taste buds ever tango. Adorn your macarons with hues that pop and patterns that intrigue. Consider vibrant saffron, dreamy pastels, or even bold jewel tones. Remember, a macaron isn’t just a treat; it’s a work of edible art.

The Pleasure of Pairing

Why settle for a solitary indulgence when you can embark on a flavor adventure? Pairing macarons with beverages isn’t just about finding something to sip; it’s about enhancing the entire experience. Imagine a citrus macaron waltzing with a delicate elderflower tea or a robust espresso partnering with a sumptuous chocolate macaron. It’s a culinary pas de deux.

Gift of Elegance and Taste

Macarons are more than mere sweets; they’re gifts imbued with thoughtfulness and elegance. A box of these dainty delights speaks volumes, whether you’re celebrating an occasion or simply saying “thinking of you.” It’s a gesture that resonates through taste, conveying sentiments without uttering a word.

Troubleshooting with Finesse

Even masterful macaron makers encounter setbacks. But fret not; every challenge is a lesson in disguise. Whether it’s cracked shells or deflated feet, approach each mishap as an opportunity to refine your craft. Embrace the journey, and your macarons will only become more magnificent.

Sharing the Joy

In the realm of baking, joy is multiplied when shared. Gather friends, family, or

colleagues for a macaron-making soirée that’s as enjoyable as it is delicious. The act of creating these delectable treats together fosters camaraderie, laughter, and a sense of accomplishment. As you pipe, fill, and garnish, you’re not just making macarons; you’re creating memories that will be savored long after the last crumb is devoured.

French Buttercream Macarons is a delectable journey through textures, flavors, and creativity. From the delicate dance of the macaron batter to the velvety indulgence of French Buttercream, each step is a celebration of culinary finesse. So, why not embark on this adventure yourself? Armed with knowledge and a hint of audacity, you can transform your kitchen into a macaron-making haven. Just remember, the joy is not just in the result, but in every moment of crafting these edible treasures. Vive la macaron!

Directions: How to Make French Buttercream Macarons

French Buttercream Macarons is a delightful fusion of delicate macaron shells and velvety buttercream that’s sure to impress your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to indulge. Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft your own batch of these exquisite treats.

Ingredients:

For the Macaron Shells:

– 1 cup almond flour

– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar

– 3 large egg whites, at room temperature

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– Food coloring (optional)

For the French Buttercream:

– 3 large egg yolks

– 3/4 cup granulated sugar

– 1/4 cup water

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– Flavor extracts or additives (optional)

Instructions:

Making the Macaron Shells:

1. **Prepare Baking Sheets:** Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Have a piping bag fitted with a round tip ready.

2. **Sift the Dry Ingredients:** In a bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar. This ensures a smooth macaron shell without any lumps.

3. **Whip Egg Whites:** In a separate mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to whip. Whip until glossy and stiff peaks form.

4. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:** Gently fold the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture into the whipped egg whites using a spatula. Be patient and gentle to avoid deflating the mixture.

5. **Add Food Coloring:** If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to achieve your desired shade. Remember that the color will lighten as the macarons bake.

6. **Pipe the Batter:** Transfer the batter to the prepared piping bag. Pipe small rounds onto the prepared baking sheets. Keep consistent sizes for even baking.

7. **Resting Period:** Let the piped macaron shells rest at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This forms a skin on the surface, helping to achieve that iconic “foot” during baking.

8. **Preheat and Bake:** Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for about 15-18 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through. The shells should be set and easily come off the parchment paper.

9. **Cool Completely:** Once baked, allow the macaron shells to cool completely on the baking sheets before gently removing them.

Making the French Buttercream:

1. **Prepare Sugar Syrup:** In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.

2. **Whip Egg Yolks:** While the sugar syrup heats up, whip the egg yolks in a separate mixing bowl until pale and thick.

3. **Add Sugar Syrup:** Gradually pour the hot sugar syrup into the whipped egg yolks in a thin stream, whisking continuously. Be careful to avoid splattering.

4. **Whip Until Cool:** Continue to whip the egg yolk mixture until it’s cool to the touch, and the mixture has thickened.

5. **Incorporate Butter:** Gradually add softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to whip. The mixture may look curdled at first, but it will come together into a creamy buttercream.

6. **Add Flavor:** Mix in vanilla extract and any desired flavor extracts or additives to customize the buttercream’s taste.

**Assembling the French Buttercream Macarons:**

1. **Pairing Shells:** Match up similar-sized macaron shells to create pairs for sandwiching.

2. **Pipe Buttercream:** Transfer the French Buttercream to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe a small dollop of buttercream onto the center of one macaron shell in each pair.

3. **Sandwiching:** Gently press the other macaron shell on top of the buttercream, creating a sandwich. The buttercream should spread to the edges but not overflow.

4. **Storage:** Place the assembled macarons in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to develop.

5. **Serve:** Bring the macarons to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy their flavors and textures.

Creating French Buttercream Macarons is a delightful journey that marries technique with creativity. From crafting the perfect macaron shell to whipping up a velvety buttercream, each step contributes to the symphony of flavors and textures that make these treats truly exceptional. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you savoring every delectable bite.