French strawberry macarons are small, colorful cookies with a soft filling. They have a crisp shell and a delightful, creamy strawberry center that melts in your mouth!
Making these treats can be a bit tricky, but the smiles on faces when you share them are so worth it. I love serving them at teas or just enjoying one with my coffee. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Almond Flour: This is crucial for the delicate texture of macarons. If you have a nut allergy, you can use sunflower seed flour, but the color may turn green in the baking process.
Egg Whites: Make sure they’re at room temperature for better volume when whipping. If you’re short on eggs, you can use liquid egg whites from a carton, about 3 tablespoons per egg white.
Powdered Sugar: This provides sweetness without the graininess. You can make your own by blending regular sugar until fine if you run out.
Food Coloring: This is optional, of course, but it adds a lovely pop to the macarons! Gel food coloring works well, but be careful not to use too much. You could even skip it for a natural look.
Heavy Cream: For the filling, use heavy whipping cream to get that light and airy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut cream is a great substitute!
How Do I Get Perfect Macaron Shells Every Time?
The secret to great macaron shells lies in the technique. Here’s how to nail it:
- Macaronage Technique: Be gentle when folding the batter. It’s ready when it flows off the spatula like lava and forms a smooth ribbon.
- Resting: Let the piped macaron batter sit until a skin forms on top. This is crucial to developing their unique feet during baking.
- Baking Temperature: Keep an eye on your oven’s temperature. Too hot can lead to cracks, while too cool won’t bake properly. Use an oven thermometer if needed.
- Cooling: Let them cool completely on the tray before lifting them. This helps them firm up and keeps them from breaking.
With these tips and ingredients, you’ll be on your way to making delicious and beautiful French Strawberry Macarons! Enjoy the process, and have fun in the kitchen!
French Strawberry Macarons
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Macaron Shells:
- 110g almond flour (finely ground almonds)
- 200g powdered sugar
- 100g egg whites (about 3 large eggs), at room temperature
- 50g granulated sugar
- Pink food coloring (gel or powder), as needed
- A pinch of salt
For the Strawberry Cream Filling:
- 100g fresh strawberries, sliced thinly
- 120ml heavy cream, chilled
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or 1/2 tsp strawberry extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour of active preparation time, with an additional 30-60 minutes of resting time for the piped shells, and around 15-18 minutes for baking. Plus, you’ll want to refrigerate the assembled macarons for 24 hours before serving to enhance the flavors. Be patient; the wait will be worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Almond Mixture:
Start by sifting the almond flour and powdered sugar together in a large bowl. This removes any lumps and helps aerate the mixture, making your macarons light and airy.
2. Whip the Egg Whites:
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, add the egg whites along with a pinch of salt. Whisk until soft peaks form, then gradually add the granulated sugar. Continue to whisk until the egg whites are stiff and glossy. This is your meringue!
3. Add Food Coloring:
Gently fold in the pink food coloring into the meringue. Make sure to mix evenly until you achieve your desired color.
4. Macaronage:
Carefully fold the sifted almond flour mixture into the meringue in batches. Use a spatula to cut through the mixture and fold it gently. The batter should flow like lava and settle within about 10 seconds when you scoop some out. Be careful not to over-mix or under-mix!
5. Pipe the Shells:
Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small rounds (about 3 cm in diameter) onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Space them about 2 cm apart to allow for spreading.
6. Rest:
Once you’ve piped your shells, gently tap the baking tray on the counter to release any air bubbles. Let them rest at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes until a skin forms on top — the batter shouldn’t stick to your finger when touched lightly.
7. Preheat Oven:
While your shells are resting, preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
8. Bake:
Bake the macarons for 15-18 minutes. Rotate the tray halfway through for even baking. The shells should dry out and form the characteristic ‘feet’.
9. Cool:
After baking, let the macarons cool completely on the tray before carefully removing them.
10. Prepare the Filling:
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and either vanilla or strawberry extract until stiff peaks form. This will be your delicious filling!
11. Assemble the Macarons:
Find pairs of similar-sized shells. On one shell of each pair, pipe or spoon a circle of whipped cream filling. Place a few thinly sliced fresh strawberries on top of the cream. Gently press the other shell on top to create a sandwich.
12. Rest Before Serving:
To develop the flavor and texture, refrigerate the assembled macarons in an airtight container for 24 hours. Bring them to room temperature before serving. Enjoy your delightful French Strawberry Macarons with their beautiful crisp shells and refreshing strawberry filling!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for the Filling?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
What If My Macaron Shells Crack?
Cracking can happen due to several reasons, such as too much humidity, over-whipping the egg whites, or baking at too high a temperature. Make sure to monitor your oven temperature and adjust accordingly, and always ensure your egg whites are at the right consistency.
How Can I Store Leftover Macarons?
Store any leftover macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for later. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I Customize the Flavor of the Filling?
Absolutely! You can add different flavor extracts, like lemon or mint, instead of strawberry extract. You can also fold in fruit purees or flavored mascarpone cheese for a unique twist!
