French Buttercream Macarons | Smooth, Rich & Bakery-Style
If you’re craving something sweet, delicate, and absolutely elegant, these French Buttercream Macarons are the perfect choice! With their crisp shells, chewy centers, and rich, silky buttercream filling, these colourful cookies are a true delight for any occasion. Whether it’s for a celebration, gift box, or just a cozy afternoon treat, you’ll love every bite of this bakery quality dessert made right at home!
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: About 20 macarons
Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¾ cup almond flour
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Food coloring (optional)
For the French Buttercream Filling:
- 3 large egg yolks
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar. Set aside.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and salt until foamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Add food colouring if desired.
Step 3: Fold and Pipe
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the whipped egg whites using a spatula until smooth and shiny. The batter should flow like lava when lifted. Transfer it to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
Pipe small circles (about 1.5 inches wide) onto parchment lined baking sheets. Tap the trays on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Step 4: Rest and Bake
Let the macarons rest at room temperature for 30–40 minutes, or until a thin “skin” forms on top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 12–15 minutes. Allow them to cool completely before filling.
Step 5: Make the French Buttercream
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water, heating until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.
Meanwhile, whisk the egg yolks on medium speed. Slowly pour the hot syrup into the yolks while mixing constantly. Continue beating until the mixture cools slightly.
Add butter, one piece at a time, until smooth and creamy. Mix in vanilla extract and salt.
Step 6: Assemble the Macarons
Pipe the buttercream onto half of the shells and gently sandwich them with the remaining halves.
Tips & Variations
- Perfect Texture: Let macarons mature in the fridge for 24 hours before serving it enhances flavour and texture.
- Flavor Ideas: Try chocolate, raspberry, or coffee buttercream for fun variations.
- Storage Tip: Keep macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Colorful Twist: Use gel food coloring for vibrant pastel shades that won’t affect batter texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these French Buttercream Macarons with tea, coffee, or as part of a dessert platter. They also make stunning party favours or gifts elegant, delicious, and sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts (Per Macaron)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Sugar | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
Final Thoughts
These French Buttercream Macarons are a little piece of Paris right in your kitchen. With their rich flavour and delicate texture, they’re the perfect treat for any sweet moment. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavours and colours your guests will love them!
