Strawberry macaron shells are a delightful treat, perfect for Valentine’s Day or any occasion that calls for a sweet and elegant dessert. These dainty confections feature a soft pink hue and a crisp yet chewy texture, beautifully complemented by a luscious filling. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying macarons for the first time, this recipe will guide you through creating perfect strawberry macarons that will impress your loved ones.
Ingredients
For the macaron shells:
100g almond flour
100g powdered sugar
100g granulated sugar
100g egg whites (room temperature)
¼ tsp cream of tartar
½ tsp strawberry extract (optional)
Pink gel food coloring
For the filling:
150g unsalted butter (softened)
200g powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp strawberry puree
Instructions
Preparing the macaron shells:
Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together. Set aside.
Make the Meringue: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add the cream of tartar and continue whipping. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Add Flavor and Color: Gently fold in strawberry extract and a few drops of pink gel food coloring until fully incorporated.
Macaronage Process: Fold the dry ingredients into the meringue using a spatula. Continue folding until the batter flows like lava and forms ribbons.
Piping the Macarons: Transfer the batter to a piping bag with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Resting Time: Let the piped macarons sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes until a skin forms on top.
Baking: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes. Let them cool completely before filling.
Making the Filling:
Prepare the Buttercream: Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
Add Flavor: Mix in vanilla extract and strawberry puree until well combined.
Assemble the Macarons: Pipe a small amount of buttercream onto one macaron shell and sandwich with another. Decorate with fresh strawberry slices if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Resting Time: 30-60 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
Baking Pro Tips
Use Room Temperature Egg Whites: They whip up better, creating a stable meringue.
Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision is key to successful macarons.
Avoid Overmixing or Undermixing: The batter should flow like lava but still hold its shape.
Rest the Macarons Before Baking: This allows them to develop a smooth top and signature feet.
Use an Oven Thermometer: Macarons are sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
Strawberry macarons are a beautiful and delicious treat that add a touch of elegance to any occasion. With their soft pink shells, sweet strawberry filling, and delicate texture, they make a perfect Valentine’s Day gift or a fancy dessert for any gathering. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful confections with loved ones!