French Macarons are Easier Than You Think!
Macarons are one of those treats that many people choose to buy rather than make themselves because they fear that they’re difficult to make. And I feel like so many recipes and I post I read online just perpetuate that myth! The truth is, making macarons from scratch isn’t as hard as it might seem! I think it’s actually one of the easier recipes to try at home, and frankly, even a “failed” batch of macaron shells taste pretty darn incredible and you can still eat and enjoy them! Try this practically foolproof, easy chocolate macaron recipe for yourself and you’ll see. 😉 If you love macarons, make sure you check out my other easy macaron recipes like my Lemon Macarons, Cookies and Cream Macarons, Pistachio Macarons, and Raspberry Macarons.
Easy Chocolate Macaron Recipe Ingredients
Almond Flour Powdered Sugar Cocoa Powder Egg Whites Granulated Sugar Semisweet Chocolate Chips Heavy Cream
How to Make Chocolate Macarons
Easy Macaron Recipe Tips
Making perfect macarons can be challenging, particularly if it is your first time, but with a little attention to detail, anyone can achieve success on their first try. Don’t believe me? Check out the dozens of comments below. Here are sure important tips for making macarons:
Accurate Measurements: Macarons require precise measurements. Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients like almond flour and powdered sugar accurately for best results. Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together to ensure a smooth and lump-free batter. This step helps remove any clumps and results in a finer texture for the macaron shells. Meringue Consistency: Whip the egg whites to stiff peaks, but be careful not to over-whip. Over-whipping can lead to a dry and crumbly texture. The meringue should be glossy, and when you lift the beaters, it should form stiff peaks that hold their shape. Macaronage Technique: This is the process of folding the dry ingredients into the whipped egg whites. Be gentle and fold just until the batter reaches a “lava-like” consistency. Over-mixing can lead to flat macarons, while under-mixing can result in uneven shapes. Resting Time and Drying: Allow the piped macarons to rest before baking. This forms a thin shell on the surface, which helps create the characteristic feet of macarons during baking. The resting time allows the macarons to develop their structure. Ensure the macarons are completely dry before baking to avoid cracking. Let them sit at room temperature until a skin forms on the surface. This can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on humidity. Temperature Control: Maintain consistent oven temperature throughout the baking process. Sudden temperature changes can cause macarons to crack or develop uneven surfaces. Use an oven thermometer to verify the accuracy of your oven.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t get discouraged if your first batch isn’t flawless. Learn from each attempt, and soon you’ll be making beautiful and delicious macarons.
French Macarons Recipe Filling Ideas
There are so many options for filling chocolate macaron shells beyond just this chocolate ganache recipe that I’m sharing here. Any of the following options would also be delicious!
Salted caramel (be still my caramel lovin’ heart!) Nutella Buttercream frosting (I have a bunch of frosting recipes that would work!) Marshmallow fluff Jam (I’m imagining these chocolate shells with a ring of ganache on the outside and raspberry jam in the middle – YUM)
How long do macarons last?
Do macarons need to be refrigerated?, Can I freeze macarons?
No, you do not need to refrigerate your macarons, but they will last longer and taste fresher if you do. They will be good for about 1 week in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze the assembled macarons for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a few hours before enjoying.
More like this French Macaron Recipe
Simple Chocolate Tart French Fruit Tart Chocolate Andes Mint Cookies Rocky Road Cookies Carmelitas (Chocolate, Caramel, and Coconut)
Raspberry Macarons
Pistachio Macarons
Lemon Curd Macarons Recipe
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