french macarons recipe
The Best french macarons recipe
They’re also surprisingly versatile. You can make them for holidays, birthdays, or just because you want something light and sweet to brighten up your day. And honestly? They’re not too hard to customize. Swap out the vanilla filling for chocolate or raspberry, or add a sprinkle of sprinkles for a fun twist. Plus, they’re a great way to practice patience—each macaron takes time to bake just right, and that’s something my kids and I enjoy doing together. I’ve also found that they’re a healthier option than you’d think, especially when made with whole-grain flour or almond flour for the shells. They’re light, airy, and packed with flavor, so they’re a guilt-free indulgence. And honestly? They’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just treating yourself to something delicious.
Classic French Macarons with Tomato-Garlic Sauce
A delicate, buttery macaron shell filled with a rich tomato-garlic sauce, perfect for a light yet flavorful dessert. These macarons balance sweetness with savory notes for a unique twist on a classic.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 large egg whites, room temperature
- 2 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp honey
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 325°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. -
2
In a large bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until stiff, glossy peaks form. -
3
Sift almond flour and salt together in a separate bowl. Gently fold half of the almond flour mixture into the egg white mixture to lighten it. Then fold in the remaining almond flour, vanilla, and any remaining salt until fully combined. -
4
Fill a piping bag with the macaron batter and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. -
5
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Immediately turn off the oven and let the macarons cool inside for 1 hour to set. -
6
While macarons rest, prepare the sauce by heating tomato sauce, garlic, olive oil, and oregano in a saucepan over medium heat until garlic is fragrant (about 1 minute). Remove from heat, stir in heavy cream and honey, and let cool. -
7
Once macarons are fully cooled, pipe a small dollop of sauce onto each macaron shell, then place a second shell on top. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Piping bag with a round tip
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic French Macarons with Tomato-Garlic Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About French Macarons with Tomato-Garlic Sauce
1. How long should I let the macaron batter rest before piping?
Rest the macaron batter for about 30 minutes at room temperature before piping. This helps stabilize the batter and ensures even filling when baked. Keep the batter in a shallow dish covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
2. Can I use store-bought meringue for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought meringue if it’s labeled as “for baking” or “stable.” However, homemade meringue often yields smoother, more consistent results. If using store-bought, ensure it’s at room temperature before mixing with the powdered sugar.
3. Why do some macarons crack or collapse after baking?
Cracks or collapsed shells usually happen due to uneven drying or improper aging. Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature (325°F/160°C) and bake for 15–20 minutes until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Let them rest for at least 24 hours before filling to allow the shells to fully dry.
4. What’s the best way to store homemade macarons?
Store macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage (up to 2 weeks), refrigerate them. Avoid freezing, as moisture can cause them to soften or crack. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
