Santa Claus Macarons

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your holiday season, look no further than these Santa Claus Macarons! These charming little cookies not only taste heavenly with their Sugar Cookie Buttercream filling but also bring a smile to everyone’s face with their festive Santa decorations. They’re perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or even just a cozy night in with loved ones.

What I love most about making these Santa Claus Macarons is how they transform any occasion into something special. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and filled with joy. Plus, who can resist the fun of decorating them to look like Santa?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll be whipping up these macarons in no time!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved in decorating; it’s a great way to bond while creating delicious memories.
• Make-Ahead Delight: These treats can be made ahead of time and stored, making holiday prep a breeze.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of almond flour cookies and rich buttercream filling is simply divine.
• Festive Presentation: They look as great as they taste, making them ideal for holiday gift-giving or dessert tables.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Gather them up, and let’s get ready to create some magical Santa Claus Macarons!

For the Macaron Shells

• 100 grams Domino® Golden Sugar
• 4 grams egg white powder (optional, read notes)
• 100 grams egg whites
• 105 grams almond flour
• 105 grams Domino® Powdered Sugar

For the Sugar Cookie Buttercream Filling

• 1 1/2 cups Domino® Powdered Sugar (187 grams)
• 1 tbsp meringue powder
• 4 tbsp water
• 2 drops black gel food coloring
• 1 drop yellow gel food coloring

For the Decoration

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (63 grams)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113 grams)
• 1/4 cup Domino® Golden Sugar (50 grams)
• 1 1/4 cup Domino® Powdered Sugar (156 grams)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/8 tsp almond extract
• 1/2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
• 1/4 cup desiccated coconut (shredded (50 grams))

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on these festive macarons. Here are some fun ideas:

• Change Up the Flavor: Swap vanilla extract for peppermint or other extracts for a unique twist.
• Add Color: Use different gel food coloring to create a variety of festive characters.
• Stuff with Jam: Instead of buttercream filling, try using your favorite fruit jam for a fruity surprise!
• Decorate Differently: Instead of Santa faces, use other Christmas designs like snowmen or reindeer!

How to Make Santa Claus Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by ensuring all your ingredients are measured and ready. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Having everything at hand helps keep things tidy and organized.

Step 2: Make the Macaron Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the egg whites until frothy. Gradually add in your golden sugar while beating until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the almond flour and powdered sugar mixture until you achieve a smooth batter. It’s important not to overmix; you want that perfect macaron texture!

Step 3: Pipe the Macarons

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, pipe small circles onto the parchment. Leave space between each one as they will spread slightly. Tap the sheets gently on the counter to release any air bubbles—this step helps create those lovely feet on your macarons.

Step 4: Bake Them Up

Let your piped macarons sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until they form a skin. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they don’t stick to the parchment anymore!

Step 5: Prepare the Buttercream Filling

While your shells cool, whip together all filling ingredients until fluffy and well combined. Adjust sweetness as needed by adding more powdered sugar if desired.

Step 6: Assemble Your Santa Claus Macarons

Fill half of your macaron shells with buttercream. Carefully top them with another shell to create sandwiches. Then comes the fun part—decorate them! Use royal icing to draw Santa faces on top of each macaron and sprinkle shredded coconut on their hats.

And there you have it—your beautiful Santa Claus Macarons are ready to impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy every bite of this delicious holiday treat!

Pro Tips for Making Santa Claus Macarons

Making macarons can be a delightful challenge, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating perfect festive treats!

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale for measuring your ingredients to ensure the right texture and taste.
• Age Your Egg Whites: Let your egg whites sit in the refrigerator for 24 hours before using them. This helps them whip up to a better consistency, yielding a lighter macaron.
• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting almond flour and powdered sugar removes lumps and helps create that smooth macaron shell. It ensures your mixture combines seamlessly for the best results.
• Macaronage Technique: When folding the dry ingredients into your whipped egg whites, be gentle yet thorough. The batter should flow like lava; over-mixing can lead to flat macarons.
• Rest Before Baking: Allow your piped macaron shells to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before baking. This forms a skin that helps achieve that iconic foot and prevents cracking.

How to Serve Santa Claus Macarons

These Santa Claus Macarons not only taste delicious but also make for an adorable centerpiece during your holiday gatherings. Present them beautifully to impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint add a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the sweetness of the macarons.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar over the top can give your macarons a snowy appearance, perfect for holiday cheer!

Side Dishes

• Hot Cocoa: This classic drink pairs perfectly with sweet treats. The rich chocolate flavor contrasts nicely with the delicate sweetness of the macarons.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of color and flavor. Try mixing seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds, oranges, and berries for a festive touch.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the macarons. Add some crackers or baguette slices for texture.
• Christmas Cookies: Serve alongside other holiday cookies for a delightful dessert spread that will surely please everyone at your gathering.

With these serving suggestions, your Santa Claus Macarons will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any dessert table! Enjoy sharing this festive treat with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

These festive Santa Claus Macarons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat whenever you want. You can prepare them in advance and store them properly for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your macarons in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
• Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• If refrigerated, allow the macarons to come to room temperature before serving.
• For frozen macarons, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Santa Claus Macarons:

Can I use different fillings for my Santa Claus Macarons?

Absolutely! While this recipe features a delicious Sugar Cookie Buttercream, feel free to experiment with other fillings like chocolate ganache or fruit preserves.

How do I achieve the perfect texture for my Santa Claus Macarons?

To get that perfect macaron texture, make sure your egg whites are at room temperature and whip them until stiff peaks form. Proper folding of the almond flour mixture is crucial too!

What should I do if my Santa Claus Macarons don’t have feet?

If your macarons lack those lovely feet, it may be due to under-whipping the egg whites or over-mixing the batter. Ensure you follow the instructions closely for best results!

How long will my Santa Claus Macarons stay fresh?

When stored properly, your macarons will stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 days and in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these charming Santa Claus Macarons! They’re not only visually appealing but also deliciously festive and perfect for sharing during the holiday season. Enjoy making these treats with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to try different flavors and decorations. Happy baking!