Peppermint Macarons

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly captures the spirit of the holiday season, you’ve come to the right place! Peppermint macarons are not just stunning to look at; they’re also a joy to eat. The combination of the delicate meringue shells and the creamy peppermint buttercream filling makes these cookies an absolute favorite in my home. They add a festive touch to any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family night or a bustling holiday party.

These macarons are surprisingly easy to make, and they’ll impress everyone at your next get-together. Plus, they’re a fun baking project to tackle with friends or family. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making these scrumptious peppermint macarons together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Festive Flavor: The refreshing taste of peppermint brings holiday cheer with every bite.
• Make Ahead: These macarons can be prepared in advance, saving you time during busy holiday weeks.
• Impressive Presentation: Their colorful appearance makes them look like they came straight from a fancy bakery!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will love these sweet treats—perfect for sharing!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making peppermint macarons requires just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each component plays its part in creating those lovely little cookies we adore.

For the Macaron Shells

• 100 grams granulated sugar
• 4 grams egg white powder (optional, read notes below)
• 100 grams egg whites
• 105 grams almond flour
• 105 grams powdered sugar
• Food coloring (a bit of red)

For the Peppermint Buttercream

• 1 1/3 cups confectioners’ sugar sifted
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter softened
• 1 tsp peppermint extract (or a bit more, to taste)
• 1/2 -1 tbsp milk, or water (if necessary)

Variations

This peppermint macaron recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to put your own spin on it with these fun variations:

• Change the Flavor: Swap out peppermint for other extracts like vanilla or almond for a different twist.
• Add Sprinkles: Top your buttercream with festive sprinkles for extra flair and color.
• Try Different Food Colors: Use shades of green or even blue for a unique holiday vibe!
• Swap Fillings: Experiment with flavored ganaches or fruit preserves for variety in taste.

How to Make Peppermint Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by measuring out all your ingredients carefully. This step is crucial because precise measurements lead to perfect macarons. If you decide to use egg white powder, it helps stabilize the egg whites and can enhance the texture.

Step 2: Whip Egg Whites

In a clean bowl, whip your egg whites until they form soft peaks. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. This process is key for achieving those airy macaron shells that melt in your mouth!

Step 3: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the almond flour and powdered sugar mixture into the whipped egg whites. Be careful not to deflate the mixture! This folding technique helps keep the airiness while blending everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Pipe Your Macarons

Transfer your macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Give them some space since they will spread slightly as they bake.

Step 5: Bake

Let your piped macarons sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until they form a skin. Then bake them in a preheated oven until they’re firm and have that lovely foot at the bottom!

Step 6: Make Peppermint Buttercream

While your macaron shells cool down, prepare the buttercream by creaming together softened butter and sifted confectioners’ sugar. Add peppermint extract and adjust consistency with milk or water as needed.

Step 7: Assemble

Once cooled, pair similar-sized macaron shells together and pipe on that luscious peppermint buttercream between them. Gently press together until you see the filling peek out!

Step 8: Enjoy!

Let your assembled macarons rest for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before enjoying them. This resting period allows flavors to meld beautifully!

And there you have it—your very own batch of delightful peppermint macarons! Perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself during this magical season!

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Macarons

Creating the perfect peppermint macarons can be a delightful adventure, and with a few handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering these festive treats!

• Use aged egg whites: Letting your egg whites sit in the fridge for a day or two helps them dry out slightly, which leads to better meringue stability.
• Measure accurately: Precision is key in macaron-making. Use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients for the best results.
• Sift your dry ingredients: Sifting almond flour and powdered sugar together eliminates lumps and ensures a smooth batter, which contributes to that signature macaron look.
• Macaronage technique: Gently folding the batter until it flows like lava helps create the perfect consistency. Overmixing can lead to flat macarons, while undermixing can cause them to crack.
• Let them rest: Allowing your piped macarons to rest for 30-60 minutes before baking forms a skin on top, which is crucial for achieving that lovely foot.

How to Serve Peppermint Macarons

These charming peppermint macarons are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes! Present them beautifully to enhance their appeal during holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Garnishes

• Crushed candy canes: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of each macaron for a festive crunch and extra peppermint flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate adds elegance and richness, making each bite even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: Pair your macarons with steaming cups of hot cocoa topped with whipped coconut cream. The warmth complements the coolness of peppermint beautifully.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds and strawberries provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the macarons.
• Gingerbread cookies: These spiced cookies add warmth and nostalgia, creating a delightful dessert platter that celebrates the holiday spirit.
• Peppermint tea: Enhance the minty flavors by serving your macarons alongside soothing peppermint tea. It’s perfect for winding down after a festive meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your homemade peppermint macarons. Enjoy the process and happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These delightful Peppermint Macarons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to get a head start on your holiday baking. They can be made in advance and stored or even frozen, making them an ideal treat for festive gatherings!

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them fresh longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Place the macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat macarons, as they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
• If you prefer a slightly softer texture, leave them out for about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop into your mind about Peppermint Macarons.

Can I make Peppermint Macarons without egg white powder?

Yes! While egg white powder helps stabilize the macarons, you can still make delicious macarons without it. Just ensure your egg whites are at room temperature and whisked well.

How can I customize my Peppermint Macarons?

You can easily customize these macarons by adding different flavors of extracts or food coloring. Try using vanilla or chocolate extract for a twist!

What should I do if my Peppermint Macarons don’t develop feet?

If your macarons don’t have feet, it could be due to overmixing the batter or not letting them rest long enough before baking. Ensure proper technique during mixing and resting times.

How do I know when my Peppermint Macarons are done baking?

Your macarons are ready when they have formed a firm shell and do not stick to your finger when touched lightly. They should also have risen properly with visible feet.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these festive Peppermint Macarons! They’re not just a treat but a joy to create and share during this special season. Whether you’re hosting friends or gifting them as sweet surprises, these cookies will surely bring smiles all around. Happy baking!