Peppermint Macarons

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that will impress your friends and family this holiday season, these Peppermint Macarons are just the thing! These delicate cookies, with their crisp shells and soft peppermint buttercream filling, are not only beautiful but also bursting with festive flavor. I love making them for Christmas gatherings, cozy family nights, or simply as a sweet pick-me-up during the busy weeks leading up to the holidays.

What makes this recipe special? It’s all about the combination of textures and flavors that come together in each bite. Plus, they make perfect gifts when packaged in cute boxes. Trust me; once you try these Peppermint Macarons, they’ll become a beloved staple in your holiday baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and clear instructions, even novice bakers can achieve success!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Get everyone involved! Making macarons is a fun activity that brings the family together.
• Make Ahead: These cookies store beautifully, so you can bake them ahead of time and enjoy them fresh whenever you want.
• Festive Flavor: The refreshing taste of peppermint paired with creamy buttercream is a holiday delight that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delicious Peppermint Macarons! Each one plays an important role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor.

For the Macaron Shells

• 100 grams granulated sugar
• 4 grams egg white powder (optional)
• 100 grams egg whites
• 105 grams almond flour
• 105 grams powdered sugar
• Food coloring (I used 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 recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to personalize your Peppermint Macarons to suit any taste or occasion! Here are some fun variations:

• Switch Up the Flavor: Instead of peppermint extract, experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond for unique flavors.
• Add Colorful Sprinkles: Top your finished macarons with festive sprinkles for a cheerful touch.
• Try Different Fillings: Swap out the peppermint buttercream for chocolate ganache or fruit preserves for a delicious twist.
• Make Mini Macarons: Adjust the size for mini versions—perfect for bite-sized treats during parties!

How to Make Peppermint Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by measuring out all your ingredients. This step is crucial because macaron-making requires precise measurements. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean bowl, whip your egg whites until frothy. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to whisk until stiff peaks form. This is essential for creating those lovely airy shells that we all adore!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar. This helps remove any lumps and ensures a smooth batter. Combining these dry ingredients properly contributes to the macaron’s delicate texture.

Step 4: Fold It All Together

Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the dry mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to over-mix; we want to keep some air in there while achieving a flowing consistency.

Step 5: Pipe Your Shells

Transfer your batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto lined baking sheets. This is where you can get creative with designs!

Step 6: Let Them Rest

Allow your piped shells to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This resting period helps form that signature skin on top of your macarons.

Step 7: Bake Those Cookies

Preheat your oven and bake the macarons until they have risen and formed feet (those little ruffled edges). Baking time is key here—too long or too short can affect their texture!

Step 8: Make the Buttercream Filling

While your shells cool, whip together softened butter and confectioners’ sugar until fluffy. Add in peppermint extract and milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Assemble Your Treats

Pair up similar-sized macaron shells and pipe a dollop of buttercream between them. Press gently together to create those lovely sandwiches we all crave!

Step 10: Enjoy!

Allow your assembled Peppermint Macarons to set for at least an hour before indulging. They’re perfect with hot cocoa or coffee—enjoy every festive bite!

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Macarons

Making macarons can be a delightful adventure, and with a few pro tips, you can achieve those perfectly delicate treats!

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precise measurements are crucial in baking. Using a kitchen scale ensures that your almond flour and sugar ratios are spot on for the best texture.
• Use Room Temperature Egg Whites: Allowing egg whites to come to room temperature helps them whip up to a greater volume, creating that lovely meringue structure essential for macarons.
• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting your almond flour and powdered sugar together eliminates lumps, leading to a smoother batter and a more refined macaron shell.
• Pipe with Precision: When piping your macarons, try to keep an even pressure and maintain a consistent distance from the baking sheet. This will help you achieve uniform shapes that bake evenly.
• Rest Before Baking: Letting your piped macarons sit for 30-60 minutes before baking allows a skin to form on the surface. This step is key in preventing cracks during baking and gives you that signature smooth top.

How to Serve Peppermint Macarons

Serving peppermint macarons is all about presentation! These festive cookies can shine on their own or as part of an elegant dessert platter. Here are some ideas to make your macaron display truly special.

Garnishes

• Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top of the macarons right before serving for an extra festive touch.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate adds both flavor and visual appeal, making these treats even more indulgent.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint next to each macaron not only looks beautiful but also enhances the peppermint flavor.

Side Dishes

• Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of dairy-free hot chocolate complements peppermint macarons beautifully, creating a cozy holiday treat.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the macarons and adds a burst of color to your table.
• Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai tea pair wonderfully with peppermint, making it an ideal beverage choice for this dessert.
• Cheese Platter: Include some vegan cheese options on a platter alongside your macarons for an unexpected yet delightful contrast in flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your peppermint macarons will not only taste divine but also look stunning at your holiday gatherings! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These peppermint macarons are not just a delight to make; they’re also perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season. You can whip up a batch ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your festive treats fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the macarons to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them in a sealed container, where they’ll last for about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, layer the macarons between parchment paper in an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their delightful texture.
• When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Macarons are best enjoyed at room temperature, so avoid reheating them in an oven or microwave.
• If they’ve been refrigerated, simply leave them out for about 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about peppermint macarons that might help you as you bake!

How do I know when my Peppermint Macarons are done?

The best way to check if your macarons are done is by gently touching the top. If it feels firm and doesn’t stick to your finger, they’re ready! Additionally, they should have a smooth shell and lift easily from the baking sheet.

Can I use different flavors with Peppermint Macarons?

Absolutely! While peppermint is perfect for the holidays, you can experiment with other flavors such as vanilla or chocolate. Just swap out the peppermint extract for your chosen flavoring while keeping the rest of the recipe intact.

What should I do if my Peppermint Macarons crack?

Cracking can occur due to overmixing or not resting the shells long enough before baking. Ensure that you fold your batter gently and allow your piped macarons to sit until they form a skin (about 30-60 minutes) before baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these peppermint macarons! They encapsulate the warmth and spirit of the holiday season with every delightful bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them at home, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and sweet aromas!