Peppermint Macarons

Introduction
Crispy on the outside and luxuriously chewy on the inside, Peppermint Macarons are the ultimate holiday treat. Their delicate shells and refreshing peppermint buttercream create a flavor combination that feels festive yet elegant. This recipe captures the perfect balance of texture and taste, making it ideal for gift-giving or cozy afternoons with tea. You’ll learn how to achieve flawless macarons with a smooth, glossy shell and a creamy, minty filling that melts in your mouth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore these Peppermint Macarons for their contrasting textures: crisp, delicate shells paired with a soft, luscious peppermint filling. The cooling flavor of peppermint adds a refreshing twist to a classic French treat, making them perfect for holiday celebrations or special occasions. They are visually stunning with their soft pastel tones and vibrant, minty scent, which will impress guests and family alike. Despite their sophisticated appearance, this recipe simplifies the process, breaking down each step so even first-time bakers can create macarons with professional-level results. Whether enjoyed with hot cocoa, coffee, or as part of a dessert platter, these macarons are irresistible and elegant.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (100 g) almond flour, finely ground

• 1 ¾ cups (200 g) powdered sugar

• 3 large egg whites, room temperature

• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar

• ½ tsp peppermint extract

• A few drops of red or green gel food coloring (optional)

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar for buttercream

• 1–2 tbsp heavy cream or milk for buttercream

• Pinch of salt

Pro Tips

1. Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting almond flour and powdered sugar ensures smooth shells without lumps.

2. Perfect Meringue: Beat egg whites to stiff peaks and gradually add granulated sugar for a stable meringue. This is crucial for glossy, crack-free macarons.

3. Macaronage Technique: Fold dry ingredients into meringue carefully. Stop folding once the batter flows like lava — overmixing can cause flat, hollow shells.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Baking Sheets
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Ensure surfaces are flat to avoid uneven baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift almond flour and powdered sugar into a bowl. Mix gently to remove any lumps.

Step 3: Make Meringue
In a clean, dry bowl, whisk egg whites to soft peaks. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to whisk until stiff peaks form. Add peppermint extract and fold in carefully.

Step 4: Combine Batter
Gently fold dry ingredients into meringue using a spatula. Use the macaronage technique: fold until batter flows in thick ribbons but not too runny. Add food coloring if desired.

Step 5: Pipe Macarons
Transfer batter to a piping bag with a round tip. Pipe 1–inch rounds onto prepared sheets, spacing 1 inch apart. Tap sheets lightly to release air bubbles.

Step 6: Rest Macarons
Let macarons rest at room temperature for 30–60 minutes until a skin forms on top. They should not stick to your finger.

Step 7: Bake
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake macarons 15–18 minutes, rotating sheets halfway through. Allow them to cool completely before removing.

Step 8: Make Buttercream
Beat softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, and peppermint extract. Add cream or milk to achieve desired consistency.

Step 9: Assemble
Pair shells by size. Pipe buttercream onto one shell and sandwich with the other. Press lightly to spread filling evenly.

Step 10: Rest Before Serving
For best flavor and texture, refrigerate macarons for 24 hours before serving. Bring to room temperature before enjoying.

Variations

1. Chocolate Peppermint Macarons: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to dry ingredients and pair with chocolate ganache filling.

2. Vegan Peppermint Macarons: Substitute aquafaba for egg whites and use dairy-free butter for the filling.

3. Festive Colors: Use red and green food coloring for a Christmas-themed batch.

Storage/Serving

Store Peppermint Macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. They also freeze well for up to 1 month. Serve chilled or at room temperature with hot chocolate, tea, or coffee. Macarons make an elegant dessert for holiday gatherings, party favors, or homemade gifts.

FAQs

Q1: Why did my macarons crack?
Cracks often occur when the batter is under-mixed or when the oven temperature is too high. Ensure proper macaronage and bake at 300°F (150°C).

Q2: How do I get smooth shells?
Sifting dry ingredients and tapping the trays to release air bubbles ensures smooth, glossy shells.

Q3: Can I make the buttercream ahead of time?
Yes, peppermint buttercream can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Rewhip before using.

Q4: How do I prevent macarons from sticking?
Allow shells to form a skin before baking and use parchment or silicone mats. Do not skip resting.

Q5: Can I use other flavors instead of peppermint?
Absolutely! Almond, chocolate, or raspberry extracts work beautifully in this recipe.

Conclusion

This Peppermint Macarons recipe is a festive delight — delicate, colorful, and bursting with refreshing mint flavor. It’s the kind of treat that elevates holiday gatherings, makes wonderful gifts, and impresses friends with your baking skills. Enjoy the perfect balance of crisp shells and creamy peppermint filling for a memorable, elegant dessert.