Name: Strawberry Macarons Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: PT-491615H57M37S
Total time: 1 h 4 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 cups powdered icing sugar; 1 cup almond flour; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 3 large egg whites, room temperature; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1-2 tablespoons strawberry powder (or strawberry jam as an alternative); Powdered pink food coloring, optional; 1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups powdered icing sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons strawberry puree or syrup (jam can be used)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 44 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for delicate pastries, this Strawberry Macarons Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These airy, melt-in-your-mouth treats boast a subtle, fruity strawberry flavor balanced perfectly by a smooth, buttery filling. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, gifting them to a friend, or indulging in a personal treat, these macarons are as impressive as they are delicious. Plus, mastering this recipe will make you feel like a true pastry pro!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A small group of pink strawberry macarons with smooth, slightly shiny tops and ruffled edges are stacked casually, with some resting inside a tilted white bowl that shows its smooth interior. The macarons have a creamy, light pink filling sandwiched between two round shells. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with soft natural light, focusing closely on the delicate texture and gentle colors of the macarons. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Before diving in, know that each ingredient in this Strawberry Macarons Recipe plays a crucial role, from the structure of the macaron shells to the luscious strawberry flavor in the filling. They are simple yet essential building blocks for success.

2 cups powdered icing sugar: Provides sweetness and helps achieve that silky smooth texture in the shells.
1 cup almond flour: The star nutty ingredient that gives macarons their signature chewiness and flavor.
1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the overall flavor profile.
3 large egg whites (room temperature): The foundation for the meringue, adding structure and lightness to the shells.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Stabilizes the meringue while adding just the right amount of sweetness.
1-2 tablespoons strawberry powder*: Infuses the shells with authentic strawberry flavor and a lovely pink hue (or jam as an alternative).
Powdered pink food coloring (optional): To make those macarons irresistibly pretty and vibrant.
1 stick unsalted butter (softened): The velvety base for the creamy strawberry buttercream filling.
1 1/2 cups powdered icing sugar (for filling): Sweetens and lightens the filling to perfection.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm and mellow depth to the buttercream.
1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons strawberry puree or syrup (jam works too): Gives the filling its fresh strawberry kick and luscious texture.

How to Make Strawberry Macarons Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the powdered icing sugar, almond flour, and sea salt in a food processor. Pulse just until everything is finely mixed and smooth – this creates the perfect base for your macaron shells. You really can’t over-mix here because we’re working without any flour, just nuts and sugar blending seamlessly.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

Next, whip your room temperature egg whites using a mixer with a whisk attachment. Beat them on medium speed until they become white and fluffy enough to hold soft peaks. When you lift the whisk, the egg whites should cling lightly like sticky little clouds, not drip off. This step is where the magic begins as it builds the airy structure macarons are known for.

Step 3: Add Granulated Sugar to Meringue

While keeping the mixer running, gradually incorporate the granulated sugar. Continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Your meringue will now shine with firmness and stability, ready to support the batter without collapsing during baking.

Step 4: Incorporate Strawberry Flavor

Gently stir one cup of the meringue mixture with your strawberry powder or jam for that signature fruity touch. Then delicately fold it back into the main egg white mixture to evenly distribute the flavor without deflating your masterpiece batter.

Step 5: Fold In Dry Ingredients

Using a silicone spatula, carefully fold the almond flour mixture into the egg whites in about one cup increments. Be gentle here to maintain air but also aim for a smooth, slightly flowing batter. Overfolding can cause flat macarons, so watch for the batter consistency to resemble molten lava.

Step 6: Pipe and Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Transfer half of your batter into a pastry bag fitted with a 1/2-inch round tip. Pipe 12 evenly spaced walnut-size circles onto parchment-lined sheets, leaving room as they will gently spread. Tap the trays firmly on the counter to pop any air bubbles, which is key to smooth, crack-free shells.

Step 7: Bake Your Macarons

Bake one tray at a time for about 14 minutes. The macarons should be firm to the touch and develop a delicate crust. Consider rotating trays mid-bake to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Shake off parchment sliding them off the hot tray after baking to cool quickly and avoid overbaking.

Step 8: Make the Strawberry Buttercream Filling

While the shells cool, beat your softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and whip until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then mix in vanilla and strawberry puree for a luscious filling bursting with fresh fruit essence.

Step 9: Assemble Your Strawberry Macarons Recipe

Match the shells by size, then pipe a small dollop of buttercream onto one shell and sandwich with its partner. This is the satisfying final step where all your work comes together into dainty treats ready to delight any palate.

How to Serve Strawberry Macarons Recipe

The image shows six pink strawberry macarons, each with two smooth, round shells and a thin layer of creamy filling in the middle. Five macarons are loosely stacked and resting on their sides, appearing soft and slightly shiny. One macaron lies flat near the front. These macarons come out of a white bowl tipped on its side, spilling the macarons onto a white marbled surface. The lighting makes the surface and macarons look bright and clean. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of powdered strawberry powder or edible glitter atop the macarons before serving. A few fresh strawberry slices on the side add beautiful color contrast and enhance the fruity experience.

Side Dishes

Pair these macarons with a light cup of green or white tea to cleanse the palate, or indulge alongside a glass of sparkling rosé for a classy touch. Fresh fruit salad or a simple vanilla crème anglaise can be elegant accompaniments to elevate your dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your strawberry macarons on a tiered cake stand for parties, or place a few in small gift boxes tied with pastel ribbons for charming homemade presents. For a bridal shower or tea party, match the macaron colors to your theme to wow guests with pretty presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Strawberry macarons keep best when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This preserves their delicate texture and strawberry freshness for up to 3 days. Remove them from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to bring them to room temperature.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy your macarons later, freeze assembled sandwiches separated by parchment paper in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight to protect the buttery filling and crispy shells perfectly.

Reheating

Macarons are best enjoyed without reheating, but if slightly chilled, bring them to room temperature naturally. Avoid microwaving, as it can melt the filling and ruin the shell’s delicate texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry powder?

Fresh strawberries add wonderful flavor, but their moisture can affect macaron batter consistency. Using strawberry powder or puree reduces moisture, helping maintain that classic macaron texture.

Why do my macarons crack during baking?

Cracking usually happens if the batter is too dry or the shells didn’t rest enough before baking. Make sure to fold batter to the right consistency and let piped macarons rest until a skin forms on top, usually 30-60 minutes.

What if my macarons don’t develop “feet” or those little ruffled edges?

“Feet” form thanks to proper drying, folding, and oven temperature. Under-whipping or an oven that’s too hot or too cold can prevent feet. Experiment with slightly different bake temps and rest times for best results.

Can I make the filling dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil-based spread, and use powdered sugar as usual. Just be aware it might change the texture slightly, but flavor will stay fantastic.

How long does it take to make Strawberry Macarons Recipe from start to finish?

Expect to spend about one hour and four minutes overall. This includes mixing, resting, baking, and assembling – all worth it for French-inspired elegance at home.

Final Thoughts

If you love delicate sweets with a burst of fruity flavor, this Strawberry Macarons Recipe is your ticket to homemade Parisian magic. With a bit of patience and love, you’ll soon delight friends and family with these stunning, delicious treats. Don’t hesitate, start your macaron journey today and savor every bite!