Gingerbread Macarons

Gingerbread macarons are the perfect festive treat that encapsulates the warm, spiced flavors of the holiday season. These delightful, bite-sized cookies combine the classic taste of gingerbread with the elegance of French macarons. With their crispy exterior and chewy center filled with rich buttercream, they make a charming addition to any holiday gathering or dessert table. Whether you’re celebrating with family or gifting to friends, these macarons are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Infused with molasses, cinnamon, and spices, these macarons bring a wonderful taste of the holidays.
• Festive Presentation: The beautiful brown hue and gingerbread sprinkles make for an eye-catching dessert.
• Easy to Make: Follow our simple steps to create these impressive treats even if you’re new to baking.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or cozy family gatherings.
• Chewy and Crispy Texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast between the crunchy shell and soft filling.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your gingerbread macarons, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and help ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Sifter
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Piping bags

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of egg whites for a stable meringue, crucial for macaron success.
• Sifter: Helps combine dry ingredients smoothly, preventing clumps that can affect texture.
• Piping bags: Allow precise control when piping out macarons onto baking sheets for uniformity.

Ingredients

For the Macaron Shells

• 137 grams super fine almond flour (about 1 ½ cups)
• 117 grams confectioners’ sugar (about 1 cup)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 100 grams egg whites (about 3 large egg whites), at room temperature
• 110 grams super fine white sugar (about 1 cup + 2 teaspoons)
• 1-2 teaspoons brown gel food coloring (I used Chefmaster Buckeye Brown)

For the Filling

• 57 grams (2 ounces) white chocolate, melted
• 2 tablespoons gingerbread men sprinkles
• 1/2 cup (114 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cup (210 grams) confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tablespoon (20 grams) fancy molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

How to Make Gingerbread Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. You can trace circles on the underside of the parchment as a guide for uniform macarons.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together:
* super fine almond flour
* confectioners’ sugar
* cinnamon
* ground ginger
* ground cloves

Set aside this mixture for later use.

Step 3: Whip Egg Whites

In a clean mixing bowl, whip egg whites until foamy. Gradually add in super fine white sugar. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form. This process should take about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold in the dry ingredient mixture into the whipped egg whites using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the meringue. Add in your brown gel food coloring at this stage until fully combined.

Step 5: Pipe Macarons

Transfer your macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto your prepared baking sheets. Tap each sheet gently on your countertop to release any air bubbles.

Step 6: Rest Before Baking

Let piped macarons rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until they form a skin on top. This helps them develop their signature feet while baking.

Step 7: Bake Macarons

Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be firm and have risen slightly.

Step 8: Make Buttercream Filling

While cooling, prepare the filling by beating together softened unsalted butter and confectioners’ sugar until creamy. Add fancy molasses and vanilla; mix well until smooth.

Step 9: Assemble Macarons

Once cooled, pair up similar-sized macaron shells. Pipe the molasses buttercream onto one shell and sandwich it with another shell on top. Decorate with gingerbread men sprinkles if desired.

Enjoy your homemade gingerbread macarons as a festive treat that captures all the joy of the holiday season!

How to Serve Gingerbread Macarons

Gingerbread macarons are not only delightful on their own but can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to make your gingerbread macarons shine during the holiday season.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee blend perfectly with the spiced notes of gingerbread macarons.
• Tea: A warm chai or spiced tea complements the aromatic spices in the macarons beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: Pair these sweet treats with a cup of creamy hot chocolate for a cozy experience.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cheesecake Bites: Include mini cheesecake bites for a creamy contrast to the chewy macarons.
• Fruit Tartlets: Fresh fruit tartlets add a refreshing and tangy element that balances the sweetness of the macarons.
• Chocolate Truffles: Indulge in rich chocolate truffles for an added layer of decadence.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Gift Boxes: Package them in decorative boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family.
• Buffet Table: Display them on a festive buffet table alongside other holiday desserts for an eye-catching treat.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Macarons

Making perfect gingerbread macarons takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to help you succeed.

• Boldly sift dry ingredients: Sifting almond flour and confectioners’ sugar helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth batter.
• Boldly whip egg whites properly: Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; this provides structure for your macarons.
• Boldly fold carefully: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg whites to maintain airiness in your batter.
• Boldly let them rest: Allowing the piped batter to rest before baking helps develop a skin, which is crucial for achieving that signature macaron foot.
• Boldly bake at the right temperature: Baking at 300°F (150°C) ensures even cooking without burning, resulting in perfect shells.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Macarons

When serving gingerbread macarons, pairing them with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Consider these delightful options.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and pairs well with the spicy flavors of the macarons.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the macarons or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries offer a tart contrast that brightens each bite of macaron.
4. Spiced Nuts: A bowl of lightly spiced nuts provides crunch and enhances the holiday theme.
5. Coconut Whipped Cream: This light and fluffy topping complements the richness of gingerbread with its tropical flair.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station for guests to dip their macarons, adding an interactive element to dessert time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gingerbread macarons can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your treats turn out perfectly.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Not calibrating your oven can lead to undercooked or overcooked macarons. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures.
• Improper Mixing Technique: Overmixing or undermixing the batter can affect the macaron’s texture. Aim for a smooth, flowing consistency that forms a ribbon when piped.
• Skipping the Aging Process: Using fresh egg whites can result in flat macarons. Allow your egg whites to age for at least 24 hours at room temperature for better stability.
• Not Sifting Ingredients: Failing to sift the almond flour and confectioners’ sugar can lead to lumps in the batter. Sift these dry ingredients together to create a fine mixture.
• Ignoring Humidity Levels: High humidity can prevent proper drying of macarons. Choose a dry day for baking or consider using a dehumidifier in your kitchen.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep macarons fresh and prevent them from absorbing moisture.

Freezing Gingerbread Macarons

• Duration: Freeze for up to three months.
• Container: Place macarons in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Gingerbread Macarons

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for about 5 minutes. This helps restore crispiness.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds. This method is quick but may make them soft.
• Stovetop: Place on a plate over simmering water for gentle warming without direct heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making gingerbread macarons.

What are Gingerbread Macarons?

Gingerbread macarons are delightful French cookies filled with spiced molasses buttercream, combining classic holiday flavors into a unique treat.

How do I achieve the perfect macaron shell?

To achieve perfect shells, focus on accurate measurements, proper mixing technique, and allowing them to rest before baking to form a skin.

Can I customize my Gingerbread Macarons?

Absolutely! You can adjust spices or fillings based on personal preferences or try different colors of food coloring for festive occasions.

Why did my macaron shells crack?

Cracking usually occurs due to uneven heat distribution or insufficient resting time. Ensure even baking and allow your macarons to dry before putting them in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Gingerbread macarons are not only visually stunning but also bring warm holiday flavors that everyone will love. They’re versatile too—feel free to customize with different spices or fillings! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating these delightful treats for any occasion.