Gingerbread Macarons

If you’re looking for a treat that captures the essence of the holiday season, look no further than these delightful Gingerbread Macarons. They marry the classic flavors of gingerbread cookies with the delicate texture of macarons, making them a festive addition to any dessert table. I love making these for family gatherings and celebrations; they always bring smiles and warm hearts. Plus, they are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to indulge in something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

These little delights are not only scrumptious but also a fun baking project! If you’ve never made macarons before, don’t worry; with a bit of patience, you’ll impress everyone with your baking skills.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavors: These macarons are filled with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, which evoke feelings of holiday cheer.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can create these elegant treats. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is manageable.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love these sweet bites. They’re perfect for sharing during family gatherings or cozy nights in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the shells ahead of time and fill them just before serving. This makes them great for holiday parties!
• Beautiful Presentation: The stunning appearance of these macarons will wow your guests and make any dessert table shine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create your Gingerbread Macarons, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that pack a lot of flavor! Here’s what you’ll gather:

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you want to switch things up or add your own twist, consider these variations:

• Add Different Spices: Substitute nutmeg or allspice for an interesting flavor profile.
• Change the Color: Use different gel food coloring to match any occasion or theme.
• Try Different Fillings: Experiment with flavored buttercreams like maple or caramel for a unique taste.
• Make Them Mini: Create smaller versions for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties.

How to Make Gingerbread Macarons

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the super fine almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cloves. Sifting these ingredients together is essential; it helps remove lumps and ensures a smooth macaron shell. This step makes sure each bite is light and airy!

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In another bowl, whip your room-temperature egg whites until they start to become frothy. Gradually add in the super fine white sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. This process is crucial as it creates the structure needed for your macarons. The shiny meringue will give your cookies that lovely crunchy exterior!

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the whipped egg whites using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want a batter that flows slowly off your spatula but still holds its shape. The consistency is key here—too runny means flat shells; too thick means they won’t spread properly.

Step 4: Pipe Your Shells

Transfer your macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each one as they will spread slightly. Tapping the trays against the counter helps release air bubbles trapped in the batter.

Step 5: Bake

Let your piped shells rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes until they form a skin that’s dry to touch. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), then bake for about 15-20 minutes. The shells should lift easily from the parchment when done—this is how you know they’re ready!

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

While your shells cool down, prepare the filling by beating together softened butter and confectioners’ sugar until fluffy. Add melted white chocolate, fancy molasses, and vanilla extract until well combined. This rich filling perfectly complements those spiced shells!

Step 7: Assemble Your Macarons

Once cooled completely, pair up similar-sized macaron shells and pipe a generous dollop of filling on one half before sandwiching with another shell on top. Add sprinkles on top for that festive touch!

Now sit back and enjoy your delicious Gingerbread Macarons—they’re sure to become a cherished holiday tradition!

Pro Tips for Making Gingerbread Macarons

Making macarons can be a delightful adventure, so here are a few tips to help you achieve the perfect batch of gingerbread macarons!

• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting almond flour and confectioners’ sugar together helps eliminate any lumps, ensuring a smooth macaron shell. This step is crucial for achieving that signature macaron texture.
• Age Your Egg Whites: Let your egg whites sit out at room temperature for several hours or overnight. Aging them allows moisture to evaporate, improving their ability to whip up into stiff peaks and creating a lighter macaron.
• Use a Kitchen Scale: Baking is a science, and using precise measurements can make all the difference. Weighing your ingredients ensures consistency in each batch and helps you replicate results every time.
• Pipe with Precision: When piping the macaron batter onto the baking sheet, use a round piping tip and maintain an even pressure. This will help create uniform shells that rise evenly during baking.
• Let Them Rest: After piping your macarons, allow them to rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until they form a skin. This step is essential for achieving that beautiful foot on your macarons.

How to Serve Gingerbread Macarons

Gingerbread macarons are not only delicious but also visually appealing! They make a charming addition to any dessert table or festive gathering. Here are some ideas for presenting these scrumptious treats:

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of fluffy coconut cream on top adds a creamy texture that complements the spices beautifully.
• Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the macarons for a festive touch that brings in an extra crunch and holiday flavor.
• Edible Gold Leaf: For an elegant presentation, add small pieces of edible gold leaf, elevating your macarons to gourmet status.

Side Dishes

• Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa pairs perfectly with these gingerbread macarons, enhancing their cozy flavors while providing a comforting beverage option.
• Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai beautifully complement the ginger and spices in the macarons, making this pairing ideal for an afternoon treat.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the macarons, balancing out sweetness with natural acidity.
• Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside fruits and nuts. The creamy textures create an interesting contrast with the crunchy macaron shells.

Enjoy your gingerbread macarons as you celebrate the warmth of the season with friends and family! These little delights are sure to bring smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

These gingerbread macarons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors without the rush. You can make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment, making them a fantastic addition to your holiday baking!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Ensure that any filling is properly set before storing to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

• Freeze the macarons before filling them for the best texture.
• Place the shells in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, layering parchment paper between each macaron.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If you want to refresh your macarons, let them come to room temperature before serving.
• Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may alter their texture; instead, let them sit out for about 30 minutes.

FAQs

Curious about these delicious gingerbread macarons? Here are some common questions!

Can I use different flavors for my Gingerbread Macarons?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on the warm spices of gingerbread, feel free to experiment with other flavorings like peppermint or vanilla. Just adjust your spices accordingly.

What’s the best way to achieve smooth shells when making Gingerbread Macarons?

To achieve smooth shells, ensure your almond flour is super fine and sift both it and confectioners’ sugar together. Whip your egg whites until they form stiff peaks but are not overbeaten. This will help create that perfect macaron structure.

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

Your macarons should have a firm shell when tapped lightly and should not stick to your finger. The tops should also show no wet batter. Typically, they take about 20 minutes in the oven at 300°F (150°C).

What if my Gingerbread Macarons crack during baking?

Cracking usually happens if there’s too much moisture in the batter or if they were baked at too high a temperature. Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature and that you’re using a consistent oven temperature.

Final Thoughts

Gingerbread macarons are truly a delightful twist on traditional holiday treats! With their rich flavors and charming appearance, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike. I hope you enjoy making these festive delights as much as I do! Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with loved ones!