How to Make French Macarons - Easy Classic French Macaron Recipe

Introduction:

This video, hosted by Matt Taylor, guides you through making classic French Macarons, a delicate and elegant cookie known for its smooth top, ruffled circumference (called feet), and delicious filling. Despite their reputation for being challenging to make, with careful attention to the recipe and technique, you can create these sophisticated treats at home.

Ingredients:

For the Macaron Shells:

• ¾ cup almond meal or almond flour
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 room temperature egg whites
• ¼ cup fine granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)

For the Buttercream Filling:

• Just shy of 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup softened butter
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon milk

Preparation Steps:

1. Sift the Almond Flour and Powdered Sugar:

   • Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar separately to remove any large pieces.
   • Combine the sifted ingredients in a bowl and whisk together. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Egg Whites:

   • Beat the room temperature egg whites on medium until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add the fine granulated sugar and continue beating.
   • Add vanilla extract and food coloring. Beat until stiff peaks form.

3. Macaronage:

   • Fold in the dry ingredients into the egg white mixture in two batches, using a specific folding technique to preserve air in the mixture.
   • The consistency should be like lava, flowing off the spatula in a thick ribbon.

4. Pipe the Macarons:

   • Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
   • Pipe the batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, following a template for uniformity.
   • Tap the baking sheet to remove air bubbles and let the macarons rest for 20-30 minutes to form a skin.

5. Bake:

   • Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) towards the end of the resting period.
   • Bake the macarons for 15-18 minutes until they've risen and formed feet.

6. Prepare the Buttercream Filling:

   • Combine powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and milk in a bowl.
   • Mix until smooth and transfer to a piping bag.

7. Assemble the Macarons:

   • Once the macaron shells are cool, pipe a dollop of buttercream on one shell and sandwich with another.
   • Store the assembled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator to set for 24 hours before serving.

Conclusion:

Classic French Macarons are a true test of baking skill but are incredibly rewarding to make. With a crispy shell, tender interior, and rich buttercream filling, these cookies are a luxurious treat. Remember, even if they don't turn out perfect on the first try, they will still taste delicious!