Peppermint macarons are delightful treats that add a touch of magic to any occasion. With their sweet, crisp shells and creamy peppermint buttercream, these little gems are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family get-togethers. They’re surprisingly simple to make, even if you’re trying macarons for the first time.

Why You Will Love This Peppermint Macarons

These peppermint macarons are special for many reasons. First, they taste amazing with a sweet, refreshing flavor that brings a smile to everyone’s face. They are also easy to make, using everyday ingredients you likely have on hand. Plus, they’re fun to decorate, allowing you to unleash your creativity. Whether for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, they’re a treat the whole family will love.

How to Make Peppermint Macarons

Making macarons does take a little patience, but I promise it’s worth it! You’ll start by mixing your dry ingredients, then whip the egg whites until they’re fluffy. After folding everything together gently, you’ll pipe your batter onto a baking sheet and let them rest. Once baked, sandwich them with a creamy peppermint buttercream. It’s a simple process that delivers delicious results!

What You Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful peppermint macarons:

1 cup almond flour
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
3 large egg whites
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
Pinch of salt
Food coloring (optional)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3-4 cups powdered sugar (for buttercream)
1 teaspoon peppermint extract (for buttercream)

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar.
In a separate bowl, whip egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold in the almond flour mixture and peppermint extract, adding food coloring if desired.
Transfer the batter to a piping bag and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheets.
Let them sit for 30-60 minutes to form a skin.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, then cool completely.
For the buttercream, beat softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar and peppermint extract until smooth.
Pipe the buttercream onto half of the macaron shells and sandwich with the other half.
Let them mature in the fridge for at least 24 hours for best flavor, then enjoy!

How to Serve Peppermint Macarons

These peppermint macarons shine as a sweet treat for various occasions. They make a lovely addition to holiday dessert tables or cozy gatherings. Pair them with hot chocolate or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. They also make great gifts, beautifully packaged in a festive box.

How to Store Peppermint Macarons

To keep your macarons fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for about a week. You can also freeze them. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge.

Recipe Tips

Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature for the best volume.
Sifting the almond flour and powdered sugar is key for smooth shells.
Don’t skip letting the macarons form a skin; it helps them develop their signature texture.
If your macarons crack, try adjusting the oven temperature.
Ensure no grease or residue is present on your baking sheets.

Variations & Swaps

For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the almond flour for chocolate macarons.
Try using different extracts like vanilla or orange for unique flavors.
You can substitute the almond flour with finely ground cashew flour for a nut-free option.

FAQs

Can I make these macarons ahead of time?
Absolutely! Macarons can be made a day or two in advance. They actually taste better after they sit for a bit in the fridge, as the flavors meld together.

Can I freeze macarons?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled macarons. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge for a few hours.

What if I run out of peppermint extract?
You can use vanilla extract or even a little almond extract as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.

How long do the macarons last?
Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week in the fridge. For longer periods, freezing is the best option.

What common mistakes should I avoid?
Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately and fold carefully. Overmixing can lead to flat macarons, while undermixing could make them too thick.