Perfect Chocolate Macarons Recipe from www.thespruceeats.com
Introduction
Macarons are a classic French pastry that are loved all around the world. They are a delicate cookie that is made up of two almond flour based shells that are filled with a variety of fillings. One of the most popular flavors for macarons is chocolate. In this recipe, we will be showing you how to make the perfect chocolate macarons that are sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
For the macaron shells, you will need: - 1 ¾ cups powdered sugar - 1 cup almond flour - 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder - ¼ teaspoon salt - 3 large egg whites, room temperature - ¼ cup granulated sugar - ½ teaspoon vanilla extract For the chocolate ganache filling, you will need: - 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped - ½ cup heavy cream - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Before you start making the macarons, make sure you have all the ingredients you need. Measure out the powdered sugar, almond flour, cocoa powder, and salt and sift them together into a bowl. This will ensure that your macarons are smooth and free of lumps. Separate the egg whites from the yolks and let them come to room temperature. This will make it easier to whip them to the desired consistency.
Step 2: Make the macaron shells
Preheat your oven to 300°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add in the granulated sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is glossy and holds stiff peaks. Using a spatula, gently fold in the sifted dry ingredients until the mixture is smooth and shiny. Be careful not to overmix the batter or it will become too runny. Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe circles onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about an inch of space between each one. Tap the baking sheets on a flat surface to remove any air bubbles, then let them rest for 15-20 minutes to form a skin on the outside. Bake the macarons for 15-18 minutes, rotating the baking sheets halfway through. The macarons should be firm to the touch and have a smooth exterior. Let them cool completely before removing them from the parchment paper.
Step 3: Make the chocolate ganache filling
While the macarons are cooling, make the chocolate ganache filling. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just starts to simmer. Remove it from the heat and add in the chopped chocolate and butter. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Transfer the ganache to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. It should be thick enough to spread, but not too runny.
Step 4: Assemble the macarons
Once the macarons and filling are both cooled, it's time to assemble them. Pair up the macaron shells so that they are roughly the same size. Spread a small amount of the chocolate ganache onto the flat side of one shell, then sandwich it together with another shell. Repeat the process until all the macarons are filled.
Nutrition
These chocolate macarons are a sweet treat that should be enjoyed in moderation. Each macaron contains approximately 100-120 calories, depending on the size. They also contain about 8 grams of fat and 10 grams of sugar. While they aren't the healthiest dessert option, they are a delicious way to indulge every once in a while. Plus, making them from scratch means you can control the ingredients and know exactly what goes into them.
Conclusion
Making macarons can be a bit of a challenge, but with a little practice, you can master the art of these delicate cookies. This chocolate macaron recipe is a great place to start, and the end result is sure to impress. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, these chocolate macarons are a sweet indulgence that are worth the effort.
