Red Velvet Macarons

Introduction

Red Velvet Macarons are a stunning and sophisticated twist on the classic French pastry. With their delicate red shells, subtle cocoa flavor, and luscious cream cheese filling, these macarons deliver all the decadence of red velvet cake in an elegant, bite-sized treat.

I first made these for a special occasion and was blown away by how beautifully they turned out. The bright red shells created an eye-catching display, and the combination of the rich, slightly tangy cream cheese filling with the soft, airy macaron shells was simply divine. These macarons are perfect for holidays, weddings, or any time you want to impress your guests with something elegant and unique.

What’s great about these Red Velvet Macarons is that they look and taste more complicated than they actually are to make. With a little practice, you can achieve perfect, delicate shells with the ideal balance of flavors. Whether you’re preparing them for a special event or just treating yourself to a luxurious dessert, these macarons are sure to steal the show!

Perfect for:

• Valentine’s Day
• Weddings and anniversaries
• Holiday dessert tables
• Gifts for loved ones
• Red velvet and macaron enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Macarons

Here’s why these Red Velvet Macarons will win your heart:

• Crisp and Chewy Texture: The delicate almond shells are crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside.
• Cream Cheese Filling: A tangy, rich cream cheese filling provides the perfect complement to the cocoa-flavored shells.
• Visually Stunning: Their vibrant red hue and elegant appearance make these macarons ideal for special occasions.
• Rich Red Velvet Flavor: Subtle cocoa and vanilla in the macaron shells mimic the flavor of classic red velvet cake.
• A Labor of Love: While macarons can be a challenge, the rewarding results are worth the effort!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours (including resting time)
• Preparation Time: 40 minutes
• Baking Time: 15-18 minutes
• Resting Time: 30-60 minutes
• Servings: 20-25 macarons
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120-140 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 14g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

For the Macaron Shells:

• 120g almond flour (finely sifted)
• 200g powdered sugar
• 10g unsweetened cocoa powder
• 100g egg whites (at room temperature)
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 50g granulated sugar
• Red gel food coloring

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese (softened)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)

Ingredient Highlights

• Almond Flour: Provides the signature texture and flavor of macarons. Be sure to use finely sifted almond flour for smooth shells.
• Cocoa Powder: Adds a hint of chocolate to the shells for that authentic red velvet flavor.
• Cream Cheese: The tangy cream cheese is essential for the classic red velvet pairing.
• Red Gel Food Coloring: Creates the vibrant red hue without altering the consistency of the batter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Macaron Shells:

1. Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift the almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder together. Repeat this step 1-2 times to ensure a fine, lump-free mixture. Set aside.
2. Whip the Egg Whites: In a large, clean bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
3. Add Food Coloring: Add a few drops of red gel food coloring to the egg whites and gently mix until the color is uniform.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Fold the dry ingredients into the egg whites in three additions using a spatula. Use a folding and pressing motion to gently combine the batter until it flows like lava. Be careful not to overmix or undermix.
5. Pipe the Macarons: Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe 1-inch circles onto a parchment-lined or silicone-lined baking sheet. Tap the baking sheet firmly on the counter to release any air bubbles.
6. Rest the Macarons: Let the piped macarons rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, or until the tops are dry to the touch. This step is essential for forming the signature macaron “feet.”
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 15-18 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through. The macarons are done when they release easily from the parchment paper. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:

8. Beat the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until thick and spreadable.

Assemble the Macarons:

9. Pair the Shells: Match up macaron shells of similar size.
10. Fill the Macarons: Pipe a small amount of cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one shell. Gently press the matching shell on top to form a sandwich.
11. Mature the Macarons: For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the assembled macarons in an airtight container for 24-48 hours before serving. Bring to room temperature before enjoying.

How to Serve Red Velvet Macarons

Red Velvet Macarons are versatile and elegant, making them perfect for a variety of settings:

• Dessert Table: Add them to a dessert platter for weddings, birthdays, or holidays.
• Gifting: Package them in a decorative box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Tea Party: Serve alongside tea or coffee for an elegant afternoon treat.
• Celebrations: Use them as edible decorations for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries.

Additional Tips for Red Velvet Macarons

• Weigh Ingredients: Accuracy is key when making macarons. Use a kitchen scale to measure all ingredients.
• Room Temperature Egg Whites: Room temperature egg whites whip up better, resulting in a more stable meringue.
• Rest the Batter: Resting the piped macarons ensures the shells develop a smooth surface and signature feet.
• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can cause flat, cracked shells. Mix just until the batter flows in a slow ribbon.
• Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring provides vibrant color without affecting the consistency of the batter.
• Store Properly: Macarons taste better after maturing for 24-48 hours in the fridge, as the flavors meld together.

Recipe Variations for Red Velvet Macarons

Try these variations to switch up your Red Velvet Macarons:

1. White Chocolate Cream Cheese Filling: Add melted white chocolate to the cream cheese filling for a sweeter twist.
2. Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling: Mix in raspberry jam for a fruity flavor.
3. Peppermint Red Velvet Macarons: Add a drop of peppermint extract to the shells or filling for a holiday-inspired treat.
4. Gluten-Free Red Velvet Macarons: All macarons are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
5. Dark Chocolate Ganache Filling: Substitute the cream cheese filling with a rich dark chocolate ganache.
6. Nutty Red Velvet Macarons: Sprinkle crushed pistachios or almonds on the shells before baking for added texture.
7. Marbled Shells: Use a toothpick to swirl white and red batter for a marbled effect.
8. Coconut Cream Cheese Filling: Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
9. Gold-Dusted Macarons: Use edible gold dust to decorate the shells for an elegant presentation.
10. Heart-Shaped Macarons: Pipe the batter into heart shapes for Valentine’s Day.

Freezing and Storage for Red Velvet Macarons

• Freezing: Macaron shells can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Assemble them with the filling after thawing.
• Storage: Store assembled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment for Red Velvet Macarons

• Kitchen Scale: For precise measurements.
• Sifter: To ensure smooth, lump-free shells.
• Electric Mixer: To whip the egg whites.
• Piping Bag and Tip: For evenly shaped shells and neat filling.
• Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
• Oven Thermometer: To ensure accurate baking temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions for Red Velvet Macarons

1. Why do my macarons crack?
   Cracking often occurs if the shells haven’t rested long enough or if the oven temperature is too high.
2. Can I skip the resting step?
   Resting is crucial for forming smooth tops and feet. Skipping this step may result in cracked or misshapen macarons.
3. What’s the best way to color the batter?
   Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without altering the batter’s consistency.
4. Why are my macarons hollow?
   Hollow shells may result from underbaking or overmixing the batter.
5. Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
   No, almond flour is essential for the signature macaron texture.

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Conclusion

Red Velvet Macarons are the ultimate fusion of French elegance and Southern charm. With their vibrant color, rich cocoa flavor, and tangy cream cheese filling, they’re a dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, these macarons are sure to impress!

This recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat, making it perfect for everything from intimate gatherings to celebratory events. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them on your own, these red velvet macarons will add a touch of sophistication and indulgence to any moment.

I’d love to see how your Red Velvet Macarons turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!