Lavender macarons are the perfect summer dessert, combining delicate almond shells with a floral buttercream filling. These light, elegant cookies bring a summery twist to any occasion, from tea parties to special celebrations.
Their subtle lavender flavor offers a refreshing taste, making them a sophisticated treat for warm days. This recipe guides you through creating these delightful macarons at home, with tips to ensure success even if you’re new to baking.
See also: Easy Wacky Cake Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Lavender Macarons Recipe
Lavender macarons are a unique dessert that elevates any gathering. The crisp, chewy macaron shells paired with the smooth, floral buttercream create a balance of textures and flavors. They’re naturally gluten-free, thanks to the use of almond flour, and the lavender adds a summery, aromatic touch. Perfect for summer picnics, weddings, or a relaxing afternoon tea, these macarons are sure to impress your guests.
Plus, making macarons at home is rewarding. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a bakery-worthy dessert. This recipe breaks down the process into easy steps, ensuring you get those signature smooth, shiny macaron shells with perfect “feet” (the ruffled edge at the base).
For those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying desserts, consider supporting your wellness journey with supplements like Moringa Actives, which helps with weight management and metabolism, or Collagen Select to promote healthy skin, perfect for glowing at your summer events.
Ingredients
To make approximately 20 lavender macarons (40 shells), you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Almond flour – 100 grams (finely ground)
- Powdered sugar – 100 grams
- Egg whites – 70 grams (about 2 large eggs, aged at room temperature for 24 hours)
- Granulated sugar – 35 grams
- Dried lavender buds – 1 teaspoon (culinary grade)
- Purple food coloring – a few drops (gel-based for best results)
- Unsalted butter – 100 grams (for buttercream)
- Powdered sugar – 200 grams (for buttercream)
- Heavy cream – 1 tablespoon (for buttercream)
- Lavender extract – ½ teaspoon (or infuse buttercream with additional dried lavender)
Tip: Use high-quality, culinary-grade dried lavender buds to ensure a safe, pleasant flavor. Avoid lavender meant for crafts or potpourri.
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
You’ll need the following tools to make lavender macarons:
- Food processor – To grind almond flour and powdered sugar for a smooth texture
- Fine mesh sieve – For sifting dry ingredients
- Stand mixer or hand mixer – For whipping egg whites
- Piping bag with a round tip (about ½ inch) – For shaping macarons
- Baking sheet – For baking the macarons
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – To line the baking sheet
- Digital kitchen scale – For precise measurements
- Mixing bowls – For preparing ingredients
- Spatula – For folding the batter
Using precise tools like a digital kitchen scale is key for macarons, as measurements need to be exact for the best results.
See also: Watergate Salad Cake Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Macaron Shells
Step 1: Sift Dry Ingredients
In a food processor, pulse almond flour and powdered sugar together until fine. Pass the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large mixing bowl. Discard any large bits.
Step 2: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean mixing bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and increase speed to high. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. Add a few drops of purple food coloring and mix until evenly colored.
Step 3: Fold the Batter
Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the egg whites using a spatula. Add dried lavender buds during folding. Continue folding until the batter flows like lava—smooth and slightly runny but not too thin. This is called the macaronage process.
Step 4: Pipe the Shells
Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, pipe 1.5-inch circles, spaced 1 inch apart. Tap the baking sheet firmly on the counter to release air bubbles.
Step 5: Rest the Shells
Let the piped macarons sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes until a skin forms on the surface. They should feel dry to the touch.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 15–18 minutes, until they have smooth, shiny tops and small “feet” at the base. Let cool completely on the baking sheet.
Making the Lavender Buttercream
- Beat the Butter: In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat unsalted butter until creamy.
- Add Sugar and Cream: Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Infuse with Lavender: Add lavender extract or steep 1 teaspoon of dried lavender buds in the heavy cream for 10 minutes before adding. Strain if using buds. Mix until well combined.
Assembling the Macarons
- Pair the Shells: Match macaron shells by size. Place them in pairs on a clean surface.
- Pipe the Filling: Transfer the lavender buttercream to a piping bag with a round tip. Pipe a small amount of buttercream onto the flat side of one shell in each pair.
- Sandwich and Chill: Gently press the second shell onto the buttercream to form a sandwich. Place the assembled macarons in an airtight container and refrigerate for 24 hours to let the flavors meld.
Tips for Perfect Macarons
- Measure Precisely: Use a digital kitchen scale for accurate measurements. Even small variations can affect the results.
- Aging Egg Whites: Letting egg whites sit at room temperature for 24 hours reduces moisture, helping achieve better meringue.
- Avoid Humidity: Macarons are sensitive to moisture. Bake on a dry day or use a dehumidifier if possible.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step—it helps form the smooth, glossy surface and those iconic “feet.”
- Practice Piping: If you’re new to piping, practice on a piece of parchment paper to get consistent shapes.
For an extra boost of energy while baking, try Cappuccino MCT, a coffee-based supplement that supports metabolism and reduces appetite, keeping you focused during your kitchen adventures.
See also: Double Berry Mascarpone Cobbler Recipe
Nutritional Facts (Per Macaron, Approx.)
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 9g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 5mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. For those watching their calorie intake, Fat Burn Active is a supplement designed to support fat metabolism and help you achieve your figure goals.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
Serve lavender macarons at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. They’re perfect for summer gatherings, paired with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of chilled rosé. For a stunning presentation, arrange them on a tiered dessert stand at your next tea party or bridal shower.
Store macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. To maintain healthy digestion while enjoying these treats, consider Probiosin Plus, a probiotic supplement that supports weight management and gut health.
Variations to Try
- Lemon-Lavender Macarons: Add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the buttercream for a zesty twist.
- White Chocolate Ganache: Replace the buttercream with a white chocolate ganache infused with lavender extract.
- Matcha-Lavender Fusion: Incorporate matcha powder into the shells for a vibrant green color and earthy flavor. Pair with Matcha Extreme tea for a detoxifying complement.
See also: Easy Berry Sheet Pan Shortcake Recipe
Why Lavender Macarons Are Perfect for Summer
Lavender macarons are a quintessential summer dessert because of their light texture and floral notes. The lavender evokes warm, sunny fields, making these cookies a refreshing choice for hot days. Their petite size and elegant appearance also make them ideal for outdoor events, where guests can enjoy a small, flavorful treat without feeling weighed down.
To support your summer wellness goals, try Green Coffee 5K, a natural supplement that aids weight loss without restrictive diets, perfect for staying active during the season.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lavender Macarons
1. Can I make lavender macarons without a food processor?
Yes, you can make lavender macarons without a food processor, but it’s harder to get a smooth texture. Use finely ground almond flour and sift it multiple times with a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps. This ensures your macaron shells are glossy and smooth.
2. Why didn’t my macarons develop “feet” during baking?
If your macarons didn’t form “feet” (the ruffled edge), it could be due to improper resting time, high humidity, or overmixing the batter. Let the piped shells rest for 30–60 minutes until a dry skin forms.
Bake on a dry day or use a dehumidifier, and fold the batter until it flows like lava. A digital kitchen scale helps with precise measurements to avoid issues.
3. Can I substitute lavender extract with dried lavender buds in the buttercream?
Yes, you can use dried lavender buds instead of lavender extract. Steep 1 teaspoon of culinary-grade buds in heavy cream for 10 minutes, strain, and use the infused cream in the buttercream.
This adds a natural floral flavor. For a balanced diet, try Moringa Actives to support metabolism while enjoying treats.
4. How do I store lavender macarons to keep them fresh?
Store lavender macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 1 month and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
5. Can I make lavender macarons ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! Lavender macarons taste even better after 24 hours in the fridge, as the flavors meld. Assemble them a day or two before your event and store in an airtight container. For a summer party, serve at room temperature for the best texture.
See also: No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart Recipe
Conclusion
This lavender macarons recipe is a delightful way to bring a touch of elegance to your summer dessert table. With their crisp shells, creamy filling, and subtle floral flavor, these macarons are sure to be a hit.
Follow the steps carefully, use quality ingredients, and don’t be afraid to practice. Baking macarons is an art, but the results are worth it.
For those looking to enhance their health while enjoying delicious treats, explore supplements like Keto Actives for weight management on a ketogenic diet or NuviaLab Sugar Control to maintain stable blood sugar levels. These can help you feel your best while indulging in your baking creations.
Enjoy your lavender macarons and share them with friends and family at your next summer gathering.
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