How to Make Coffee Macarons

Coffee macarons are a delightful treat that combines the rich, robust flavor of coffee with the delicate, airy texture of classic French macarons. These little confections are perfect for coffee lovers and macaron enthusiasts alike, offering a sophisticated twist on a beloved dessert.

Creating coffee macarons at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to tailor the intensity of the coffee flavor to your preference. While making macarons can be a bit challenging, this recipe is designed to guide you through each step with ease, making it suitable for bakers with an intermediate skill level. Whether you’re preparing these for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, the effort will be well worth it.

What is a Coffee Macaron?

A macaron is a delicate, meringue-based cookie sandwich that originates from France. It is known for its smooth, crisp shell and chewy interior, often filled with ganache, buttercream, or jam. The macaron’s versatility in flavor and color makes it a popular choice for a wide range of occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations.

A coffee macaron infuses this classic French pastry with the rich, aromatic essence of coffee. This variation typically includes coffee granules in the macaron shells and a coffee-flavored buttercream or ganache filling, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and coffee’s distinctive bitterness.

Historically, macarons have been a staple of French patisseries since their creation in the 16th century, initially introduced by Italian chefs. The modern double-decker macaron as we know it today was popularized in Paris in the early 20th century by the famed patisserie Ladurée. The coffee macaron, with its unique flavor profile, pays homage to the timeless appeal of coffee while maintaining the macaron’s traditional elegance.

How to Make Coffee Macarons

Recipe by Matt Simmons

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

24

servings

Prep time

45

minutes

Cooking time

18

minutes

Calories

90

kcal

These coffee macarons feature a crisp outer shell and a chewy interior, filled with a smooth coffee-flavored buttercream. The perfect blend of sweetness and rich coffee aroma makes these delicate French treats irresistible for any coffee lover.

Ingredients

• Macaron Shells

• 1 cup (120g) almond flour

• 1 3/4 cups (210g) powdered sugar

• 3 large egg whites, at room temperature

• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar

• 1 tsp instant coffee granules

• Coffee Buttercream Filling

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar

• 1 tbsp brewed espresso (cooled)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

• Prepare Macaron Shells:
• Sift almond flour and powdered sugar together.
• In a separate bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy, then gradually add granulated sugar and coffee granules.
• Whisk until stiff peaks form.
• Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue.
• Transfer the batter to a piping bag and pipe onto a lined baking sheet.
• Tap the baking sheet to release air bubbles.
• Let the macarons sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to form a skin.
• Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and bake for 15-18 minutes.
• Allow macarons to cool completely.
• Prepare Coffee Buttercream Filling:
• Beat butter until creamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, espresso, and vanilla extract.
• Beat until smooth and fluffy.
• Assemble Macarons:
• Pair macaron shells of similar size.
• Pipe a small amount of buttercream onto one shell.
• Gently press another shell on top to create a sandwich.
• Repeat with remaining shells.
• Rest Macarons:
• Allow assembled macarons to rest in the refrigerator for 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture.

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Electric Mixer
• Sifter
• Baking Sheets
• Cooling Rack
• Piping Bags and Tips
• Silicone Baking Mats

Notes

• Tips for Achieving Perfect Macarons:
  Room Temperature Egg Whites: Use egg whites at room temperature for better volume when whisking. This helps create a stable meringue.
  Sifting Dry Ingredients: Sift almond flour and powdered sugar thoroughly to ensure a smooth batter and prevent lumps.
  Macaronage Technique: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue until the batter flows like lava. This is crucial for the right texture.
  Piping Consistency: Use a piping bag with a round tip to ensure evenly sized macarons. Hold the bag perpendicular to the baking sheet for uniform circles.
  Resting Time: Allow the piped macarons to rest for 30 minutes before baking. This forms a skin that helps prevent cracking.
  Oven Temperature: Preheat the oven and use an oven thermometer to ensure an accurate temperature. Bake one tray at a time for even heat distribution.
• Troubleshooting Common Issues:
  Cracked Shells: Often caused by not resting the macarons long enough before baking. Ensure a proper skin has formed.
  Hollow Macarons: This can result from overmixing the batter or underbaking. Check for doneness by gently tapping the top; it should feel firm.
  Uneven Macarons: Make sure to pipe with consistent pressure and use templates if needed to achieve uniform sizes.
• Storage Suggestions:
  Refrigeration: Store macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
  Freezing: Macarons can be frozen for up to 1 month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before bringing to room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 90kcal
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Protein: 2g

Conclusion

Making and enjoying coffee macarons is a delightful experience that combines the art of baking with the rich flavors of coffee. The process may require some patience and precision, but the end result is a batch of exquisite treats that are well worth the effort. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and robust coffee flavor, creating a truly indulgent experience.

We encourage you to try this recipe and share your results with friends and family. Your feedback and creations are always welcome! These macarons pair wonderfully with a cup of your favorite coffee, making them an ideal treat for coffee breaks, dessert tables, or special occasions. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and indulge in the joy of homemade coffee macarons.

Frequently Asked Questions about Coffee Macarons

1. Why are my macarons cracked?
   • Cracked macarons can result from not allowing them to rest long enough before baking. Ensure they form a proper skin by resting for at least 30 minutes. Additionally, make sure your oven temperature is accurate.
2. Why are my macarons hollow?
   • Hollow macarons often occur due to overmixing the batter or underbaking. Ensure you fold the ingredients just until the batter flows like lava and bake until the macarons are firm to the touch.
3. Can I use regular coffee instead of instant coffee granules?
   • Instant coffee granules are preferred because they dissolve easily and provide a concentrated coffee flavor. Using regular coffee might not yield the same intensity of flavor and can affect the batter’s consistency.
4. How do I store macarons properly?
   • 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 frozen macarons in the refrigerator before bringing them to room temperature.
5. Can I add different flavors to the buttercream filling?
   • Yes, you can customize the buttercream filling by adding different flavors. For instance, you can add cocoa powder for a mocha flavor or a hint of caramel extract for a caramel coffee twist. Be creative and adjust to your taste preferences.