Introduction
Macarons are a classic French pastry that is both tasty and elegant. They are light, airy, and filled with a creamy filling. The light, airy texture is achieved by blending almond flour, sugar, and egg whites to form a meringue-like batter. The traditional flavors are usually chocolate, vanilla, and raspberry, but with the right ingredients and technique, you can make a variety of different flavors. This recipe will show you how to make the classic French vanilla macaron.
Ingredients
To make the vanilla macarons, you will need the following ingredients: 200g almond flour, 200g powdered sugar, 100g granulated sugar, 90g egg whites (at room temperature), 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Instructions
To make the vanilla macarons, start by preheating the oven to 350°F. Then, sift the almond flour and powdered sugar into a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they are frothy. Once frothy, add the granulated sugar and cream of tartar and whisk until the meringue reaches stiff peaks. Gently fold the meringue into the almond flour mixture until everything is well blended. Finally, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and use a piping bag to pipe the batter into 1 inch circles, leaving about 1 inch of space between each one. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool completely before attempting to remove from the baking sheet.
Once cooled, you can pipe a dollop of your favorite filling into the center of each macaron. Common fillings include buttercream, jams, and ganache.
Nutrition
A single vanilla macaron contains about 70 calories, 5g of fat, 8g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. It is a relatively low-calorie snack, but it is high in carbohydrates, so it is best to be enjoyed in moderation.
Serving Suggestions
Vanilla macarons are the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. They are also a great addition to any dessert platter or party spread. For a more decadent treat, try dipping them in melted chocolate and sprinkling with chopped nuts.
Conclusion
Vanilla macarons are a classic French pastry that is both delicious and impressive. With the right ingredients and technique, you can make a batch of delicious macarons in no time. They are perfect for special occasions or an afternoon tea.
