Stepping into my kitchen during the holiday season feels like entering a whimsical wonderland. This year, I’m excited to share a delightful twist on the classic dessert—a recipe for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons that will dazzle your guests and sweeten your celebrations. These delightful little treats are not only visually stunning but also incredibly fun to make, offering a creative outlet for home chefs who love a challenge. With a quick prep time of just about an hour, they’re a perfect last-minute addition to your holiday dessert table. Plus, their unique combination of almond flour and luscious buttercream filling makes them a crowd-pleaser that even the toughest critics can't resist. Ready to whip up some festive cheer? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why Are These Macarons So Special?
Festive Fun: Celebrate the season with these colorful Christmas Tree Cake Macarons that bring joy to both baking and eating.
Simple Yet Elegant: Impress your friends with an intricate dessert that’s surprisingly easy to whip up in just over an hour.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Their vibrant appearance and sweet buttercream filling are sure to captivate even the pickiest eaters at your holiday gathering.
Interactive Experience: Get everyone involved by decorating together, creating special memories with friends and family.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for any festive occasion, these macarons can easily be customized with your favorite colors and decorations!
Christmas Tree Cake Macaron Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells
• Almond flour – This ingredient gives the macarons their signature texture and nutty flavor.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the shells and helps achieve that perfect, smooth finish.
• Salt – Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Egg whites – Aged at room temperature for 24 hours, they whip up beautifully for a light, airy texture.
• Granulated sugar – Adds stability to the meringue and helps form those lovely stiff peaks.
• Vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, inviting flavor that complements the almond.
• Green gel food coloring – Choose your desired shade to create festive-looking macarons!
For the Buttercream Filling
• Unsalted butter – Softened for easy mixing, it forms the base of your luscious filling.
• Powdered sugar (sifted) – Ensures the buttercream is smooth and sweet; don’t skip sifting!
• Heavy cream – Adds luxurious creaminess to the buttercream, making it delightful and fluffy.
• Vanilla extract (for filling) – Enhances the flavor, giving a deliciously aromatic profile.
For Decoration
• Edible glitter or sprinkles – Optional, yet they add a fun, festive sparkle that mimics holiday cheer!
• Red candies or small fruit chews – Perfect for decoration, these resemble ornaments on your edible Christmas trees.
These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are a delightful way to spread joy this holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent the macarons from sticking. This preparation will create an ideal environment for baking your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons to perfection, ensuring they develop those beautiful feet and a crisp exterior.
Step 2: Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together 1 cup of almond flour, 1 ¾ cups of powdered sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Sifting aerates the mixture, helping the macarons become light and airy. Once combined, set this dry mixture aside to ensure it’s ready for incorporation into the meringue in the next step.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, add 3 large egg whites that have been aged at room temperature for 24 hours. Whip on medium speed until frothy, then gradually introduce ½ cup of granulated sugar. Increase the speed to high and continue whipping until you achieve stiff peaks that are glossy and stable, typically taking about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Color
Once you have stiff peaks, gently add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a few drops of green gel food coloring to your whipped meringue. Mix until the desired shade is reached, creating a vibrant green hue that will beautifully characterize your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold the almond flour mixture into the meringue using a spatula. Do this in three additions, folding gently but thoroughly until the batter flows like lava and holds a figure eight shape without breaking. This is key for achieving the perfect consistency for your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
Step 6: Pipe the Macarons
Transfer your macaron batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. On the prepared baking sheets, pipe small circles approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, leaving enough space between each macaron to allow for expansion. This spacing helps your macarons rise beautifully without merging into one another.
Step 7: Rest the Piped Shells
After piping, firmly tap the baking sheets on the counter to eliminate any air bubbles. Let the piped macarons rest for 30-60 minutes until a skin forms on the surface and they are no longer sticky to the touch, which is crucial for developing that perfect shell.
Step 8: Bake the Macarons
Place your macarons in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through to ensure even cooking. Look for firm tops and well-set feet, as these indicators let you know your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are baking perfectly.
Step 9: Cool the Macarons
Once baked, allow the macarons to cool completely on the baking sheets. This process can take about 10 minutes, after which you can carefully transfer them to a wire rack. Ensure they are fully cooled before filling to avoid melting the buttercream.
Step 10: Make the Buttercream Filling
While your macarons cool, prepare the buttercream filling. In a medium bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually mix in 4 cups of sifted powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Step 11: Assemble the Macarons
Once all macaron shells are cooled, pair them by size. Pipe a generous dollop of buttercream onto the flat side of one shell and sandwich it with its matching pair. Press gently to ensure the filling spreads to the edges, making a delightful treat to enjoy.
Step 12: Decorate the Macarons
Finally, for a festive touch, decorate your assembled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons with edible glitter or sprinkles and place a small red candy or fruit chew on top. This fun decoration will mimic Christmas ornaments, making your sweet creations look as delightful as they taste!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Room Temperature: Keep unfilled macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they stay fresh and maintain their delightful texture.
Fridge: If you’ve filled your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons, store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This helps preserve their flavor and creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled macarons by placing them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and will retain their quality.
Reheating: If you’ve frozen filled macarons, let them thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before enjoying. This will ensure they’re delightful and a treat to savor!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 3 days in advance by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which helps maintain their delicate texture. To keep the shells fresh, make sure they cool completely before stacking them carefully. You can also whip up the buttercream filling ahead of time, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you're ready to serve, simply pipe the filling between the macaron shells and add your festive decorations, ensuring your treats are just as delightful as if freshly made!
What to Serve with Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Elevate your holiday dessert table and create a festive experience with these charming macarons that bring joy to every bite.
-
Rich Hot Chocolate: The smooth, creamy texture of hot chocolate complements the delicate crunch and sweetness of the macarons, creating a delightful pairing on chilly evenings.
-
Peppermint Bark: A crunchy and chewy treat, peppermint bark adds a refreshing minty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich almond and buttercream in the macarons.
-
Fruit Tart: The fresh fruit and crispy crust provide a light, tangy balance that enhances the sweetness of the macarons, making it a show-stopping combination.
-
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider, infused with cinnamon and cloves, offers a cozy beverage that perfectly complements the festive flavors of the macarons.
-
Festive Cheese Board: Include a platter of assorted cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits. The savory and creamy elements wonderfully contrast the sweet macarons, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
-
Chocolate Ganache Dip: A luscious chocolate ganache serves as a decadent dipping option, adding richness and indulgence to the lightness of the Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
A medley of textures and flavors will create a memorable celebration, where each bite brings smiles and warmth as you gather with friends and family.
Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Variations
Feel free to explore delightful twists and swaps to make this recipe truly your own!
- Nut-Free: Swap almond flour for finely ground sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option that’s just as delicious.
- Vegan: Use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) in place of egg whites for a delightful vegan-friendly macaron.
- Flavor Fest: Add almond extract or peppermint extract to the buttercream for a festive flavor boost that will surprise your guests.
- Color Burst: Experiment with different gel food colorings, like red or blue, to create a rainbow of holiday treats that delight both kids and adults.
- Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate cocoa powder into the almond flour mix for chocolate macarons. Pair these with a chocolate ganache for an indulgent treat!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the buttercream filling for a surprising twist that balances sweetness with a hint of heat.
- Texture Twist: Instead of using smooth buttercream, try a crunchy filling made with crushed cookies mixed into your buttercream for added texture.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in pureed raspberry or strawberry into your buttercream filling, perfectly complementing the almond flavor of the shells with a fruity zing.
These variations not only add fun to your baking journey but also cater to various dietary needs and flavor preferences! Consider pairing your macarons with a cup of rich hot chocolate or even some festive spiced tea for a complete holiday experience. Happy baking!
Tips for the Best Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Aged Egg Whites: Use egg whites that have been aged at room temperature for 24 hours; this helps achieve the perfect meringue consistency.
Gentle Folding: When incorporating the dry ingredients into the meringue, fold gently to avoid deflating the whipped egg whites for your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
Rest Time Matters: Allow the piped macarons to rest until a skin forms, preventing cracking and ensuring those beautiful feet will develop while baking.
Consistent Sizing: Pipe your macarons uniformly to ensure even baking; this will make your holiday treats both delightful in appearance and great in texture.
Storage Tips: Keep unfilled macarons in an airtight container for up to a week. Filled macarons taste best when eaten fresh within 2-3 days.
Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Recipe FAQs
What kind of almond flour should I use?
I recommend using finely ground blanched almond flour for these macarons. It gives them a smooth texture and prevents graininess. Avoid using almond meal, as it can contain pieces of almond skin, which could affect the overall appearance and mouthfeel of your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
How long can I store filled macarons?
Filled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, as the creaminess and flavor are at their peak. Be sure to eat them within this timeframe to savor their delightful taste!
Can I freeze these macarons?
Absolutely! To freeze unfilled macarons, place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw in the fridge for a couple of hours, and then you can fill and decorate them as desired!
Why did my macarons spread out during baking?
If your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons spread out instead of holding their shape, it could be due to under-mixing or not letting them rest before baking. Make sure that your meringue forms stiff peaks and that you fold in the dry ingredients gently—your batter should flow like lava and form a figure eight without breaking. Resting for 30-60 minutes before baking is crucial for forming that protective skin!
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons is naturally gluten-free due to the use of almond flour. Just be cautious when choosing your other ingredients, particularly the powdered sugar and any decorations, to ensure they are also gluten-free.
What can I use instead of egg whites for a vegan option?
If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) works wonderfully in place of egg whites. Use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white needed, and whip it until you achieve stiff peaks. Your macarons may have a slightly different texture, but they’ll still be delightful!
Delightful Christmas Tree Cake Macarons to Sweeten Your Holidays
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Piping Bag
- Baking Sheets
- parchment paper
- Electric mixer
Ingredients
Macaron Shells
- 1 cup almond flour This ingredient gives the macarons their signature texture and nutty flavor.
- 1.75 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the shells and helps achieve that perfect, smooth finish.
- 0.25 teaspoon salt Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 3 large egg whites Aged at room temperature for 24 hours.
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar Adds stability to the meringue.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Infuses a warm, inviting flavor.
- a few drops green gel food coloring Choose your desired shade for festive macarons!
Buttercream Filling
- 1 cup unsalted butter Softened for easy mixing.
- 4 cups powdered sugar Sifted to ensure smoothness.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream Adds luxurious creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavor.
Decoration
- edible glitter or sprinkles Optional, adds a fun, festive sparkle.
- red candies or small fruit chews Perfect for decorating, resembling ornaments.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Sift together almond flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl, then set aside.
- Whip egg whites on medium speed until frothy, gradually adding granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently add vanilla extract and green gel food coloring to the meringue.
- Fold the almond flour mixture into the meringue in three additions.
- Pipe small circles on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each.
- Let the piped macarons rest for 30-60 minutes until a skin forms.
- Bake macarons for 15-18 minutes, rotating halfway.
- Allow macarons to cool completely on the baking sheets.
- Beat softened butter for the buttercream filling, then mix in powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
- Assemble the macarons by pairing them and filling with buttercream.
- Decorate with edible glitter or sprinkles and place a red candy on top.
Leave a Reply