How To Make Macarons In The Uk

Cheetahshop

June 09, 2023

Introduction

Macarons are delicate, delicious, and elegant French pastries that have become popular all over the world. They are made from almond flour, sugar, and egg whites, and come in a variety of flavors and colors. Making macarons can be a bit tricky, but with the right recipe and some practice, anyone can create these beautiful treats at home. In this article, we will share a macaron recipe that is tailored for the UK.

Ingredients

For the macaron shells:

200g ground almonds
200g icing sugar
200g caster sugar
150g egg whites (aged for 24 hours)
50g water

For the filling:

150g unsalted butter, softened
150g icing sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start making the macarons, it’s important to weigh out all the ingredients accurately. You will also need to age the egg whites for 24 hours by separating them from the yolks and leaving them in a covered container in the fridge.

Step 2: Sift the Almond Flour and Icing Sugar

Sift the ground almonds and icing sugar together into a large mixing bowl. This will help to remove any lumps and ensure that the macarons have a smooth texture.

Step 3: Make the Meringue

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This may take a few minutes, so be patient. Once the egg whites are stiff, gradually add the caster sugar and continue whisking until the mixture is glossy and holds its shape.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients and Meringue

Carefully fold the sifted almond flour and icing sugar mixture into the meringue, using a spatula. Be gentle and do not overmix, as this can cause the macarons to become flat.

Step 5: Pipe the Macarons

Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round nozzle. Pipe small circles onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a bit of space between each one. Tap the tray gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

Step 6: Rest the Macarons

Leave the macarons to rest at room temperature for around 30 minutes. This will help to form a skin on the surface, which is important for creating the characteristic ‘feet’ of the macarons.

Step 7: Bake the Macarons

Preheat the oven to 150°C (130°C fan)/300°F/gas mark 2. Bake the macarons for around 15 minutes, or until they are set and have formed feet. Leave them to cool completely on the baking tray.

Step 8: Make the Filling

While the macarons are cooling, make the filling. Beat the softened butter, icing sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Assemble the Macarons

Once the macarons are cool, carefully remove them from the baking tray. Match up pairs of similar-sized macaron shells. Pipe or spoon a small amount of filling onto one shell, then gently press the other shell on top to create a sandwich.

Nutrition

Macarons are a sweet treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. One macaron (with filling) typically contains around 80-100 calories, depending on the size and filling. They are also high in sugar and fat, so it’s best to limit your intake.

Conclusion

Making macarons can be a fun and rewarding experience. With this recipe, you can create delicious and beautiful macarons in the comfort of your own home. Remember to follow the instructions carefully and practice patience and precision. Happy baking!