Peppermint Macarons Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a festive, elegant treat that feels like a little celebration in every bite, these Peppermint Macarons are going to steal your heart. With a crisp, delicate shell that gives way to a creamy peppermint buttercream filling, this recipe captures the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether it’s the holidays or just a special occasion, these macarons bring both charm and a refreshing minty twist that anyone will love. Trust me, once you master these beauties, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making perfect Peppermint Macarons starts with a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients that each play a pivotal role in achieving the right texture and flavor. From the finely ground almond flour that creates the signature smoothness of the shells to the peppermint extract that lends a festive coolness, every component counts.

• Almond flour: Use finely ground almond flour for a smooth macaron shell texture.
• Powdered sugar: Sifted to keep shells smooth and prevent lumpiness.
• Egg whites: Room temperature whites whip up better to achieve stiff peaks.
• Granulated sugar: Gradually added to stabilize the egg whites and add sweetness.
• Peppermint extract: Adds that refreshing mint flavor essential for this recipe.
• Pinch of salt: Helps stabilize the meringue for a perfect rise.
• Food coloring (optional): For adding a festive touch of color in your macarons.
• Unsalted butter: Softened for a creamy, rich buttercream filling.
• Additional powdered sugar (for filling): Adjust sweetness and thickness of the buttercream.

How to Make Peppermint Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

Begin by sifting together the almond flour and powdered sugar. This step is crucial for catching any lumps and ensuring that your macaron shells will be silky smooth without any grainy texture.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean bowl, whip the room temperature egg whites with a pinch of salt until they become foamy. Slowly add the granulated sugar while continuing to whip until you reach stiff, glossy peaks. This meringue gives your macarons their iconic lightness and structure.

Step 3: Combine and Fold

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the whipped egg whites along with peppermint extract. If you’re using food coloring, add it here to create a festive look. Take your time; the batter should flow slowly off the spatula but still hold its shape when piped.

Step 4: Pipe and Rest

Fill a piping bag with the batter and pipe small, even circles onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Let the piped shells rest for 30 to 60 minutes so a slight skin forms. This resting period is what helps develop those iconic smooth tops and prevents cracking in the oven.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake your macarons at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes. The timing can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. Once baked, allow them to cool completely before removing from the parchment paper.

Step 6: Make the Peppermint Buttercream

Beat softened unsalted butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar and peppermint extract. Continue mixing until the buttercream is smooth and fluffy, perfect for sandwiching your macaron shells.

Step 7: Assemble and Mature

Pipe a dollop of peppermint buttercream onto half of the macaron shells, then gently press together with the remaining shells to form little sandwiches. Refrigerate the assembled macarons for at least 24 hours to let the flavors meld and the texture soften to perfection.

How to Serve Peppermint Macarons

Garnishes

Adding a little garnish takes your Peppermint Macarons from beautifully simple to stunningly festive. Consider sprinkling crushed peppermint candies on top of the buttercream before sandwiching or adding a tiny edible silver ball for sparkle. These details make the macarons irresistible and perfect for holiday tables.

Side Dishes

Peppermint Macarons shine on their own but are lovely paired with a hot cup of rich dark chocolate or a peppermint-infused mocha. Their refreshing mint flavor cuts through the richness beautifully. You can also serve them alongside fresh berries or a light, creamy dessert like panna cotta for a sophisticated dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the plate! Arrange your macarons on a pretty tiered cake stand for a delightful visual impact at parties. Packaging them in colorful boxes or clear treat bags tied with holiday ribbons makes for charming gifts that friends and family will treasure. You can even use them as edible place cards at dinners by attaching small name tags.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Peppermint Macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and preserve their texture. They should stay delicious for up to five days, giving you plenty of time to savor every bite or share with friends.

Freezing

If you want to make these macarons ahead of time, freezing is a fantastic option. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t usually necessary for macarons, but if you prefer them at room temperature, simply set them out of the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can soften the shells too much and impact the delicate texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond flour with another type of flour?

Almond flour is essential for macarons because of its fat content and texture. Other flours won’t replicate the delicate, chewy texture of the shells, so it’s best to stick with almond flour for authentic Peppermint Macarons.

What’s the purpose of resting the piped shells before baking?

Resting allows a thin skin to form on the surface of the shells, which is key to achieving their signature smooth tops and prevents cracking during baking.

How important is the peppermint extract quality?

Very important! High-quality peppermint extract makes a noticeable difference in the depth and freshness of the mint flavor in both the shells and buttercream. It’s worth investing in a good one.

Can I make these macarons egg-free or vegan?

Traditional macarons rely on egg whites for structure, so substituting them is challenging. Vegan versions exist but require different recipes and techniques. For classic Peppermint Macarons, egg whites are necessary.

Why do my macaron shells crack sometimes?

Cracking often happens if the shells didn’t rest long enough to form a skin or if the oven temperature is too high. Make sure to let the shells rest until they’re dry to the touch before baking and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about creating Peppermint Macarons at home — they bring a festive burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to any occasion. The process can be a fun challenge that rewards you with beautifully delicate cookies that delight with every bite. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting them to loved ones, these macarons promise to be a memorable, delicious experience. So why wait? Dive in and let your kitchen fill with the sweet scent of peppermint perfection!