Macarons

Ingredients

• 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup almond flour
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• Food coloring (optional)
• Ganache or other filling (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. In a stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat the egg whites on medium-high speed until foamy. Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Add the food coloring, if using, and beat until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg whites until combined and a thick batter forms. Do not overmix.
4. Transfer the batter to a large pastry bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe 1-inch circles onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart. Tap the baking sheets on the countertop to release any air bubbles. Let the macarons sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
5. Bake the macarons for 18-20 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool completely before removing from the parchment paper.
6. To assemble the macarons, spread a small amount of ganache or other filling on the bottom of one macaron. Top with a second macaron, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat with remaining macarons.

Interesting Facts

• Macarons can be filled with a variety of fillings, including ganache, jam, buttercream, and even chocolate.
• Macarons are a traditional French dessert, originating in the 16th century.
• Macarons can be made in a variety of colors and flavors.