Name: Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 130 g powdered sugar; 120 g almond flour; 7 g cocoa powder; 105 g egg whites; 100 g granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla paste; 1/2 tsp red food gel; 113 g heavy cream (cold); 50 g granulated sugar (for frosting); 113 g mascarpone (cold); 1/2 tsp vanilla paste (for frosting)

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Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting

Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting are a delightful twist on the traditional French treat, combining the rich flavors of red velvet cake with the elegance of macarons. These eye-catching cookies not only taste delicious but also make a stunning addition to any dessert table or celebration. With a crisp outer shell and a luscious mascarpone frosting filling, they are sure to impress your friends and family.

Why Make This Recipe

Creating Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting is a wonderful way to elevate your baking skills. This recipe offers a fun and creative approach to macarons and allows you to experiment with flavor and color. They’re perfect for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, or simply as a treat for yourself. The rich, smooth filling complements the light, airy shells beautifully, making them irresistible. Plus, with a bit of practice, you can master the art of macaron-making and wow everyone with your culinary prowess.

How to Make Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting

Crafting these macarons may seem daunting at first, but with the right approach and attention to detail, you’ll find it an enjoyable experience. Below, you’ll find all the ingredients you need along with simple step-by-step directions to get you baking these delightful treats.

Ingredients

130 g powdered sugar
120 g almond flour
7 g cocoa powder
105 g egg whites
100 g granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla paste
1/2 tsp red food gel
113 g heavy cream (cold)
50 g granulated sugar (for frosting)
113 g mascarpone (cold)
1/2 tsp vanilla paste (for frosting)

Directions

For the Macaron Shells:

Prepare Your Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. You can also use a macaron template underneath the parchment to ensure even sizing.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, sift together the powdered sugar, almond flour, and cocoa powder. This step is crucial as it helps to break up any lumps and ensures a smooth texture.
Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean mixing bowl, whip the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. The meringue should be glossy and hold its shape.
Add Color and Flavor: Gently fold in the vanilla paste and red food gel into the meringue until evenly incorporated.
Combine Wet and Dry: Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the meringue in three parts. Be gentle to maintain the airiness of the meringue. The final batter should flow like lava and form a ribbon when dropped from a spatula.
Pipe the Macarons: Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them. Tap the baking sheets lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Rest the Macarons: Let the macarons sit at room temperature for at least 30-60 minutes, until they form a dry skin on top. This helps achieve the signature “foot” of macarons.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Bake the macarons for about 15-18 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through. They should not brown too much; you want them to keep their vibrant color.
Cool: Once baked, allow the shells to cool completely on the baking sheets before removing them.

For the Mascarpone Frosting:

Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Prepare the Frosting: In another bowl, combine the cold mascarpone, 50 g granulated sugar, and vanilla paste. Mix on low speed until combined.
Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined and fluffy. Be careful not to deflate the cream.

For Assembly:

Pair the Shells: Match similar sized macaron shells together.
Fill the Macarons: Pipe a dollop of mascarpone frosting onto the flat side of one shell, then gently press the other shell on top to create a sandwich.
Chill: Place the assembled macarons in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, as this helps the flavors meld together.

Pro Tips for Success with Red Velvet Macarons

Use a Kitchen Scale: Accurate measurements are crucial in macaron making. A kitchen scale will ensure precise ingredient amounts.
Room Temperature Eggs: If possible, use egg whites that have been aged for a few days at room temperature. This can enhance the stability of the meringue.
Sift Dry Ingredients: Never skip the sifting step; it helps avoid lumps and creates a smoother batter.
Perfect Your Folding Technique: When combining meringue with dry ingredients, fold gently to avoid deflating the mixture but ensure it’s thoroughly mixed.
Test the Batter: Before piping all the batters, do a “batter test” on a plate. If the batter holds its shape and doesn’t spread excessively, you’re good to go.
Monitor Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. It may be necessary to adjust your baking time or temperature based on your specific oven.

Flavor Variations for Red Velvet Macarons

Chocolate Macarons: Replace the red food gel with additional cocoa powder for rich chocolate macarons with a mascarpone chocolate ganache.
Cream Cheese Filling: Swap the mascarpone for cream cheese for a classic red velvet cupcake flavor profile.
Coconut Macarons: Add shredded coconut to the mascarpone frosting for a tropical twist.
Espresso Infusion: Mix in a little finely ground coffee into the shell batter for a mocha-flavored macaron.
Fruit Flavor: Add a layer of fruit preserves like raspberry or strawberry between the shell and frosting for a fresh, fruity flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Red Velvet Macarons

These macarons can be served at a variety of occasions such as:

Tea Parties: Their vibrant color and elegant appearance make them perfect for afternoon tea.
Weddings: Consider using them as part of a dessert table or as unique wedding favors.
Birthdays: Their cheerful red color makes them suitable for birthday celebrations.
Holidays: Incorporate them into festive gatherings during Christmas or Valentine’s Day.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Red Velvet Macarons

To maintain freshness, store the assembled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week when stored correctly. For long-term storage, you can freeze the unfilled macaron shells. Place them in an airtight container separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you want to use them, simply thaw at room temperature and then fill them with the frosting.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|———-|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 50 mg |

FAQ About Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting

Can I make macarons in advance?

Yes! Refrigerator-stored assembled macarons will taste even better after a day, as the flavors meld together. Just ensure they’re airtight to keep them fresh.

What’s the secret to getting the "feet" on macarons?

The key is to ensure you are using the right meringue technique and allowing the macarons to rest before baking. The drying process helps in developing feet.

Can I substitute almond flour?

Yes, you can try using hazelnut flour or finely ground seeds for a flavor twist, but note that almond flour is the classic choice for macarons for its texture.

What if my macarons crack while baking?

Cracked macarons may result from under-mixing or overbaking. Ensure your batter flows smoothly and is well-mixed, and adjust baking time according to your oven.

How do I achieve a deep red color in my macarons?

Using a gel food coloring can yield a more intense color than liquid dyes, helping your shells achieve the classic red velvet look. Be cautious to use just the right amount.

Can I make these macarons gluten-free?

Absolutely! As the recipe primarily uses almond flour, it is naturally gluten-free, making these macarons a sweet treat for those with gluten allergies.

Final Thoughts

Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting combine classic flavors with the elegance of French pastry. Making macarons at home can be a rewarding experience, filled with learning and precision as you craft the perfect delicate treats. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe, whether for a special occasion or to impress friends with your baking skills. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!

Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting