As the sweet scent of caramel wafts through the air, I can’t help but feel like I’m walking through a quaint French bakery. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Salted Caramel Macarons, a delightful treat that perfectly marries a crisp outer shell with a luscious, gooey caramel center. Not only are these macarons a showstopper for any gathering, but their use of the Italian meringue method ensures consistent results, even for those new to baking. Plus, they’re easily customizable, so you can play with flavors or impress your friends at your next dinner party. Will you join me in crafting these elegant French delights that are sure to make your taste buds sing?
Why Are These Macarons So Irresistible?
Texture Perfection: Each macaron boasts a crisp, golden shell that elegantly gives way to a creamy, gooey salted caramel center.
Personal Touch: Customize your macarons with different ganache flavors, from rich dark chocolate to festive peppermint, making them uniquely yours.
Whimsical Appeal: A showstopper for gatherings, these macarons are sure to impress friends and family, elevating any event like a trip to a French patisserie.
Quick & Easy: Utilizing the Italian meringue method, this recipe is simple enough for beginners while also providing reliable results for seasoned bakers.
Versatile Treats: Whether enjoyed as a delightful dessert or paired with coffee for a luxurious afternoon treat, they are perfect for any occasion! For more sweet inspiration, check out my Caramel Toffee Crunch recipe.
Salted Caramel Macaron Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells
- Almond Flour – Provides structure and a nutty flavor; can substitute with finely ground hazelnuts for a different nutty note.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in achieving a smooth texture; no direct substitutions recommended, but you can make homemade powdered sugar if necessary.
- Egg Whites – Essential for meringue stability and structure; fresh egg whites are ideal for the best results.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and stability to the meringue; coconut sugar may be used as a substitute for a lower glycemic index.
- Water – Used to dissolve sugar for the meringue; no substitution required.
For the Salted Caramel Filling
- Salted Caramel Sauce – Flavoring agent that provides the caramel flavor and a touch of saltiness; use homemade or store-bought, and adjust salt to taste.
- Heavy Cream – Mixed with white chocolate for ganache; adds richness that complements the macarons and can be substituted with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- White Chocolate – Provides creaminess and sweetness; essential for the ganache, but dark chocolate can be used for a richer experience.
- Flaky Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and provides a finishing touch; any quality sea salt will do, but flaky is preferable for texture.
Now you have everything you need to create your Salted Caramel Macarons! The combination of flavors and textures is sure to delight anyone lucky enough to have a bite. Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Macarons
Step 1: Prepare the Almond Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour and powdered sugar, sifting them together to remove lumps. Add half of the egg whites and a few drops of caramel gel color, stirring until the mixture becomes thick and sticky. This forms the base for your salted caramel macarons, ensuring a smooth texture.
Step 2: Cook Sugar Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until dissolved. Allow it to cook undisturbed until it reaches 244°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. Keep a close eye on the color; it should stay clear until it reaches the desired temperature, ensuring your macarons will be perfectly sweet.
Step 3: Whip Egg Whites
While your sugar syrup cooks, place the remaining egg whites into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become frothy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually pour the hot sugar syrup into the egg whites, continuing to whip on high speed until stiff peaks form and the mixture appears glossy.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
To gently mix the meringue with the almond mixture, fold a small amount of the whipped meringue into the almond mixture using a spatula. Once incorporated, carefully fold in the remaining meringue, ensuring the batter flows smoothly in a ribbon when lifted. This crucial step helps achieve the perfect texture for your salted caramel macarons.
Step 5: Pipe and Bake
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto the parchment, spacing them apart to allow for spreading. Tap the baking sheet firmly against the counter to release any trapped air. Bake at 311°F (155°C) for 12-14 minutes, with the tops forming a firm shell that doesn’t stick when touched.
Step 6: Prepare Caramel Ganache
While the macarons cool, prepare the ganache by bringing heavy cream to a boil in a small saucepan. Pour the hot cream over chopped white chocolate and salted caramel in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften, then stir until smooth and creamy. Chill the ganache until it’s firm enough to pipe, about 30-60 minutes.
Step 7: Assemble Macarons
Once the macaron shells are completely cool, pipe a ring of the chilled caramel ganache onto the flat side of one shell. Place a small dollop of soft caramel in the center, then top with another macaron shell, pressing gently to create a sandwich. The contrast of textures will bring your salted caramel macarons to life!
Step 8: Chill and Serve
For optimal flavor and texture, let the assembled macarons chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, though overnight is best. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a decadent treat that’s ready to impress all your guests. Enjoy these delightful salted caramel macarons at your next gathering!
Storage Tips for Salted Caramel Macarons
Room Temperature: Keep the shells at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 week, ensuring a crisp exterior without moisture.
Fridge: Filled macarons should be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container to maintain their delicious salted caramel filling.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled macarons in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Reheating: Do not reheat macarons; just enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for the ultimate flavor experience of your salted caramel macarons.
Salted Caramel Macaron Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic salted caramel macarons and personalize them to suit your taste buds!
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Nutty Alternative: Substitute almond flour with finely ground hazelnuts for a delightful hazelnut flavor that pairs beautifully with caramel. Imagine the nutty aroma as you take a bite; it’s truly enchanting!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream to create a luscious and dairy-free caramel ganache. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness that complements the caramel perfectly.
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Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate in your ganache for a richer, more intense flavor that adds depth to your macarons. The combination of dark chocolate and salted caramel is a match made in dessert heaven!
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Fruity Flavor: Incorporate fruit puree, like raspberry or passionfruit, into the ganache to create a sweet and tangy contrast against the salted caramel. The burst of fruity flavor will elevate your macarons to new heights!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the caramel filling to infuse a subtle heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness. This unexpected twist offers a memorable experience with every bite.
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Seasonal Taste: For holiday gatherings, add peppermint extract to your ganache for a festive flavor. These peppermint salted caramel macarons are a delightful spin that guests will rave about!
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: When assembling, drizzle warm salted caramel sauce over the ganache before placing the top shell. This extra layer brings indulgence to every mouthful.
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Flavor Fusion: Experiment with different ganache flavors, such as coffee or lavender, to create variations that surprise and delight your family and friends. Let your creativity shine through with unique combinations!
For even more inspiration, don’t miss out on my decadent Caramel Toffee Crunch recipe, which also embraces that delightful caramel flavor! You’ll find it hard to resist the indulgence. Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Macarons
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Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements to ensure your macarons have the perfect texture and consistency.
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Perfect Egg Whites: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature and whipped to glossy stiff peaks. Under-whipped meringue can result in flat shells.
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Age Your Egg Whites: If time allows, let your egg whites sit uncovered in the refrigerator for a day or two. This helps evaporate moisture and improves meringue stability.
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Avoid Humidity: Macarons are sensitive to moisture; bake on a dry day for the best results, as humidity can impact the drying and baking process.
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Piping Technique: When piping, hold the bag perpendicular to the baking sheet for even shapes, and tap the sheet afterwards to release any trapped air bubbles.
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Cooling Time: Allow the macarons to cool completely before removing them from the baking sheet to prevent cracking and ensure they maintain their shape.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Caramel Macarons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. The caramel ganache can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just ensure it’s tightly covered to prevent it from absorbing odors. When you’re ready to assemble, allow the ganache to come to room temperature and pipe it onto the cooled macaron shells. By prepping these components in advance, you’ll save precious time on busy days while still enjoying homemade, delightful desserts that are just as delicious as fresh!
What to Serve with Perfectly Silky Salted Caramel Macarons?
The delightful balance of rich caramel and crisp shells creates a perfect opportunity to craft a full, indulgent meal experience.
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Rich Dark Coffee: The bold flavors of dark coffee complement the sweet richness of the macarons, enhancing the caramel’s profile beautifully.
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Creamy Vanilla Panna Cotta: This silky dessert mirrors the smoothness of the macarons while adding a contrasting creaminess that leaves your palate refreshed.
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Fresh Berries: Light and tangy, fresh berries bring a burst of brightness, cutting through the sweetness and offering a delightful textural contrast to the macarons.
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Herbal Tea: A fragrant herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, provides a soothing pairing that balances the rich, indulgent flavors of your salted caramel macarons.
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Chocolate Fondue: Dipping the macarons into warm chocolate fondue creates an interactive dessert experience that’s decadent and delightful.
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Mini Fruit Tartlets: The crispy tart shell filled with creamy custard and topped with fruits adds a layer of freshness, making it a delightful pairing with your macarons.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly sparkling wine makes for an elegant pairing, enhancing the overall dining experience with its effervescence alongside the sweet macarons.
Embrace creativity as you assemble this scrumptious ensemble that will surely dazzle your family and friends!
Salted Caramel Macarons Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best almonds for almond flour?
Absolutely! Look for blanched almonds, which have had their skins removed for a smoother texture. If you can, select fresh almonds without dark spots or a bitter smell, as they can affect the flavor of your macarons.
Can I store macarons at room temperature?
Very! You can store the macaron shells at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week. Just ensure they’re kept away from moisture to maintain their crisp exterior; otherwise, humidity can ruin the texture!
What’s the best way to freeze salted caramel macarons?
To freeze your assembled macarons for up to 3 months, place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.
What should I do if my macarons are not rising properly?
If your macarons aren’t rising as expected, the first step is to check your meringue. Ensure that you’ve whipped the egg whites to glossy stiff peaks. Additionally, the batter should flow in a thick ribbon when you lift it; if it’s too runny, you may have overmixed after combining the meringue. Start fresh with the measurements, and don’t forget to fold carefully!
Are salted caramel macarons safe for pets?
Not really! Salted caramel macarons are high in sugar and contain ingredients like chocolate and heavy cream that can be harmful to pets. Make sure to keep these treats away from your furry friends and enjoy them yourself!
How can I adjust the sweetness in my macarons?
If you’d like to lower the sweetness a bit, consider using less powdered sugar in the macaron shell or trying a slightly less sweet alternative for the caramel sauce. Just remember that any changes could affect piping and overall consistency, so proceed with caution!
Irresistibly Delicious Salted Caramel Macarons to Make Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Almond Mixture: Combine almond flour and powdered sugar, sift together, then add half of the egg whites and caramel gel color. Mix until thick and sticky.
- Cook Sugar Syrup: Combine granulated sugar and water in a saucepan and cook until it reaches 244°F (118°C).
- Whip Egg Whites: Beat the remaining egg whites until frothy, then slowly add the hot sugar syrup and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Combine Mixtures: Fold the whipped meringue into the almond mixture until it flows smoothly in a ribbon.
- Pipe and Bake: Pipe small circles onto parchment paper, then bake at 311°F (155°C) for 12-14 minutes.
- Prepare Caramel Ganache: Boil the heavy cream, then pour over chopped white chocolate and salted caramel. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble Macarons: Pipe ganache onto one shell, add soft caramel, top with another shell, and gently press together.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate assembled macarons for at least 1 hour before serving.
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