As I stood in my cozy kitchen, the scent of newly baked treats began to fill the air, a delightful promise of sweet satisfaction. Today, I’m inviting you to discover the magic of Salted Caramel Macarons, those beautifully delicate French desserts that are not only gluten-free but also the perfect way to impress your guests or treat yourself! Using the Italian meringue method guarantees a smooth batter and perfect results, even for novice bakers. These macarons balance crispy, airy shells with a rich, silky caramel ganache, topped off by a gooey caramel center that will have you savoring every bite. Plus, they’re perfect for making ahead of time or serving at your next gathering. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this unforgettable recipe!
Why Are These Macarons Irresistible?
Delicate Texture: Each macaron features a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, chewy interior, creating a heavenly contrast that melts in your mouth.
Deliciously Rich Flavors: The combination of silky ganache and gooey salted caramel provides a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness, making every bite unforgettable.
Impressively Elegant: These macarons are a stunning treat perfect for any occasion, effortlessly elevating your dessert spread.
Easy to Master: With the Italian meringue method, even beginners can achieve bakery-quality results with just a few simple steps.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize your macarons with various flavors or fillings, giving you the freedom to experiment and tailor to your tastes. If you love caramel, check out our Caramel Toffee Crunch for another delightful treat!
Salted Caramel Macaron Ingredients
• To create these delightful salted caramel macarons, gather the following ingredients for perfect results.
For the Shells
- Almond Flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with finely ground hazelnuts for a nutty twist.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and ensures a smooth batter; avoid using granulated sugar for the best results.
- Egg Whites – Essential for meringue structure; using aged egg whites helps achieve better aeration.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the meringue; no substitutions necessary for optimal flavor.
For the Sugar Syrup
- Water – Assists in dissolving sugar for a smooth syrup; there are no substitutions needed here.
- Granulated Sugar – Creates the syrup for the meringue; use caster sugar for a finer texture if preferred.
For the Ganache Filling
- White Chocolate – Adds richness and creaminess to the ganache; dark chocolate can be used for a more intense flavor.
- Heavy Cream – Essential for a silky smooth ganache texture; avoid light cream as it lacks the richness needed.
- Extra Salted Caramel – Intensifies flavor and works as a delectable filling; store-bought caramel can be used if time is short.
For Finishing Touches
- Flaky Sea Salt – Complements and enhances the flavors of the filling; kosher salt can serve as a substitute if needed.
Get ready to take your baking to new heights with these salted caramel macarons that are bound to impress your family and friends!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Macarons
Step 1: Prepare the Macaron Shells
In a mixing bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar until well combined. Add half of the aged egg whites and a few drops of caramel color, mixing until the batter is sticky and cohesive. This will create the foundation for your salted caramel macarons, setting the stage for beautiful shells.
Step 2: Make Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan, combine 150g of granulated sugar and 50ml of water. Heat over medium until the mixture reaches a boil. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, waiting until it reaches 244°F (118°C). This syrup is crucial for creating a glossy meringue and perfecting the texture of the salted caramel macarons.
Step 3: Whip Egg Whites
While the syrup cooks, place the remaining egg whites in a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Begin whipping on medium speed until frothy, then gradually pour in the hot sugar syrup in a thin stream. Increase speed to high and whip until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy. This creates the airy meringue needed for your macarons.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently loosen the almond and sugar mixture with one-third of the whipped meringue, folding until incorporated. Carefully add in the rest of the meringue, and fold until the batter flows in thick ribbons when lifted. The goal is a smooth, fluid batter that will perfectly shape your salted caramel macarons.
Step 5: Pipe the Shells
Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Fill a piping bag fitted with a round tip and pipe 1.5-inch rounds onto the prepared sheet, leaving space between each. Tap the baking sheet firmly on the counter to release any air bubbles. This will help create the signature “feet” of the macaron shells.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 311°F (155°C). Allow the piped macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes until a thin skin forms on the surface. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the shells don’t move when touched and easily release from the parchment. Allow them to cool completely before peeling off the baking surface.
Step 7: Prepare Caramel Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat 100ml of heavy cream until it just begins to boil. Pour the hot cream over 200g of chopped white chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for a minute. Stir until smooth, then mix in 50g of salted caramel, ensuring an irresistible filling for your salted caramel macarons. Chill the ganache for 3-4 hours in the refrigerator until firm.
Step 8: Assemble Macarons
Once the ganache is chilled, whip it until creamy and smooth. Pipe a ring of ganache onto the flat side of one macaron shell, creating a barrier to hold the filling. Place a small dollop of soft caramel in the center and top with another macaron shell. Gently press together to secure the filling.
Step 9: Chill Again
For the best texture, allow the assembled salted caramel macarons to chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal. This resting period helps the flavors meld and the textures develop, ensuring a delicious treat that is even more enjoyable when you finally serve them.
Salted Caramel Macarons Variations & Substitutions
Customizing your salted caramel macarons can elevate their deliciousness and make them uniquely yours! Explore these exciting twists to make your macaron experience even more delightful.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed flour instead of almond flour for a nut-free alternative that still delivers amazing flavor and texture.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream and dairy-free dark chocolate for a rich vegan ganache that’s equally indulgent.
- Flavor Infusions: Add a splash of espresso or peppermint extract to the ganache for a vibrant flavor boost that complements the caramel beautifully.
- Colorful Shells: Incorporate natural food colors like beet juice or spirulina to create a rainbow of macaron shells that are just as fun as they are tasty.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the caramel for a surprising, fiery element that contrasts delightfully with the sweetness.
- Chocolate Lovers: Replace some of the almond flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate macaron shell that pairs perfectly with the salted caramel filling.
- Fruit Flavors: Try filling your macarons with a fresh fruit preserve or lemon curd for a refreshing, tangy alternative to the salted caramel ganache.
- Festive Touch: Dust the finished macarons with a sprinkle of edible glitter or gold dust for a glamorous finishing touch that will impress any crowd.
For more indulgent recipes, don’t forget to visit our Caramel Toffee Crunch for a sweet treat that’s sure to make your taste buds dance!
What to Serve with Decadent Salted Caramel Macarons?
Indulging in these creamy, sweet treats is just the beginning; let’s elevate your dessert experience further with delightful pairings.
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Rich Coffee: A perfectly brewed cup balances the sweetness of the macarons, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
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Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries add a tart contrast that cuts through the richness, refreshing your palate with each bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, smooth, and classic, a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, creating a satisfying texture contrast.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Indulge in decadence with these sweet bites. The chocolate complements the salted caramel, making every taste heavenly.
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Sweet Dessert Wine: Consider a Sauternes or Moscato; their fruity notes and sweetness will harmonize beautifully with the macarons.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of softly whipped cream can add a luscious touch, balancing the rich flavors of the macarons perfectly.
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Chocolate Ganache Tart: For a robust dessert table, serve with chocolate tart slices that mirror the ganache in the macarons, creating a delightful continuation of flavors.
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Sparkling Water: A refreshing sparkling water with a slice of lemon can cleanse the palate, making each bite feel new and exciting.
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Decadent Chocolate Cake: For chocolate lovers, a rich cake can serve as a delightful contrast, ensuring every bite is an enticing adventure.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy brie and tangy blue cheese can add a savory touch, making for an intriguing flavor profile when savored with the macarons.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Macarons
Fridge: Store filled macarons in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain their delicate texture while keeping the flavors fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled macarons in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: Thaw frozen macarons in the fridge for several hours before serving. Enjoy them cold for a crunchy bite, or let them sit at room temperature for a softer texture.
Airtight Storage: Ensure the container is airtight to prevent macarons from absorbing odors and drying out. Treat your salted caramel macarons with care, and they’ll reward you with delightful flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Caramel Macarons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crisp texture. The caramel ganache can also be made early—allow it to cool, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days until firm. When you’re ready to assemble, whip the ganache until smooth, pipe it onto a macaron shell with a dollop of soft caramel in the center, and sandwich with another shell. Allow the assembled macarons to chill for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight) for the best flavor and texture, ensuring each bite is just as delicious as freshly made!
Expert Tips for Perfect Macarons
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Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to ensure precise ingredient measurements; uneven amounts can lead to macaron failures.
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Stiff Meringue: Whip your egg whites until stiff peaks form; under-whipping will cause the macarons to flatten while baking.
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Let Them Rest: Allow piped macarons to sit for 30-60 minutes before baking; this forms a skin that contributes to their signature feet and prevents cracking.
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Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 311°F (155°C); an oven thermometer can ensure consistent baking, vital for perfect salted caramel macarons.
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Avoid Humidity: Make macarons on a dry day; humidity can affect the final texture and make achieving ideal shells more challenging.
Salted Caramel Macarons Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe almonds for my macaron shells?
Absolutely! When choosing almonds, look for bright, creamy beige-colored almond flour. Avoid any with dark spots or an off smell, as these could indicate spoilage. Fresh almond flour should be free of any clumps and have a fine, powdery texture to ensure the best macaron shells.
How should I store my macarons after making them?
Very! You can store filled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure they are completely cooled before storage to avoid them becoming soggy.
Can I freeze my salted caramel macarons?
Definitely! To freeze, place your assembled macarons in a single layer in an airtight container, partitioning layers with parchment paper. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge for several hours before serving.
What should I do if my macarons crack during baking?
Oh no! If your macarons crack, it could be due to over-mixing the batter or not allowing them to rest long enough before baking. Make sure the batter flows smoothly and forms thick ribbons when lifted. Also, allowing them to sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes helps form a skin, preventing cracks during baking.
Are these macarons gluten-free?
Yes, they absolutely are! Salted caramel macarons are made primarily with almond flour, which is naturally gluten-free. Just be cautious with any additional ingredients, such as the ganache or any flavorings you might add, ensuring they’re gluten-free as well for those with dietary restrictions. Feel free to customize based on your needs!
What’s the best way to prevent my meringue from becoming grainy?
Certainly! To avoid grainy meringue, ensure that your sugar is fully dissolved when making the sugar syrup, and be careful not to over-whip the egg whites. Swirling your whisk through the mixture should yield a smooth, glossy finish that is perfect for macaron-making. If you notice any gritty texture, you can try using superfine sugar next time for a sleeker result.
Heavenly Salted Caramel Macarons You Can't Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar until well combined. Add half of the aged egg whites and a few drops of caramel color, mixing until the batter is sticky and cohesive.
- In a saucepan, combine 150g of granulated sugar and 50ml of water. Heat over medium until mixture reaches 244°F (118°C).
- While the syrup cooks, whip the remaining egg whites in a stand mixer until frothy. Gradually add the hot sugar syrup and whip until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold one-third of the whipped meringue into the almond and sugar mixture. Then add the rest of the meringue, folding until the batter flows in thick ribbons.
- Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment. Fill a piping bag and pipe 1.5-inch rounds, leaving space between each. Tap the baking sheet to release air bubbles.
- Preheat your oven to 311°F (155°C) and let the piped macarons sit until a thin skin forms. Bake for 12–14 minutes.
- In a saucepan, heat 100ml of heavy cream until it boils. Pour over 200g of chopped white chocolate and mix until smooth, then add 50g of salted caramel. Chill ganache for 3-4 hours.
- Once ganache is chilled, whip until creamy. Pipe a ring onto the flat side of one macaron, add a dollop of caramel, and top with another shell.
- Chill assembled macarons in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
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