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Perfect Gingerbread Macarons Recipe Easy Cozy Holiday Spices

gingerbread macarons - featured image

Delight in the crisp snap of delicate macaron shells paired with a spicy, cozy gingerbread filling, perfect for holiday gatherings and gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 100g almond flour (finely ground; about 3.5 oz)
  • 100g powdered sugar (sifted; about 3.5 oz)
  • 75g egg whites (about 2 large eggs, aged 12 days at room temperature)
  • 30g granulated sugar (about 2 tbsp)
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar (optional)
  • A few drops of natural ginger extract or vanilla extract
  • Brown food coloring (optional)
  • 115g unsalted butter (softened; about 8 tbsp or 1 stick)
  • 150g powdered sugar (sifted; about 5.3 oz)
  • 1 tbsp molasses
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together into a large bowl at least twice to break up clumps and ensure smooth shells. Set aside.
  2. In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until frothy. Add cream of tartar if using.
  3. Gradually add granulated sugar while increasing speed to high until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  4. Add a few drops of natural ginger extract and optional brown food coloring to the meringue. Gently fold to distribute evenly.
  5. Add the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture to the meringue in three parts. Fold gently but thoroughly until batter flows like thick lava.
  6. Transfer batter to a piping bag and pipe 1.5-inch rounds onto prepared baking sheets spaced about 1 inch apart.
  7. Tap baking sheets firmly twice on the counter to release air bubbles. Let rest in a draft-free spot for 30-60 minutes until a thin skin forms.
  8. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake one tray at a time on the middle rack for 15-17 minutes until shells are firm and have risen feet.
  9. Remove from oven and peel shells off parchment or silicone mat. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  10. Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, molasses, spices, and salt. Beat until fluffy and smooth.
  11. Pair shells of similar size. Pipe about 1 tsp of filling onto one shell and sandwich with its partner. Press gently to spread filling to edges.
  12. Refrigerate assembled macarons in an airtight container for at least 24 hours to let flavors meld. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Notes

Age egg whites 24-48 hours at room temperature for better meringue volume. Be gentle folding batter to avoid flat or lumpy shells. Let shells rest to form a skin before baking to prevent cracks and promote feet. Use an oven thermometer to maintain steady 300°F temperature. Refrigerate assembled macarons at least 24 hours for best flavor. For vegan version, use aquafaba and dairy-free margarine. Molasses can be substituted with dark maple syrup if needed.

Nutrition

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