Heart Macarons with Lemon Buttercream
Heart-shaped macarons have a special place in my heart (pun intended). They are not only visually stunning but also melt-in-your-mouth delicious, especially when filled with a luxurious lemon buttercream. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, these Heart Macarons with Lemon Buttercream are perfect for impressing friends and family alike. Let’s dive into the delightful world of these sweet French confections!
The Upside of Heart Macarons with Lemon Buttercream
Heart macarons are more than just a treat; they are a symbol of love and creativity. With their delicate shells and luscious filling, they are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The tangy lemon buttercream complements the sweetness of the macarons perfectly, creating a balanced flavor profile that is hard to resist. These macarons are great for any occasion, from Valentine’s Day to bridal showers or simply as a delicious gift to show someone you care. Plus, the process of making these lovely treats is a rewarding experience that allows you to hone your baking skills.
What to Buy
To make these delightful Heart Macarons with Lemon Buttercream, here’s what you’ll need:
- Almond Meal/Flour: 70 grams (about 2/3 cup)
- Confectioners Sugar: 120 grams (about 1 cup)
- Egg Whites: 2 large (about 65 grams, room temp)
- Granulated Sugar: 50 grams (exactly 1/4 cup leveled)
- Red or Pink Gel Food Coloring: 1″ strip
- Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons, room temperature
- More Confectioners Sugar: 1 1/2 cups for the buttercream
- Salt: 1/8 teaspoon
- Fresh Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (from 1 small or 1/2 large lemon)
- Sprinkles: Optional, for decoration
Cook’s Kit
Before you get started, make sure you have these kitchen essentials on hand:
- Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer will work well for whipping egg whites.
- Silicone Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients gently.
- Piping Bags: For piping the macaron batter into heart shapes.
- Macaron Mat or Parchment Paper: For baking your macarons.
- Oven Thermometer: To ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.
The Method for Heart Macarons with Lemon Buttercream
Once you have your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to get baking! Follow these steps to create your delicious Heart Macarons with Lemon Buttercream:
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheets
Line your baking sheets with a macaron mat or parchment paper. If using parchment paper, you can draw heart shapes on the underside to guide your piping.
Step 2: Sift the Almond Meal and Confectioners Sugar
In a mixing bowl, sift together the almond meal and confectioners sugar. This step is crucial for achieving smooth, shiny macaron shells. Discard any larger bits left in the sifter.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
In a clean, dry bowl, add the room temperature egg whites. Using an electric mixer, whip them on medium speed until they become frothy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and increase the speed to high. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
Step 4: Add Food Coloring
Once the egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks, gently fold in the gel food coloring until evenly combined. Aim for a soft pink or red hue, depending on your preference.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add the sifted almond meal and confectioners sugar mixture to the whipped egg whites. Using a silicone spatula, gently fold the mixture until it reaches the “lava” stage, where it flows slowly off the spatula.
Step 6: Pipe the Macarons
Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe heart shapes onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave some space between each one. Tap the baking sheets gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Step 7: Let Them Rest
Allow the piped macarons to sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, or until they form a skin. You should be able to gently touch the surface without sticking to your finger.
Step 8: Preheat the Oven
While the macarons are resting, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Step 9: Bake the Macarons
Bake the macarons for 15-20 minutes, rotating the baking sheets halfway through. They are done when they have risen and formed a “foot” at the bottom.
Step 10: Cool Completely
Remove the macarons from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 11: Make the Lemon Buttercream
In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the confectioners sugar, salt, and lemon juice, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
Step 12: Fill the Macarons
Pair up the cooled macaron shells by size. Pipe a dollop of lemon buttercream onto the flat side of one shell and sandwich it with the matching shell. Optionally, add sprinkles for an extra touch.
Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas
No matter the season, these Heart Macarons with Lemon Buttercream can be adapted for any occasion:
- Spring: Decorate with pastel colors and floral-themed sprinkles.
- Summer: Incorporate fresh berries into the buttercream for a fruity twist.
- Fall: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the buttercream for a cozy flavor.
- Winter: Use peppermint extract in the buttercream for a festive touch.
Cook’s Notes
- Make sure your mixing bowl and utensils are grease-free for the best results.
- Using aged egg whites can improve the stability of your meringue.
- Don’t skip the resting time; it’s essential for the perfect macaron texture.
- Experiment with different colors and flavors for the buttercream!
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Store your filled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfilled shells for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator before filling them with buttercream.
Your Top Questions
Why are my macarons cracking?
Cracking can occur due to overmixing the batter or not allowing them to rest long enough before baking. Make sure to pipe them correctly and follow the resting time closely.
Can I use a different filling besides lemon buttercream?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fillings like chocolate ganache, raspberry buttercream, or even a classic vanilla buttercream.
What should I do if my macarons don’t have feet?
Macarons may not form feet if they are undercooked or if there was too much moisture in the batter. Ensure your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks and that your oven temperature is accurate.
How do I know when my macarons are done baking?
Macarons are done when they have a firm top and a “foot” has formed. They should not wobble when gently touched. It’s best to avoid opening the oven too frequently while they bake.
Healthy-ish Favorites
See You at the Table
Creating Heart Macarons with Lemon Buttercream is a delightful way to express your creativity and love for baking. These little treats are bound to bring smiles and joy to anyone who indulges in them. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and enjoy the process of making these charming macarons. Happy baking!
Heart Macarons with Lemon Buttercream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheets - Line your baking sheets with a macaron mat or parchment paper.
- Step 2: Sift the Almond Meal and Confectioners Sugar - Sift together in a mixing bowl, discarding larger bits.
- Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites - Whip egg whites until frothy, then gradually add granulated sugar and whip to stiff peaks.
- Step 4: Add Food Coloring - Gently fold in gel food coloring until evenly combined.
- Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients - Fold sifted mixture into the whipped egg whites until it reaches the 'lava' stage.
- Step 6: Pipe the Macarons - Transfer batter to a piping bag and pipe heart shapes onto the sheets.
- Step 7: Let Them Rest - Allow piped macarons to sit at room temp for 30-60 minutes.
- Step 8: Preheat the Oven - Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Step 9: Bake the Macarons - Bake for 15-20 minutes, rotating halfway through.
- Step 10: Cool Completely - Let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Step 11: Make the Lemon Buttercream - Beat butter, then gradually add confectioners sugar, salt, and lemon juice.
- Step 12: Fill the Macarons - Pair shells, pipe lemon buttercream, and sandwich together.
Notes
- Make sure your mixing bowl and utensils are grease-free for the best results.
- Using aged egg whites can improve the stability of your meringue.
- Don't skip the resting time; it’s essential for the perfect macaron texture.
