Valentines Treats Raspberry Macarons

Name: Valentines Treats Raspberry Macarons
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 24.0
Ingredients: 110g almond flour; 200g powdered sugar; 4 large egg whites (aged); 120g granulated sugar; Pinch of salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pink food coloring (optional); 150g fresh raspberries; 100g unsalted butter, softened; 150g powdered sugar; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I set out to create the perfect treat for Valentine's Day, I knew I had to make raspberry macarons. These delightful confections are not only beautiful but also bursting with a fresh raspberry flavor that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. As I worked through the recipe, I was amazed by how the delicate shells came together and how satisfying the filling process was. Each bite is a celebration of love and flavor, making them a wonderful gift to share with someone special.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:31:10.261Z

Making raspberry macarons has been one of my favorite baking adventures. I learned that resting the piped batter allows the shells to develop that coveted ‘foot’ and helps them achieve the perfect texture. Using fresh raspberries in the filling adds a vibrant color and flavor that truly elevates these cookies.

I found that weighing my ingredients precisely is crucial for success, especially when it comes to the almond flour and egg whites. A little extra attention goes a long way in creating beautiful macarons that have the ideal smooth surface and chewiness.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delicate and colorful treats that catch the eye
Fresh raspberry filling that adds a pop of flavor
Perfect for sharing with loved ones or at gatherings

      

Mastering Macaron Technique

Crafting the perfect macaron shells is all about precision and technique. When whisking the egg whites, aim for the stiff peak stage, where the mixture holds its shape firmly yet is glossy. This is crucial as it impacts the final texture of the macarons. If the peaks are over-whipped, your shells may crack during baking, so keep a watchful eye while mixing.

Resting the piped macaron batter is a non-negotiable step. Allow the piped circles to sit for at least 30 minutes, or until they develop a dry skin on top. This process helps form a smooth surface while baking, leading to those signature ‘feet’ and a delicate shell that contrasts beautifully with the raspberry filling. The length can vary based on humidity levels; on a humid day, you may need more time.

Choosing Ingredients Wisely

The almond flour plays a pivotal role in the texture of the macarons. For best results, use finely ground almond flour that has a good fat content, as this will provide the necessary moisture and flavor. If you or someone you're serving has nut allergies, sunflower seed flour is a suitable substitute, though it may alter the color slightly.

When selecting raspberries for the filling, opt for ones that are plump and vibrant, as these will provide the most flavor. If fresh raspberries are unavailable, you can substitute with frozen raspberries; just make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture in your filling. The quality of your butter is also essential; using high-fat unsalted butter contributes to a richer and creamier filling.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

After assembling your raspberry macarons, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and softens the shells for a delightful bite. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture experience.

These macarons are not just for sharing, but they also make an excellent treat for special occasions. Consider pairing them with a cup of tea or champagne for a perfect afternoon delight. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try different flavor variations for the filling, such as lemon curd or chocolate ganache, to cater to different tastes while keeping the shell base the same.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you begin to ensure a smooth baking process.

Macaron Shells

110g almond flour
200g powdered sugar
4 large egg whites (aged)
120g granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pink food coloring (optional)

Raspberry Filling

150g fresh raspberries
100g unsalted butter, softened
150g powdered sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

Once you've prepared your ingredients, you're ready to make delicious raspberry macarons!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results in crafting your macarons.

Prepare the Macaron Shells

In a bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form, then gradually add the granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold in the sifted almond flour mixture and vanilla extract, adding pink food coloring if desired.

Pipe the Macarons

Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip and pipe small circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Tap the baking sheet to remove air bubbles and let the macarons rest for about 30 minutes until they form a skin.

Bake the Shells

Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Bake the macarons for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are firm and can easily be lifted off the parchment paper. Let them cool completely.

Make the Raspberry Filling

In a blender, puree the fresh raspberries and strain to remove seeds. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, raspberry puree, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until combined.

Assemble the Macarons

Pair the macaron shells by size, and pipe a dollop of raspberry filling onto the flat side of one shell. Top with another shell to create a sandwich. Repeat until all are assembled.

Let the assembled macarons sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge to enhance their flavors.

Pro Tips

For best results, use aged egg whites, and be patient during the drying stage. This ensures you achieve a perfect macaron with a lovely foot.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your macaron shells turn out flat without feet, it might be due to under mixing the batter. Ensure that the batter is mixed until it flows smoothly like lava, which means that the dry ingredients are fully incorporated and there's a shiny finish. Practice the macaronage technique by gently folding until the batter ribbons off your spatula; it's essential to not overmix at this stage.

Another common issue is macarons cracking on top, often a sign of excess moisture in the batter or too high of an oven temperature. If you encounter this, check your oven calibration or consider using an oven thermometer. Also, ensure that your mixing bowls and utensils are free from any grease, as fats can hinder the egg whites from achieving the right volume.

Scaling the Recipe

For larger gatherings or gifting, you can easily scale up this recipe. To double the batch, simply maintain the same ratios of the ingredients, but be aware that increased batches may require additional baking time. Monitor the macarons closely in the oven for doneness, as they can continue cooking slightly even after being removed.

If you wish to make a smaller portion, feel free to halve the ingredients. Just keep in mind that the resting and baking times should remain as is; adjusting time based on quantity isn't usually necessary in these quantities. Making smaller batches allows for experimentation with different flavors without committing to a large quantity, perfect for testing new ideas.

Creative Serving Ideas

These raspberry macarons can be beautifully presented alongside fresh raspberries and edible flowers for a stunning dessert table display. Add a splash of color with a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to enhance their visual appeal for special occasions. Presenting them in cupcake boxes or clear bags tied with a ribbon can elevate the gifting experience.

You might also want to experiment with pairing them with different desserts—try serving them alongside a scoop of ice cream or a light fruit sorbet. The contrast between the creamy and tart flavors can be delightful, creating a multi-textural dessert experience that guests will remember.

Questions About Recipes

→ Why are my macarons cracking?

Cracking can occur if the batter is too dry or if they were baked at too high a temperature. Make sure to properly fold in the ingredients and keep an eye on the oven temperature.

→ Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

→ How do I store macarons?

Store macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to a month for longer freshness.

→ How can I tell when macarons are done baking?

Macarons are done when they are firm to the touch, and they should easily lift off the parchment paper without sticking.