French Desserts > French Macarons > French Vanilla Macarons

Vanilla Heart-Shaped Macarons Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2/3 cup almond flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2-3 drops of pink food coloring

Special Equipment Needed:
- 2 baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Heart-shaped cookie cutter
- Piping bag

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. In a medium bowl, combine almond flour and powdered sugar.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
5. Gradually add the granulated sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form.
6. Gently fold in the almond flour mixture until combined.
7. Add the vanilla extract and food coloring and mix until combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
9. Pipe the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets in the shape of hearts.
10. Tap the baking sheets on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the macarons are lightly golden.
12. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature: 300°F (150°C)
Serving Size: Makes about 12 macarons

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 80
Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 2g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Almond flour: can be substituted with hazelnut flour or coconut flour.
- Powdered sugar: can be substituted with granulated sugar.
- Cream of tartar: can be substituted with white vinegar or lemon juice.

Variations:
- Chocolate macarons: substitute the almond flour with cocoa powder.
- Coffee macarons: add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee to the almond flour mixture.
- Matcha macarons: add 1 teaspoon of matcha powder to the almond flour mixture.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to sift the almond flour and powdered sugar to avoid lumps.
- Make sure to whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Make sure to pipe the mixture onto the baking sheet in the shape of hearts.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the macarons on a platter with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts.

Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot tea or a glass of cold milk.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the macarons are not forming the desired shape, make sure to pipe the mixture onto the baking sheet in the shape of hearts.
- If the macarons are not cooked through, bake for a few minutes longer.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using.

Food History:
Macarons are believed to have originated in Italy in the 16th century.

Flavor Profiles:
Vanilla macarons have a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of vanilla.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.

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Region: French

Taste: Sweet, Vanilla, Nutty, Crispy, Light