As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of toasted almonds wafted through the air, and I felt an irresistible pull toward a classic French indulgence: vegan macarons. These delightful treats, made with aquafaba in place of eggs, offer a soft, chewy texture that’s hard to resist and an eggless twist on the traditional favorite. With a vibrant buttercream filling and beautifully colored shells, they promise to be a show-stopping dessert for any occasion. Not only do they make for a stunning centerpiece, but they’re also surprisingly simple to craft, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Plus, they’re a wonderful way to impress friends and family while being completely plant-based. Curious about how to create these adorable bites of joy? Let’s dive into the world of French vegan macarons!
Why Make Vegan Macarons?
Delightfully Unique: These vegan macarons showcase a classic French dessert with a modern twist, perfect for impressing guests or indulging solo.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their colorful, whimsical appearance makes them an instant hit at any gathering.
Simple to Create: With the right preparation, this recipe is friendly for both beginners and baking aficionados.
Flavor Versatility: Customize the buttercream filling with endless flavors—think matcha, raspberry, or vanilla.
Healthier Indulgence: Enjoy the joy of macarons without eggs, making it a perfect option for vegans or those with egg allergies.
If you’re excited to try more plant-based delights, you might also love creating Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread, blending flavors you adore into one scrumptious treat!
Vegan Macaron Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells
• Aquafaba – Acts as the perfect egg white substitute for light, airy macarons; ensure it’s reduced for best results.
• Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes the aquafaba to help achieve those lovely stiff peaks.
• Caster Sugar – A fine sugar that helps create a glossy finish when whipped with aquafaba.
• Ground Almonds – Adds both flavor and structure; use finely ground for the best texture.
• Icing Sugar – Sweetens the macaron shells and contributes to their delicate texture.
For the Buttercream Filling
• Vegan Margarine – Creates a smooth and creamy buttercream to sandwich between the macaron shells.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely flavor enhancement to your buttercream filling.
• Plant-Based Milk – Optional, but it helps to loosen the buttercream if it’s too thick.
With these ingredients, you’re just steps away from whipping up some stunning vegan macarons that will wow your taste buds! Enjoy the process and the delightful results.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Macarons
Step 1: Prep Aquafaba
Begin by weighing and pouring the liquid from two cans of chickpeas into a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer the aquafaba until it’s reduced by half, typically around 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, allow it to cool and then refrigerate overnight for best whipping results.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
As your aquafaba chills in the fridge, preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) or 130°C (275°F) for fan ovens. This temperature is crucial for ensuring your Vegan Macarons bake evenly and develop their signature texture. Prepare two non-stick baking sheets lined with parchment paper for piping later.
Step 3: Whip Aquafaba
In a large, clean mixing bowl, extract your chilled aquafaba and add a pinch of cream of tartar. Using an electric mixer, whip the aquafaba on medium-high speed until frothy, then gradually add caster sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Continue whipping until you achieve stiff peaks, usually around 10 minutes; the mixture should be glossy and hold its shape.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the ground almonds and icing sugar, ensuring no lumps remain. Carefully fold the dry mixture into the whipped aquafaba in two batches using a spatula, working gently to maintain the airiness of the meringue. Stop folding when the batter flows smoothly and meets the figure of eight test.
Step 5: Pipe Macarons
Fill a piping bag fitted with a round nozzle and pipe 2-inch circles onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each macaron. Once piped, let the macarons sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes until a skin forms on the surface, and they can be lightly touched without leaving residue.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the macarons for about 18 minutes. After baking, check their doneness by gently wiggling the shells; they should not wobble. If they’re firm to the touch, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the sheets.
Step 7: Cool and Pair
Once fully cooled, carefully peel the macaron shells off the parchment paper. Take your time to ensure they remain intact. Match up similar-sized shells to prepare for the buttercream filling, creating pairs that will form the delightful Vegan Macarons.
Step 8: Make Buttercream
In a mixing bowl, combine the icing sugar and vegan margarine, mixing until creamy and thick. Add vanilla extract for flavor, and if the buttercream is too thick, stir in plant-based milk, just a teaspoon at a time, until you reach a smooth and spreadable consistency.
Step 9: Assemble
To assemble your Vegan Macarons, pipe a dollop of buttercream onto the flat side of one macaron shell, then gently press another shell on top to create a sandwich. Repeat until all pairs are filled, then store your beautiful creations in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.
Storage Tips for Vegan Macarons
Fridge: Keep your vegan macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will help maintain their soft texture and prevent them from drying out.
Room Temperature: For the best flavor and texture, allow the macarons to sit at room temperature for about 15–30 minutes before serving. This enhances their soft chewiness.
Freezer: If you want to store them longer, freeze the assembled vegan macarons in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: Unlike typical desserts, vegan macarons shouldn’t be reheated. Serve them fresh and at room temperature for the best experience.
What to Serve with Vegan Macarons?
These stunning treats not only steal the show as an exquisite dessert but also pair beautifully with various accompaniments, enhancing your experience.
- Earl Grey Tea: The floral notes of this classic tea complement the delicate flavors of the macarons, creating a serene afternoon experience.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A rich, bitter contrast to the sweet macarons, it adds an indulgent flair that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries offer a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the macarons perfectly. The vibrant colors also elevate the visual appeal.
- Vanilla Almond Milk: A creamy, nutty drink that harmonizes with the macaron’s flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Coconut Panna Cotta: This silky dessert carries tropical notes that gracefully complement the dreamy textures of the macarons. Perfect for a more extravagant dinner party.
- Chai Latte: The spiced warmth of chai brings depth and comfort, showcasing the macarons’ unique eggless charm alongside.
- Lemon Sorbet: Clean and zesty, this dessert cleanses the palate and highlights the subtle nuances in the macarons.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing, fizzy drink that adds a crisp contrast to the sweet macarons, keeping the party lively and cheerful.
- Chocolate-Covered Coffee Beans: For a sophisticated combo, these little bites add a caffeine kick that pairs well with the macarons’ sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Macarons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the aquafaba and let it reduce up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it whips beautifully for that perfect meringue. Additionally, the macaron shells can be piped and left to dry at room temperature, then baked later within 3 days for optimal freshness. To maintain their delightful texture, make sure to store the assembled macarons in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 days before serving. When ready to enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes—this will enhance their flavor and softness, allowing you to savor these stunning Vegan Macarons with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Vegan Macarons
- Aquafaba First: Ensure your aquafaba is well-reduced before use; this is key to achieving the right texture in vegan macarons.
- Clean Tools: Scrub all bowls and utensils thoroughly to avoid any grease, as just a little fat can sabotage your meringue stability.
- Mix with Care: Be gentle when folding in the dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to flat macarons, so check for the figure of 8 test.
- Oven Reliability: Use an oven thermometer to verify your baking temperature, as imperfect oven heat can ruin your delicate vegan macarons.
- Perfectly Chilled: Chill your aquafaba overnight for maximum volume; this will help in whipping it to the perfect peaks needed for successful macarons.
Vegan Macarons Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your vegan macarons even more special, enhancing flavors and textures just the way you love!
- Nut-Free: Substitute ground almonds with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free version. These will still retain a delicate texture while being allergy-friendly.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients (about 2 tablespoons) for chocolate-flavored shells, creating a rich contrast with vanilla buttercream. Imagine the delicious depth when paired with a rich ganache or a vibrant fruit filling!
- Fruit Infusion: Use fruit powders like freeze-dried raspberry or matcha to color and flavor your shells. This not only adds a natural hue but also an exciting taste that complements the buttercream.
- Spicy Twist: Fold in a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of chili powder into the buttercream for a warm, surprising flavor kick. It’s a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the macarons.
- Colorful Creations: Use natural food coloring or beet powder to brighten your macarons without artificial additives, making your platter stunningly vibrant and inviting.
- Curd Filling: Swap out the buttercream and try a lemon or passion fruit curd for a zesty filling that adds a fresh twist. The bright, tangy finish will leave everyone wanting more!
- Tropical Vibes: Mix coconut cream into the buttercream for a creamy tropical flavor that transports your taste buds to a summer paradise.
And for a fun twist on classic flavors, don’t forget to explore baking a delightful Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread, showcasing how flavor combinations can add another layer of joy to your baking adventures!
Vegan Macarons Recipe FAQs
How should I select aquafaba for the vegan macarons?
Absolutely! When choosing aquafaba, I recommend using the liquid from canned chickpeas, as it tends to whip up beautifully. Look for chickpeas in BPA-free cans if possible, as this ensures a cleaner taste. Also, skip the jars that contain added preservatives—pure, simple aquafaba is best!
What is the best way to store vegan macarons?
Store your vegan macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To enjoy the best texture and flavor, let them sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before serving. They can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving!
Can I freeze vegan macarons? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze your vegan macarons, neatly arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe airtight container, ensuring they do not touch to maintain their shape. They can be stored this way for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer them to the fridge overnight for a gentle thaw.
What if my aquafaba doesn’t whip properly?
Very! If your aquafaba isn’t whipping up to stiff peaks, first double-check that your mixing bowl and utensils are absolutely clean—any grease can hinder the whipping process. If it’s still not whipping up, the aquafaba might not have been reduced enough, so try simmering it down even more until it’s thick. If all else fails, you can try add a tiny pinch of cream of tartar to help stabilize the mixture.
Are vegan macarons safe for people with allergies?
Absolutely! Vegan macarons contain no eggs or dairy, making them a suitable choice for those with egg allergies or lactose intolerance. However, they do contain nuts (from ground almonds), so ensure to communicate this to anyone with nut allergies. Enjoy the satisfaction of a delightful dessert that accommodates various dietary needs!
Delicious Vegan Macarons That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by weighing and pouring the liquid from two cans of chickpeas into a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer the aquafaba until it's reduced by half, around 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow it to cool and then refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) or 130°C (275°F) for fan ovens. Prepare two non-stick baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, extract your chilled aquafaba and add a pinch of cream of tartar. Whip with an electric mixer until frothy, gradually adding caster sugar until you achieve stiff peaks.
- In a separate bowl, sift together ground almonds and icing sugar. Carefully fold the dry mixture into the whipped aquafaba in two batches, working gently to maintain airiness.
- Fill a piping bag and pipe 2-inch circles onto the baking sheets, leaving space between each macaron. Let sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes until a skin forms.
- Bake the macarons for about 18 minutes. Check doneness by gently wiggling the shells; they should not wobble.
- Once cooled, carefully peel the macaron shells off the parchment paper and pair similar-sized shells.
- In a mixing bowl, combine icing sugar and vegan margarine, mixing until creamy. Add vanilla for flavor and stir in plant-based milk if too thick.
- To assemble, pipe buttercream onto one macaron shell and press another shell on top. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
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