I can hardly contain my excitement when I think about red velvet macarons with cream cheese filling! These little beauties are not just a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. I remember the first time I made them; it was for a friend’s birthday party, and I was absolutely glowing when I pulled them out of the oven. The vibrant red color, the delicate shells, and that decadent cream cheese filling just bring so much joy. Plus, they were such a hit! Everyone kept asking for the recipe, and I felt like a proud parent.
The combination of the classic red velvet flavor with the gentle tang of cream cheese frosting takes these macarons to another level. They are perfect for any occasion – from birthdays to holidays or just a sweet treat to brighten your day. Let me walk you through how to make these exquisite treats!
What’s in Red Velvet Macarons with Cream Cheese Filling?
Almond Flour: This is what gives macarons their signature chewy texture. I always opt for finely sifted almond flour for the best results.
Icing Sugar: This adds sweetness to our cookies and helps to achieve the delicate texture that macarons are famous for. Make sure to sift it to avoid any lumps.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder not only adds that rich chocolatey flavor that we associate with red velvet, but it also gives the macarons their beautiful hue.
Egg Whites: The magic ingredient for achieving that lovely meringue texture! Age them in the fridge for a few days for best results.
Granulated Sugar: This is mixed with the egg whites to create a stable meringue. A little goes a long way!
Red Food Coloring: Of course, we must have that glorious deep red color! I love using gel food coloring as it provides vibrant color without adding too much liquid.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness!
Heavy Cream Cheese: The star of the filling! Cream cheese gives our macarons that delightful tang and creamy texture.
Butter: Used in the filling for that extra richness. I prefer unsalted butter so I can control the flavor better.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens up the cream cheese filling and helps it maintain structure.
Is Red Velvet Macarons with Cream Cheese Filling Good for You?
Well, let’s be honest, these aren’t superfoods! But hey, that’s okay because treats are meant to be enjoyed!
Almond Flour: Packed with healthy fats and protein, almond flour can be a healthier alternative to regular flour.
Cream Cheese: While delicious, it does have its share of fat, so moderation is key here. That said, cream cheese does contain calcium and vitamin A.
As with any dessert, it’s all about balance. Enjoying these macarons in moderation is totally fine, and they can provide a little joy into your day, which, let’s be real, is priceless!
Ingredients List
– 1 ¾ cups almond flour
– 1 ¼ cups icing sugar
– 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
– 3 large egg whites (aged)
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel)
– Pinch of salt
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
– 8 ounces heavy cream cheese (softened)
– ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This recipe yields about 20-24 macarons, depending on size.
How to Make Red Velvet Macarons with Cream Cheese Filling?
1. **Prep Your Ingredients**: Start by sifting together the almond flour, icing sugar, and cocoa powder into a large bowl. This helps eliminate lumps and gives your macarons a smoother finish.
2. **Make the Meringue**: In a clean mixing bowl, whip the egg whites and a pinch of salt until they foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue whisking until stiff peaks form. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Add Color**: Gently fold in the red food coloring until evenly combined, making sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.
4. **Combine the Mixtures**: Add the dry ingredients to the meringue in three parts. Use a spatula to gently fold until you achieve a ribbon-like batter that flows smoothly when dropped from the spatula. Do not overmix!
5. **Pipe the Shells**: Transfer your batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe circular shapes onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Tap the sheets against the counter gently to eliminate any air bubbles.
6. **Rest**: Let the piped macarons sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes. This will create a skin that helps achieve that iconic macaron foot.
7. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for about 15-18 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through. They should have a smooth shell and no cracking.
8. **Cool**: Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
9. **Make the Filling**: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and fluffy.
10. **Assemble**: Once the shells are completely cool, pair them up and pipe a generous amount of cream cheese filling onto one side before sandwiching with the other.
Delicious Tips for Your Macaron Adventure
– **Aging Egg Whites**: Believe me when I say that letting your egg whites sit for a few days makes a significant difference. It helps them whisk up better!
– **Experiment with Colors**: While red velvet is a classic, feel free to experiment with colors and flavors. You can use different food colorings to create a fun rainbow selection!
– **Storage**: These macarons are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 5 days.
I just know you’re going to love making these Red Velvet Macarons with Cream Cheese Filling as much as I do. They’re fun, adorable, and a treat that no one can resist! When you give them a try, please share your experience. I’d love to know how they turn out for you! Happy baking!