Strawberry Rose Macarons
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love making Strawberry Rose Macarons because they combine my favorite flavors into one delightful treat. The delicate almond shells paired with the sweet strawberry and subtle rosewater filling create a taste that's both unique and refreshing. Each bite is a little piece of heaven that elevates any occasion. Whether it's for a special celebration or just because, these macarons never fail to impress. Plus, they look so beautiful that they make the perfect gift for loved ones or simply a treat for myself!
When I first attempted to make Strawberry Rose Macarons, I was amazed at how the combination of flavors transformed a traditional treat into something extraordinary. The hint of rosewater enhances the natural sweetness of strawberries and gives these macarons a sophisticated twist. I found that adding the rosewater gradually allows me to find the perfect balance without overpowering the strawberries.
Through trial and error, I discovered that aging my egg whites for a day really helps in achieving that perfect meringue texture. It's worth the wait! Watching the macarons rise and develop the iconic 'feet' brings me so much joy, making the effort truly rewarding.
Why You'll Love These Macarons
- Exquisite combination of fresh strawberries and fragrant rosewater
- Delicate and chewy texture that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea
- Visually stunning, perfect for gifts or special events
Mastering the Macaron Technique
Achieving the perfect macaron shell requires precision in both technique and timing. When aging egg whites, let them sit uncovered at room temperature for at least 24 hours; this helps to dehydrate the whites, yielding a less aerated batter that results in smooth, glossy shells. Be careful not to overbeat your egg whites; you are looking for stiff peaks that hold their shape without becoming dry and grainy. The batter should flow like a thick ribbon when folded together, which will ensure delicate yet chewy macarons.
A common challenge when making macarons is achieving the iconic "foot" around the base. This occurs when the batter spreads evenly and stabilizes as it bakes. To help this process, make sure to tap the baking sheet firmly after piping to release any trapped air bubbles. Keep an eye on your macarons as they bake; they should rise slightly and form a dry skin. If they start to crack, your oven may be too hot, so consider lowering the temperature by 10-15°F.
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
Incorporating fresh strawberry puree into the filling not only adds a natural sweetness but also provides a vibrant color and fresh flavor profile. For the best results, use ripe, seasonal strawberries to maximize sweetness. Should fresh strawberries be unavailable, a good-quality frozen alternative can be used—just ensure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before pureeing. This adjustment can help maintain the desired creamy consistency of the filling without excess liquid that could leak out of the macarons.
Rosewater can be potent, so start with the specified amount and adjust to taste; a little goes a long way! If you’re looking for a different floral note, consider substituting with other flavorings like orange blossom or lavender—just be cautious and ensure that any substitutions harmonize with the strawberry flavor. The filling's texture is crucial too; achieving the right creaminess can be managed by making sure your butter is thoroughly softened to room temperature before creaming, which allows for better incorporation and fluffiness.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delectable Strawberry Rose Macarons:
Macaron Shells
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup almond flour
- 3 large egg whites, aged
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Pink food coloring (optional)
Filling
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon rosewater
- Pinch of salt
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your perfect Strawberry Rose Macarons:
Prepare the Macaron Batter
In a bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and almond flour. In a separate bowl, beat the aged egg whites until foamy, then add cream of tartar. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Fold in the dry ingredients gently. If desired, add pink food coloring for a pastel hue.
Pipe the Macarons
Transfer the macaron batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pipe 1.5-inch circles, leaving space between each. Tap the baking sheet on the counter to release air bubbles, then let them sit for 30-60 minutes to form a skin.
Bake the Macarons
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 15 minutes or until they easily lift off the parchment. Let them cool before removing.
Make the Strawberry Rose Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, rosewater, and salt until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Macarons
Pair the cooled macaron shells. Pipe filling onto the bottom of one shell and sandwich with the other. Repeat until all are filled. Let them rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving for optimal flavor.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Strawberry Rose Macarons!
Pro Tips
- For best results, ensure that your bowl and utensils are completely clean and dry when making the meringue. This will help achieve the best rise and texture for your macarons.
Storage Tips
Macarons are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's a good idea to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you plan to keep them longer, consider freezing the filled macarons. Just ensure they are in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, as they can get a bit fragile. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours to restore their texture without condensation.
For those planning to make macarons in advance for an event, consider baking the shells first and freezing them unfilled. Once thawed, you can fill them with the strawberry rose filling the day before your event. This keeps the shell crisp while allowing the flavors of the filling to meld beautifully as they sit together in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These Strawberry Rose Macarons not only taste divine but they also make for a stunning presentation. Consider serving them on a decorative plate alongside a selection of teas or coffees to complement the flavors. Their delicate nature pairs beautifully with light fare, making them suitable for afternoon tea gatherings or as a delightful ending to a summer dinner party. You could even present them atop a tiered cake stand for an elegant touch.
To appeal to a wider audience, think about offering them in assortments with other flavors. Pair these floral delights with chocolate or citrus macarons for a vibrant contrast in taste and appearance. Alternatively, you could dip the completed macarons in white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed freeze-dried strawberries for an extra flair that adds another layer of flavor and texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute the strawberries with other fruits?
Yes, you can use other fruits like raspberries or mangoes, but ensure they are pureed and do not contain excess liquid.
→ How can I store the macarons?
Store the filled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen unfilled for up to 2 months.
→ What can I do if my macarons crack during baking?
Cracking can be caused by overmixing the batter or by insufficient drying time before baking. Make sure the shell is dry to the touch before baking.
→ Is it necessary to age the egg whites?
While not mandatory, aging egg whites helps create a more stable meringue, leading to better textures in the finished macarons.
Strawberry Rose Macarons
I love making Strawberry Rose Macarons because they combine my favorite flavors into one delightful treat. The delicate almond shells paired with the sweet strawberry and subtle rosewater filling create a taste that's both unique and refreshing. Each bite is a little piece of heaven that elevates any occasion. Whether it's for a special celebration or just because, these macarons never fail to impress. Plus, they look so beautiful that they make the perfect gift for loved ones or simply a treat for myself!
Created by: Katherine Blake
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 macarons
What You'll Need
Macaron Shells
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup almond flour
- 3 large egg whites, aged
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Pink food coloring (optional)
Filling
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon rosewater
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and almond flour. In a separate bowl, beat the aged egg whites until foamy, then add cream of tartar. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Fold in the dry ingredients gently. If desired, add pink food coloring for a pastel hue.
Transfer the macaron batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pipe 1.5-inch circles, leaving space between each. Tap the baking sheet on the counter to release air bubbles, then let them sit for 30-60 minutes to form a skin.
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 15 minutes or until they easily lift off the parchment. Let them cool before removing.
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, rosewater, and salt until smooth and fluffy.
Pair the cooled macaron shells. Pipe filling onto the bottom of one shell and sandwich with the other. Repeat until all are filled. Let them rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving for optimal flavor.
Extra Tips
- For best results, ensure that your bowl and utensils are completely clean and dry when making the meringue. This will help achieve the best rise and texture for your macarons.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 3g