There’s a delightful moment when the rich, velvety scent of cocoa mingles with the creamy sweetness of mascarpone, and suddenly, I’m whisked away to a world of indulgence. These Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting are not just another dessert; they’re a special treat that transforms any occasion into a celebration. I stumbled upon this exquisite recipe while searching for a way to impress friends at a gathering—little did I know I was about to unlock a game-changer for my home baking!
As I unearth each meticulously crafted macaron, the vibrant red color and shiny shell beckon like a siren’s call, promising a delightful crunch followed by a soft, creamy center. The best part? This impressive-looking dessert is surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re looking to shake off the fast-food routine or impress your loved ones with a sweet homemade creation, these macarons are sure to be the star of your table. Grab your piping bag, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why Are Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting So Irresistible?
Decadence Awaits: These macarons combine the elegance of a classic French dessert with the rich, comforting flavor of red velvet.
Easy Yet Impressive: You don’t need to be a pro baker; simple steps lead to fabulous results!
Colorful Presentation: Their vibrant red hue makes them perfect for celebrations and gatherings, instantly elevating your dessert table.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy them as a sweet treat for any occasion or pair them with your favorite coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Creamy Center: The mascarpone frosting adds a luscious richness that balances the chewy macaron shell beautifully.
So, if you’re ready to impress your friends and family with simple baking techniques, these macarons are the perfect, show-stopping addition to your dessert repertoire!
Red Velvet Macarons Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells
• 130 g powdered sugar – Helps create the smooth texture essential for the perfect macaron shell.
• 120 g almond flour – Gives the macarons their distinctive chewiness; don’t substitute with regular flour!
• 7 g cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor that complements the red velvet beautifully.
• 105 g egg whites – Essential for achieving that iconic meringue base; ensure they’re at room temperature
• 100 g granulated sugar – Stabilizes the egg whites and contributes to the shell’s glossy finish.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste – Enhances flavor and adds a subtle depth to the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon red food gel – Provides that vibrant red hue; make sure to use gel for the best color!
For the Mascarpone Frosting
• 113 g heavy cream, cold – Whipped to add lightness and richness to your frosting.
• 50 g granulated sugar – Sweetens the mascarpone without overpowering the other flavors.
• 113 g mascarpone, cold – The star of the frosting, offering a creamy, decadent texture.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla paste – Infuses delightful vanilla notes, enhancing the overall creaminess.
Get ready to savor every bite of these wonderfully crafted Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting!
How to Make Red Velvet Macarons
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Prepare the Template: Start by tracing a heart-shaped cookie cutter about 2 inches apart on a sheet of parchment paper. Place this template under another piece of parchment paper to guide your piping later.
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Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the powdered sugar, almond flour, and cocoa powder twice. This ensures a light and airy batter, critical for those perfect macaron shells.
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Heat Egg Whites: In a double boiler, gently heat the egg whites and granulated sugar until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 120°F. This helps create a shiny meringue!
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Whisk the Meringue: Transfer the egg white mixture to a large bowl or stand mixer. Whisk until soft peaks form, then add the vanilla paste and red food gel for that beautiful color and flavor.
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Achieve Stiff Peaks: Continue to whisk until stiff peaks form. To test, turn the bowl upside down—if the meringue doesn’t budge, you’re good to go!
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Start Macaronage: Gently fold in ⅓ of the dry ingredient mixture with a silicone spatula until mostly combined. The goal here is to be gentle—no over-mixing!
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Finalize the Batter: Add the remaining dry ingredients and fold carefully with the spatula. Deflate the batter slightly against the bowl. It’s ready when you can draw figure eights without breaking.
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Pipe the Macarons: Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. Pipe the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, following your template for uniformity.
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Rest the Macarons: Allow the piped macarons to rest for about 30-40 minutes, or until they feel dry to the touch. This step helps form that iconic crust!
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Preheat the Oven: Toward the end of the resting time, don’t forget to preheat your oven to 300°F; we want it nice and hot for baking!
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Bake and Cool: Bake the macarons for around 12 minutes. Be gentle when removing them from the baking sheet to let them cool completely.
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Make the Frosting: In a stand mixer, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, mascarpone, and vanilla. Whisk on low until combined, then increase to medium-high speed for about 30 seconds until thick.
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Assemble the Macarons: Pair up the macaron shells and pipe the mascarpone frosting onto the bottom of one shell. Gently press the paired shell on top, creating little sandwiches of joy!
Optional: Dust with cocoa powder for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these macarons for a delightful twist on the classic recipe!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute almond flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a delicious alternative.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed flour instead of almond flour to make these nut-free, perfect for those with allergies.
- Different Colors: Replace red food gel with any food coloring to create macarons in your favorite shades, ideal for different occasions.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add chunks of dark chocolate to the mascarpone frosting for a rich, indulgent version that will satisfy any chocolate craving.
- Fruit Infusion: Mix in some raspberry puree into the frosting for a tangy twist that beautifully complements the sweetness of the macarons.
- Spice it Up: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm spice note that elevates the flavor profile.
- Savory Surprise: Introduce a dash of sea salt in the frosting for a salted caramel flavor that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Coconut Dream: Incorporate shredded unsweetened coconut into the frosting for added texture and a tropical twist.
Each of these variations opens up a world of creative possibilities for your Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting, so don’t hesitate to experiment and make them uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance by piping and then refrigerating them on a baking sheet covered loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. The mascarpone frosting can also be made up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove the shells from the fridge, pair them up, and pipe the frosting in between. The macarons will be just as delightful and fresh, making your dessert preparation a breeze for busy weeknights or special occasions!
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Macarons
Room Temperature: Store your macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will keep them soft and chewy.
Fridge: If you need them to last longer, refrigerate the macarons in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The cool will enhance their flavors!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the filled macarons in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: If you’re enjoying leftover shells, let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture of your delightful Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting?
Creating a delightful dessert experience is all about complementary flavors and textures, so let’s elevate these macarons to the next level!
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Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy sweetness of hot chocolate beautifully harmonizes with the velvety flavor of the macarons. It’s a perfect balance!
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing tartness that contrasts magnificently with the sweetness of the macarons. The burst of flavor adds a lovely touch!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully—its coolness contrasts with the delightful soft center of the macaron. The ultimate indulgence!
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Charcuterie Board: Include a selection of cheeses and dried fruits for a unique serving option that enhances the flavors of your macarons. Pairing the sweet with savory creates a gourmet experience.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly adds a festive sparkle, perfectly complementing the sun-kissed hue of the macarons—perfect for celebrations!
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Coffee or Espresso: The dark, rich notes of coffee create a perfect match, balancing the sweetness of the macarons while bringing out their flavors. An irresistible duo!
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Chocolate Ganache Dip: A side of warm chocolate ganache for dipping transforms the macarons into a decadent treat, providing an extra layer of luxurious chocolate flavor.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The flavors of fresh strawberries and luscious chocolate add an elegant touch while fitting into the festive vibe of your dessert table.
These pairings will ensure that your Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting star on every table and leave everyone craving more!
Tips for the Best Red Velvet Macarons
- Proper Egg Whites: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature; this helps them whip up to their full volume for a perfect meringue.
- Sifting is Key: Don’t skip the sifting step for your dry ingredients. It’s essential for achieving the smooth texture characteristic of ideal macaron shells.
- Deflate Gently: When folding in the dry ingredients, be cautious not to over-mix. You want to avoid deflating the batter too much—just enough to blend.
- Rest Time Matters: Allow the piped macarons to rest until they are dry to touch before baking; this will help form that delightful crispy shell we all love.
- Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is accurately preheated. An oven thermometer can help maintain the right temperature, which is crucial for even baking of your Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting.
Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ingredients for my Red Velvet Macarons?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, ensure that your almond flour is finely ground for smooth macarons. The powdered sugar should be soft and fluffy; any lumps can affect the texture. For the red food gel, avoid liquid versions, as gel provides a more vibrant color without adding extra moisture. Fresh egg whites, ideally at room temperature, will whip better and create a stable meringue.
How should I store leftover Red Velvet Macarons?
You can store your macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain that delightful chewiness. However, if you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them in a container for about 5 days. The cool environment helps enhance the flavors as they meld together beautifully!
Can I freeze Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your filled macarons, first, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. Freeze them for about 1 to 2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer the macarons to an airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers, and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight for optimal taste and texture.
What are some common issues while making macarons and how can I fix them?
Very good question! A common issue is “feet” not forming, which can be due to under or over-mixing the batter. The batter should fall from the spatula like lava and form a smooth ribbon. If your shells crack or are hollow, it could mean the meringue was over-whipped or the oven temperature was too high. I recommend using an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures.
Are Red Velvet Macarons safe for those with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, these macarons contain almond flour, which is not safe for those with nut allergies. You could try substituting the almond flour with a nut-free option like sunflower seed flour, though the texture and flavor might vary slightly. Always consult with those you’re serving to ensure they feel comfortable and safe enjoying these delectable treats.
What can I do if I have leftover mascarpone frosting?
If you have extra mascarpone frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also use it as a delightful dip for fruits or even spread it on toast or pancakes for an indulgent breakfast! Alternatively, freeze it in small portions for easier use later on—just thaw in the fridge before using!
Decadent Red Velvet Macarons with Mascarpone Frosting Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare by tracing a heart-shaped cookie cutter about 2 inches apart on parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, sift together powdered sugar, almond flour, and cocoa powder twice.
- In a double boiler, gently heat the egg whites and granulated sugar until the sugar dissolves and reaches 120°F.
- Transfer mixture to a stand mixer and whip until soft peaks form, then add vanilla paste and red food gel.
- Continue to whisk until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in ⅓ of the dry ingredient mixture until mostly combined.
- Add the remaining dry ingredients and fold carefully with the spatula.
- Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.
- Pipe the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Allow the piped macarons to rest for about 30-40 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 300°F.
- Bake the macarons for around 12 minutes and then cool completely.
- In a stand mixer, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, mascarpone, and vanilla; whisk until thick.
- Pair up the macaron shells, pipe the frosting onto one shell, and press the paired shell on top.