Every holiday season brings a whirl of flavors, but nothing quite compares to the aroma of freshly baked Gingerbread Macarons with Spiced Buttercream wafting through the kitchen. These delicate French treats combine a festive twist of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. Not only are these macarons a perfect centerpiece for your holiday cookie platter, but they also strike the perfect balance between elegance and cozy comfort—ideal for gatherings with friends or quiet evenings with a cup of cocoa. With straightforward preparation steps and their impressive visual appeal, these macarons are sure to be a showstopper at any gathering. Curious to discover how to make these irresistible delights? Let’s jump right into the festive magic of baking!
Why Are Gingerbread Macarons Special?
Festive Delight: These gingerbread macarons are not just desserts; they capture the essence of the holiday season in every bite.
Unique Flavor Profile: Infused with warm spices like ginger and cinnamon, they offer a delightful twist on classic flavors that will have your guests raving.
Impressive Presentation: Their eye-catching design and texture make them a showstopper on any dessert table or holiday gathering.
Easy to Make: While they may look sophisticated, this recipe is designed for bakers of all levels. Just follow the simple steps!
Make Ahead: They can be assembled in advance and stored, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without stress. Try serving them with a cozy cup of hot chocolate for a warming experience!
Gingerbread Macarons Ingredients
• Experience the magic of holiday baking with these delightful gingerbread macarons!
For the Macaron Shells
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and stability in the meringue for those perfect macaron shells.
- Egg White Powder (optional) – Adds stability to the meringue; feel free to omit if needed.
- Aged Egg Whites – Achieves the ideal structure and aeration for the shells—aging them at room temperature will yield the best results.
- Almond Flour – Delivers a nutty flavor and necessary structure; consider substituting with hazelnut flour for a unique taste twist.
- Powdered Sugar – Ensures smooth macaron shells with its fine texture; don’t skip this!
- Ground Spices (Ginger, Cinnamon, Allspice, Nutmeg) – Infuses the shells with warm flavors; adjust to your spice preference for that perfect holiday taste!
- Cocoa Powder (optional) – Adds depth to the color if desired; skip it for a lighter look.
- Brown Food Coloring (gel or powder) – Enhances the visual appeal of the shells, optional based on your choice.
For the Spiced Buttercream Filling
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens the buttercream while ensuring a smooth consistency; sift it to avoid lumps!
- Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess and richness; make sure it’s softened to make mixing a breeze.
- Vanilla Extract – Boosts flavor—real vanilla extract will noticeably enhance the taste!
- Molasses – Gives that quintessential gingerbread flavor; honey can be used as a substitute, but your flavor profile will differ.
- Milk – Adjusts the consistency of the buttercream; add gradually until you achieve your desired texture.
- White Chocolate (optional) – For drizzling on finished macarons; adds a sweet touch and elegant appearance.
- Christmas Sprinkles – Optional, but these festive decorations bring extra joy to your gingerbread macarons!
With these key ingredients, you’re on your way to creating beautiful gingerbread macarons with spiced buttercream that will delight both your taste buds and your guests!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Macarons with Spiced Buttercream
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 310°F (155°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This creates a non-stick surface for your gingerbread macarons, ensuring they don’t stick during baking. While the oven is warming up, gather your ingredients and tools to streamline the process ahead.
Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the almond flour, powdered sugar, and ground spices like ginger and cinnamon. This step helps eliminate lumps, ensuring a smooth batter for your macaron shells. Set this mixture aside, as it will be combined with the meringue in later steps.
Step 3: Make the Meringue
In a heatproof bowl, combine granulated sugar with aged egg whites and place it over a pot of simmering water. Whisk the mixture until the sugar fully dissolves, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and beat with a mixer on medium-high speed for 13-15 minutes until stiff peaks form, resulting in a glossy meringue.
Step 4: Macaronage
Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the meringue using a spatula. Combine until the batter flows smoothly like lava, which should take about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to over-mix; your goal is a consistent texture without losing the meringue’s airiness, crucial for perfect gingerbread macarons.
Step 5: Pipe the Macarons
Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. On the lined baking sheets, pipe 1.5-inch circles, leaving space between each macaron. Once all are piped, tap the baking sheets gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles for that iconic macaron surface.
Step 6: Rest the Shells
Let the piped macaron shells sit at room temperature for 20-40 minutes. This resting period allows a skin to form on the surface, which helps prevent cracking during baking. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel dry to the touch but still slightly tacky.
Step 7: Bake the Macarons
Carefully place one tray of macarons in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the tops should feel firm, while the feet (the raised edge of the shells) should form properly. Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can disrupt the rising process.
Step 8: Make the Buttercream
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add in the sifted confectioners’ sugar, mixing until smooth. Incorporate the vanilla extract, molasses, and additional spices until fully combined, adjusting with milk for desired consistency, making a luscious spiced buttercream filling.
Step 9: Assemble the Macarons
Once the macaron shells are completely cooled, pipe a generous amount of spiced buttercream onto the flat side of one shell, then sandwich it with another shell. If desired, drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with festive decorations for an eye-catching finish to your gingerbread macarons.
Step 10: Allow to Rest
For optimal flavor, refrigerate the assembled macarons for 24 hours before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience. Serve them chilled or at room temperature as a delightful addition to your holiday gatherings!
What to Serve with Gingerbread Macarons with Spiced Buttercream
Create the perfect festive feast with delightful pairings that elevate your gingerbread macarons experience.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy, chocolatey notes complement the spiced buttercream seamlessly, creating a cozy pairing perfect for chilly evenings.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes serve as a comforting contrast to the sweetness of the macarons, balancing out rich flavors during a holiday meal.
- Peppermint Tea: A refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate while enhancing the gingerbread flavors in each sweet bite. It’s a wonderful pairing for a holiday gathering.
- Fruity Cheesecake: The tartness of a cheesecake provides a delightful contrast to the rich buttercream filling, enhancing the overall flavor experience of your dessert spread.
- Spiced Mulled Wine: Warm and aromatic, this drink resonates with the ginger and cinnamon in your macarons, making it an impeccable festive companion.
- Pecan Pie: Indulging in this beloved dessert after macarons adds a nutty sweetness that rounds out the holiday meal, creating a delightful sequence of flavors.
- Cinnamon Roll Cake: This sweet cake brings warmth and spice to your gathering, perfectly echoing the gingerbread theme throughout the dessert platter.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy goodness introduces a delightful contrast in temperature and texture that beautifully highlights the gingerbread flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Gingerbread Macarons with Spiced Buttercream are perfect for busy holiday planners! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 3 days in advance by simply storing them in an airtight container at room temperature, ensuring they remain crisp and fresh. The spiced buttercream filling can also be made up to 24 hours ahead—just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to preserve its smooth texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fill the macaron shells with the buttercream and assemble; allowing them to rest in the fridge for an additional 24 hours before serving enhances their flavors, making them just as delicious as fresh-baked treats!
Storage Tips for Gingerbread Macarons
Room Temperature: Store unfilled gingerbread macaron shells at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture.
Fridge: After assembling with spiced buttercream, refrigerate macarons in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This allows flavors to meld beautifully while keeping them fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled gingerbread macarons for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat macarons, as they are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. For the perfect bite, allow them to come to room temperature after freezing.
Expert Tips for Gingerbread Macarons
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Oven Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to confirm the correct temperature; slight variances can ruin the delicate texture of your gingerbread macarons.
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Weigh Your Ingredients: For the most precise results, weigh all ingredients, especially the almond flour and powdered sugar, instead of using volume measurements – it makes a world of difference!
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Sift, Sift, Sift: Always sift your almond flour and powdered sugar together to prevent lumps in the batter; a smooth macaron shell is crucial for that perfect bite.
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Monitor the Rest Time: Don’t skip the resting period after piping; it’s essential for forming the skin that helps your macarons rise nicely without cracking.
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Avoid Over-mixing: During the macaronage step, aim for a batter that flows like lava but doesn’t over-mix. A perfect consistency is key to achieving those lovely feet on your macarons.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your macarons in the oven; they should feel firm on top and have formed feet. Cracked tops usually signal too high a temperature or over-baking.
Gingerbread Macarons Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make these Gingerbread Macarons your own with these delightful twists!
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Nut-Free: Swap almond flour with sunflower seed flour for a great nut-free alternative while maintaining that delicate texture.
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and plant-based milk in the buttercream for a completely dairy-free treat that everyone can enjoy!
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Cinnamon Twist: Enhance the spice by adding an extra dash of cinnamon to the shells or buttercream to give them a warmer flavor.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder in the macaron batter to create a chocolate gingerbread macaron that will please those who crave something sweet.
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Citrusy Burst: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the buttercream for a refreshing citrusy zing, cutting through the richness of the spiced filling.
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Heat It Up: For those who like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger powder into your macaron batter for a surprising kick of flavor.
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Maple Flavor: Substitute molasses with maple syrup for a unique, sweet twist that adds a lovely caramelized note to your buttercream.
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Decorate Differently: Use crushed candy canes as a vibrant topping instead of Christmas sprinkles for a festive crunch and a touch of minty freshness.
These variations will keep your holiday baking exciting! Give them a try, and don’t forget to serve your gingerbread macarons with a warm cup of hot chocolate or, if you’re in the mood for something a little more extravagant, a glass of spiced eggnog. That might just become your new favorite pairing!
Gingerbread Macarons with Spiced Buttercream Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness of eggs for macaron shells?
When selecting eggs for gingerbread macarons, look for large eggs, and ideally, use aged egg whites. Allow your eggs to age at room temperature for at least 24 hours before using them. This aging process helps reduce moisture and creates better stability when whipping them into meringue.
How should I store baked gingerbread macarons?
After filling your gingerbread macarons, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure they’re separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking. The flavors will meld beautifully in this time, enhancing each bite!
Can I freeze gingerbread macarons?
Absolutely! To freeze assembled gingerbread macarons, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s no contact between them. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
What happens if my macarons have hollow shells?
Hollow shells often result from over-whipping the meringue, which can lead to a fragile structure. If you notice this, try reducing the whipping time next time and ensure you’re folding the dry ingredients gently during the macaronage step. This will help maintain that all-important airiness and structure.
Are these gingerbread macarons suitable for those with nut allergies?
These macarons are made with almond flour, which is not suitable for people with nut allergies. However, you can experiment with a nut-free flour substitute like oat flour or a gluten-free blend to create a similar texture. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, but they can still be festive!
Can I use different spices in the buttercream?
Very much! While the recipe calls for traditional ginger and cinnamon, feel free to play around with your favorite spices. A dash of cardamom or a sprinkle of nutmeg can create exciting flavor combinations that will truly personalize your gingerbread macarons.
Gingerbread Macarons with Spiced Buttercream to Wow Your Guests
Equipment
- Mixer
- Piping bag
- Oven
- Baking sheets
- Parchment Paper
- Sifter
- Heatproof Bowl
Ingredients
Macaron Shells
- 100 g Granulated Sugar
- 4 g Egg White Powder optional
- 90 g Aged Egg Whites
- 120 g Almond Flour or hazelnut flour
- 200 g Powdered Sugar
- 1 tsp Ground Spices (Ginger, Cinnamon, Allspice, Nutmeg) adjust to taste
- 15 g Cocoa Powder optional
- 1 tsp Brown Food Coloring optional
Spiced Buttercream Filling
- 200 g Confectioners’ Sugar sifted
- 100 g Unsalted Butter softened
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract real recommended
- 1 tbsp Molasses or honey as substitute
- 2 tbsp Milk add gradually
- 50 g White Chocolate optional, for drizzling
- 1 tbsp Christmas Sprinkles optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 310°F (155°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Sift together the almond flour, powdered sugar, and ground spices.
- Combine granulated sugar with aged egg whites in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, whisk until dissolved, then beat until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the meringue until the batter flows smoothly.
- Pipe 1.5-inch circles on lined baking sheets and let rest for 20-40 minutes.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until tops are firm and feet are formed.
- Make the spiced buttercream by beating softened butter, then add sifted confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, molasses, and milk to achieve desired consistency.
- Once shells are cooled, pipe buttercream on one shell and sandwich with another.
- Refrigerate assembled macarons for 24 hours before serving to enhance flavors.