Introduction to S’mores French Macarons
Welcome, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a delightful treat that can wow friends and family without taking up your entire day. That’s where my S’mores French Macarons come in! These little delights are a playful twist on the classic campfire treat, combining chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers in an elegant dessert form. Perfect for a quick solution on a busy day, or even an impressive finale at your next gathering, these macarons are sure to make you the star of the show—and the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This S’mores French Macarons
Let me tell you why these S’mores French Macarons hold a special place in my heart! They’re easier to make than you might think, even for busy folks like us. The taste? Absolutely divine! The perfect balance of chocolate richness, marshmallow fluff, and crunchy graham cracker is simply irresistible. Plus, these macarons come together in no time, making them an ideal treat for unexpected guests or a sweet reward after a long day.
Ingredients for S’mores French Macarons
Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for crafting these delightful S’mores French Macarons! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Egg whites: The foundation of the macaron; they create that signature airy texture.
- Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a smooth surface.
- Almond flour: The star of the show; fine ground contributes to the delicate nature of macarons.
- Cocoa powder: Provides that rich chocolate flavor to the shells.
- Cream of tartar: This stabilizer aids in whipping the egg whites to perfection.
- Unsalted butter: A key ingredient in the filling for that creamy consistency.
- Marshmallow fluff: The gooey goodness that brings the S’mores experience to life!
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Cornstarch: Helps the filling maintain a lovely texture and stability.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Milk or cream: A splash adds richness to the filling.
- Chocolate powder: Can be added for an extra chocolatey touch—delicious!
- Graham crackers: Crushed for that unmistakable crunchy texture and taste of a classic S’more.
- Tiny dehydrated marshmallow bits: Optional, but they add a cute touch to your macarons!
Complete measurements for these ingredients are at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. So, if you’re eager to dive into this sweet adventure, you know exactly what to grab!
How to Make S’mores French Macarons
Making S’mores French Macarons is a joyful journey filled with sweet anticipation. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of heavenly treats!
Preparing the Chocolate Ganache
Start with your chocolate. Finely chop it into small pieces and place them in a large, heat-safe bowl. Next, heat some heavy cream in the microwave until it’s steaming but not boiling.
Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes. This allows the chocolate to soften. Then, gently stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. If it feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more cream. Trust me, a velvety ganache is worth the extra effort!
Making the Macaron Shells
Moving on to the shells! In a large bowl, sift together your almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder. This step ensures a smooth texture and prevents lumps. It’s like giving your dry ingredients a little spa day!
Now, let’s whip those egg whites! Using a stand mixer, whisk the egg whites on medium speed. Once they start to get foamy, add in your cream of tartar. Gradually sprinkle in the sugar while whisking, watching it transform into stiff peaks. This is crucial for achieving that light, airy macaron texture.
Once your egg whites look like fluffy cloud peaks, gently fold in the dry ingredients. Be careful! Over-mixing can lead to flat macarons. Aim for a consistency that flows like “lava” when you lift the batter. It should hold its shape but be smooth and glossy.
Piping and Baking the Macarons
Let’s get piping! Use a piping bag fitted with a round tip and fill it with the macaron batter. Pipe 1-inch rounds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Give them some space since they’ll spread a bit as they bake.
After piping, allow them to sit at room temperature until a skin forms on top—about 30 minutes. This means they’ll bake evenly! Preheat your oven to 300°F and when ready, pop them in. Bake each tray for 13-15 minutes until they feel firm. The magic happens here as they rise and develop that lovely, lacy foot!
Assembling S’mores French Macarons
Now for the fun part—assembly! Once your macarons have cooled completely, it’s time to pair them up. Match similar-sized shells together.
Take one shell and dip it in the melted chocolate ganache you prepared earlier. While it’s still wet, sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top. Then, pipe a generous swirl of Swiss meringue onto the bottom of the matched shell.
To finish, add a dollop of ganache before gently placing the chocolate-dipped shell on top to form a delightful sandwich. For that extra touch, use a culinary torch to lightly toast the meringue topping, giving it that charming, campfire feel. Enjoy your creative moment—you deserve it!
Tips for Success
- Always weigh your ingredients for precise measuring, especially the egg whites and almond flour.
- Let your macarons mature in the fridge for 12-24 hours; this enhances their flavor and texture.
- Use a clean mixing bowl—any grease can hinder the fluffiness of your egg whites.
- Practice piping with extra batter on parchment paper to perfect your technique before filling the macarons.
- Don’t rush the resting time; this step is crucial for a great macaron shell!
Equipment Needed
- Stand mixer: For whipping egg whites. A hand mixer works too!
- Piping bags: Essential for shaped macarons. You can use zip-top bags with the corner snipped off.
- Baking sheets: Make sure they are flat and don’t bend.
- Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking—silicone mats are a great alternative!
- Fine mesh sieve: For sifting dry ingredients, ensuring a smooth texture.
Variations for S’mores French Macarons
- Flavored Shells: Swap out cocoa powder for matcha or espresso powder for a unique twist!
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace almond flour with a gluten-free almond or coconut flour blend. Just check for texture adjustments!
- Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed flour or a nut-free almond substitute for those with allergies.
- Caramel Surprise: Add a layer of salted caramel inside for a decadent flavor kick!
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute egg whites with aquafaba (chickpea water) for a plant-based delight.
Serving Suggestions for S’mores French Macarons
- Pair with coffee: A rich espresso or mocha complements the flavors beautifully.
- Hot chocolate dip: Serve with a side of hot chocolate for an indulgent experience.
- Garnish with graham cracker crumbs: Sprinkle crumbs on your serving platter for a charming presentation.
- Fresh fruit: Offer seasonal berries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
- Festive display: Arrange them on a tiered stand for a beautiful dessert table centerpiece.
FAQs about S’mores French Macarons
Can I make S’mores French Macarons ahead of time?
Absolutely! These macarons actually taste better after they have matured in the fridge for 12-24 hours. This resting period enhances their flavor and texture, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings.
What if my macaron shells crack while baking?
Cracking usually indicates a couple of issues. You may have over-mixed your batter or skipped the resting time before baking. Ensure your shells have a proper “skin” before they hit the oven to achieve that smooth finish!
Can I use other flavors instead of chocolate for my macaron shells?
Of course! Feel free to explore different flavors. You can substitute cocoa powder with matcha, vanilla, or even fruit powder for unique twists on your S’mores French Macarons. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
How should I store my assembled macarons?
Store your assembled macarons in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh. They are best enjoyed at room temperature, so let them sit out for a bit before serving!
What can I do if my filling is too runny?
If your filling turns out a bit runny, add a touch more powdered sugar or cornstarch to thicken it up. This will help achieve that creamy yet stable filling perfect for your S’mores French Macarons.
Final Thoughts
Creating these S’mores French Macarons is not just about making a dessert; it’s an experience filled with joy and creativity. Each step—from whipping the egg whites to toasting the meringue—offers a delightful journey that brings us back to those carefree campfire nights. The moment you take a bite and taste that rich chocolate mingling with fluffy marshmallow and crunchy graham crackers, you’ll truly understand the magic of these treats. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet pick-me-up, these macarons elevate my kitchen experiences and remind us all to indulge a little in our busy lives.
Print
S’mores French Macarons
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 macarons 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious S’mores French Macarons that bring together the flavors of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers in a delightful treat.
Ingredients
- 105 grams egg whites
- 130 grams powdered sugar
- 120 grams almond flour, fine ground
- 2 tablespoons natural cocoa
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 3/4 cups marshmallow fluff
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- pinch of salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream
- 1 tablespoon chocolate powder (natural or Dutch)
- 2 sheets graham crackers
- 1 tablespoon tiny dehydrated marshmallow bits
Instructions
- Finely chop the dark chocolate and place into a large bowl.
- Heat heavy cream in a microwave safe bowl until hot, then pour over chopped chocolate and let sit.
- Mix until chocolate is fully melted and smooth, then let it cool until thickened.
- Sift together almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder in a large bowl.
- Whisk egg whites in a stand mixer until foamy, then add cream of tartar.
- Gradually add sugar while whisking, then whisk until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in the dry ingredients until the batter reaches a “flowing lava” consistency.
- Pipe 1-inch rounds onto a baking sheet and let sit until a skin forms.
- Bake at 300°F for 13-15 minutes.
- Let cool completely before removing from the baking sheet.
- Match shells, dip one in melted dark chocolate, and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers.
- Prepare Swiss meringue by whisking egg whites and sugar over simmering water until dissolved, then beat until stiff peaks form.
- Pipe meringue on the macaron shell and add a scoop of chocolate ganache.
- Toast the meringue with a culinary torch, and top with the chocolate dipped shell.
- Store assembled macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for maturation.
Notes
- Best served at room temperature for optimal texture.
- Mature for 12-24 hours for the best flavor.
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Avoid over-mixing the macaron batter.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 macaron
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
