Macarons with Chocolate Ganache

Name: Macarons with Chocolate Ganache
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 macarons
Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour; 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar; 3 egg whites, aged at room temperature; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar; Gel food coloring (optional); 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Modern Meals

I absolutely adore making macarons, and this chocolate ganache version is my favorite. The delicate shells are crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, perfectly complementing the rich and velvety ganache filling. Every time I make them, my home fills with a delightful aroma that makes it hard to resist sneaking a taste before they're even cooled. Plus, these sweet treats are perfect for any occasion, from tea parties to special celebrations, and they never fail to impress my friends and family.

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:01:34.246Z

One of my most cherished baking moments happened when I first mastered macarons. I remember the thrill of watching the batter rise and form those iconic ‘feet’ in the oven—a sign of a successful macaron! After a few trials and some helpful tips I found online, I finally achieved that perfect balance of crispness and chewiness that makes macarons so special.

The secret really lies in the meringue preparation and resting time. Ensuring that the meringue is at the right stiff peak stage before folding in the almond flour mixture makes all the difference. I take my time with this step, and the results speak for themselves!

        Why You'll Love These Macarons
        Delicate and crispy shells that contrast beautifully with smooth chocolate ganache
A delightful mix of textures that melts in your mouth with each bite
Perfectly sized for a sweet treat and elegant enough for any gathering

      

Mastering the Macaron Technique

Achieving the perfect macaron shell requires precision and attention to detail. The aging of egg whites is crucial; allowing them to sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours helps to remove excess moisture. This results in a more stable meringue. Be careful not to overbeat the egg whites when whipping, as they should reach stiff peaks without being dry, which can lead to cracks in your macarons.

When folding the dry ingredients into the meringue, patience is key. You want a smooth mixture that flows like lava, which indicates you’ve achieved the right consistency. If you under-mix, your macarons may not develop properly, leading to uneven tops. Conversely, over-mixing can cause the batter to be too runny, resulting in flat macarons. Aim for that perfect lava-like flow!

Getting the Baking Just Right

Baking macarons can be tricky due to their sensitive nature. Preheating your oven at 300°F (150°C) is essential; an accurate temperature ensures even baking. Remember not to open the oven door during the first 12 minutes of baking, as sudden temperature changes can cause the macarons to collapse. You'll know they are done when they have formed a 'foot' and have a slight sheen, but they should not be browned.

Once you take them out, let the macarons cool completely on the baking sheet before attempting to transfer them. If you try to move them while still warm, they may stick or break. Using a silicone baking mat rather than parchment paper can help with sticking issues. Silicone mats provide a non-stick surface and can aid in achieving that perfect foot on your macarons.

Ganache Filling Tips and Variations

The chocolate ganache adds a rich, indulgent filling; however, the quality of chocolate you choose matters significantly. Opt for a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a more intense flavor. If you prefer a sweeter ganache, you can use semi-sweet chocolate or mix in some milk chocolate. For a twist, consider adding a splash of flavored extract (like orange or mint) to the ganache for an unexpected flavor profile.

If you're aiming for a thinner ganache consistency, simply increase the ratio of heavy cream to chocolate. This is great for drizzling on top of your macarons or for filling cakes. Conversely, if you want a thicker ganache that holds its shape, let it cool longer before piping. Once filled, store your macarons in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to develop the flavors before serving; this resting period enhances the texture and taste.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make these exquisite macarons:

Macaron Shells

1 cup almond flour
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
3 egg whites, aged at room temperature
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Gel food coloring (optional)

Chocolate Ganache Filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Once you’ve got everything together, you're ready to start crafting these delightful treats!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your macarons:

Prepare the Macaron Batter

In a mixing bowl, sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and whip until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue until the mixture is smooth and flows like lava. Add food coloring if desired.

Pipe the Macarons

Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Tap the baking sheet on the counter to release any air bubbles. Let the macarons rest for 30 minutes to form a skin.

Bake the Macarons

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for about 12-15 minutes. They should not be brown—let them cool completely on the baking sheet.

Make the Ganache Filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it’s just about to boil. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly before using.

Assemble the Macarons

Pair up the macaron shells and pipe a small amount of ganache onto the flat side of one shell. Gently top with the matching shell to create a sandwich. Allow them to rest in the fridge for at least 24 hours for best flavor.

Enjoy these elegant macarons with a cup of tea or as a delightful dessert!

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure that your bowls and utensils are completely grease-free to help the egg whites whip up perfectly. If you're new to making macarons, don’t stress if they don’t turn out perfect the first time! Baking is all about practice and enjoying the process.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Macarons can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, they can be frozen as well. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving, ensuring that their delicate texture remains intact.

When preparing the ganache, note that it can also be made in advance. After it cools, store it in the fridge and reheat gently in a microwave or over a double boiler when you're ready to use it. This flexibility allows you to enjoy fresh macarons any day of the week without the last-minute pressure!

Serving Suggestions

Macarons are not only delightful in flavor but also visually stunning. To enhance presentation, consider dusting them with edible glitter or placing them on a decorative serving platter. Pairing them with coffee or tea can elevate the tasting experience, allowing guests to enjoy the contrasting flavors and textures. For a creative twist, serve with fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream for a fun dessert!

You can also explore filling variations, like using fruit preserves or flavored buttercreams, which can create a beautiful array of colors and flavors. This not only pleases the palate but also makes your dessert table visually inviting. Don’t hesitate to experiment with various combinations for different occasions!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add flavors to the macaron shells?

Yes! You can add extracts like vanilla, almond, or citrus zest to enhance the flavor.

→ What can I replace almond flour with?

You can use other nut flours, like hazelnut flour, or a gluten-free blend, but the texture may vary.

→ How do I store leftover macarons?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Why do my macarons crack?

Cracking usually means they need more resting time before baking, or the oven temperature may be too high.