Vegan French Macarons
Vegan Macarons
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup aquafaba liquid from a can of chickpeas
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegan food coloring optional
For the filling:
- 1 cup vegan butter softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Raspberry jam or any vegan fruit preserves
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Sift almond flour and powdered sugar together in a large bowl. Set aside.
- Make the Meringue:
- In a clean, dry bowl, whip the aquafaba with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to whip.
- Once glossy and stiff peaks are achieved, add vanilla extract and food coloring (if using). Mix until combined.
- Fold in the Dry Ingredients:
- Gently fold the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture into the aquafaba meringue. Be careful not to deflate the meringue.
- Continue folding until the batter is smooth and has a lava-like consistency.
- Pipe the Macarons:
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
- Pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each macaron.
- Tap the baking sheets on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Let Them Rest:
- Allow the piped macarons to rest at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes, until a skin forms on the surface. This helps create the characteristic macaron shell.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Bake the macarons for 15-18 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through.
- Let them cool completely on the baking sheets.
- Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, beat together softened vegan butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Transfer the filling to a piping bag.
- Assemble the Macarons:
- Pair up the cooled macaron shells.
- Pipe a small amount of filling onto one shell and top it with another, creating a sandwich.
- Optionally, add a small dollop of vegan fruit preserves in the center of the filling.
- Chill and Enjoy:
- Place the assembled macarons in the fridge for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Bring to room temperature before serving.
Notes
These vegan French macarons are a delightful treat. They are crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and bursting with flavor from the vegan buttercream and fruit filling. Enjoy!