Introduction to S’mores French Macarons
Ah, the magic of S’mores French Macarons! If you’re anything like me, you cherish those cozy memories of sitting around a campfire, gooey marshmallows in hand. Now, imagine that nostalgic flavor captured in a delicate macaron! These delightful treats give you a quick solution for those busy afternoons or a sweet touch to impress your loved ones.
Making S’mores French Macarons might seem daunting, but trust me, you can conquer it! This recipe blends the best of chocolate, marshmallow fluff, and graham crackers, bringing a smile to anyone’s face. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This S’mores French Macarons
You’ll fall head over heels for these S’mores French Macarons! They’re not just a treat; they’re a sweet hug in dessert form. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re juggling a packed schedule. With delicious layers of chocolate and marshmallow fluff, each bite transports you to summer nights by the fire. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing—or savoring all by yourself. Who could resist?
Ingredients for S’mores French Macarons
Before we embark on our macaron-making journey, let’s gather our supplies! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Egg Whites: These little wonders provide the macaron’s structure. Fresh is best, so use room temperature egg whites for the fluffiest results.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweet ingredient ensures your macarons don’t just taste divine but also have that beautiful, crisp shell.
- Almond Flour: The key to that signature macaron texture. Fine ground gives a smooth finish—look for the premium variety for the best outcome!
- Cocoa Powder: A splash of richness! This adds the chocolatey flavor that pairs beautifully with the marshmallow fluff.
- Cream of Tartar: A must-have for stabilizing your egg whites, allowing them to whip into stiff peaks—trust me, it makes all the difference.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is perfect for the filling, bringing richness and creaminess to our delicious treat.
- Marshmallow Fluff: The star of the show! It gives that ooey-gooey texture that makes these macarons reminiscent of classic s’mores.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a hint adds depth to the flavors, rounding out the overall taste beautifully.
- Cornstarch: Another tip for texture! It keeps things light and airy—essential for that signature macaron feel.
- Salt: A pinch can elevate sweetness, balancing out tastes harmoniously in your macarons.
- Milk or Cream: A splash to adjust the consistency of your buttercream, making it easy to pipe and enjoy.
- Chocolate Powder: For added depth in flavor—don’t skimp on this one!
- Graham Crackers: Crushed into bits, they bring that iconic s’mores crunch and flavor.
- Tiny Dehydrated Marshmallow Bits: Optional, but they add a fun texture and a pop of nostalgia!
All the exact quantities are provided at the bottom of this article for your convenience and printing. Let’s get those ingredients ready and dive into making our delicious S’mores French Macarons!
How to Make S’mores French Macarons
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and create these delightful S’mores French Macarons! Follow these steps closely, and remember, it’s all about patience and a bit of fun in the kitchen.
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
Let’s start by creating the luscious chocolate ganache. Begin by finely chopping your dark chocolate and placing it into a large bowl. The smaller the pieces, the easier it will melt! Next, heat your heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until it’s hot, nearly boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate, and let it sit for around two minutes. This resting time is crucial; it allows the heat from the cream to soften the chocolate. After two minutes, take a spatula and gently mix the two together until smooth and fully melted. The result will be a glossy, melt-in-your-mouth ganache. Set it aside to cool until it thickens; this will help hold everything together later!
Step 2: Sift the Dry Ingredients
Sifting the dry ingredients is the next important step, and don’t skip it! In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder. Using a fine mesh sieve, pass this mix through, ensuring there are no lumps. Sifting helps to create a beautifully airy texture in your S’mores French Macarons. Plus, it evenly distributes the cocoa powder, which is essential for consistent flavor throughout your treats. Trust me, a smooth macaron shell makes all the difference!
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
Let’s whip those egg whites into fluffy clouds! In a clean, dry mixing bowl, add your room-temperature egg whites. Whisk them on medium speed until they turn foamy. Then, sprinkle in a touch of cream of tartar, which helps stabilize the egg whites. Gradually add your granulated sugar, about a tablespoon at a time, while still whisking. Keep beating until you reach stiff peaks; this means the mixture should stand tall and not droop. Your egg whites should shine brilliantly! This step is crucial for achieving the perfect rise and texture in your macarons. Patience is key, so don’t rush this part.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Now, let’s fold those dry and wet ingredients together! Gently add half of your sifted dry mixture into the whipped egg whites. Use a spatula to carefully fold it in, ensuring you don’t deflate those airy egg whites. After it’s incorporated, add the rest of the dry ingredients. Keep folding until you reach a thick, “flowing lava” consistency. You should see a smooth batter that slowly drips off the spatula. This texture is essential in achieving those signature macaron feet.
Step 5: Pipe and Bake
Time to pipe those adorable macarons! Line your baking sheets with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, fill it with your macaron batter. When piping, hold the bag perpendicular to the baking sheet and squeeze gently. Aim for 1-inch rounds, leaving some space between each macaron. After piping, tap the baking sheets firmly on the counter to release air bubbles. Let these sweet morsels rest for about 30-40 minutes until a skin forms on their surface. Preheat your oven to 300°F during this time. Once ready, bake for 13-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re no longer sticky and have formed those lovely feet!
Step 6: Prepare the Swiss Meringue
While the macarons cool, let’s focus on that silky Swiss meringue! In a heatproof bowl, combine your egg whites and sugar. Set this bowl over a simmering pot of water, making sure the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Whisk constantly until the sugar dissolves and feels smooth between your fingers. Once dissolved, remove it from the heat and beat with a mixer until you achieve stiff peaks—you want a glossy, fluffy texture! This meringue acts like a pillow around your ganache, giving each bite a heavenly lift. And don’t worry, a bit of patience goes a long way here!
Step 7: Assemble the Macarons
It’s finally time to assemble our decadent S’mores French Macarons! Match up your cooled macaron shells by size. Dip one side of each shell into the cooled chocolate ganache, so it’s nice and coated. Then, sprinkle them with crushed graham crackers for that delightful crunch. Pipe a circle of Swiss meringue around the edge of one shell, filling it in with more ganache in the center. Top it off with the other shell, pressing it down gently to squeeze out some filling. Voilà! Your macarons are ready to be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Let them rest for at least 12-24 hours to develop their flavors. Enjoy them at room temperature for the best texture!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature for better whipping.
- Reverse-sift your dry ingredients multiple times for an airier batter.
- Pipe the macarons evenly to ensure uniform sizes and baking.
- Let the macarons rest properly to form a skin before baking.
- Use a kitchen scale for accuracy in ingredients—precision is key!
Equipment Needed for S’mores French Macarons
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls; stainless steel or glass works best.
- Whisk: A hand mixer speeds things along, but a classic whisk is great too.
- Piping Bags: Disposable ones are convenient; you can also use sturdy zip-top bags.
- Silicone Mat or Parchment Paper: Silicone mats help prevent sticking; parchment works in a pinch.
- Kitchen Scale: For precise measurements—an important tool for macarons!
Variations of S’mores French Macarons
- Nut-Free Version: Swap almond flour with sunflower seed flour or a nut-free blend to accommodate those with nut allergies.
- Chocolate Chip Macarons: Add tiny chocolate chips to the batter for an extra sweet surprise in your S’mores French Macarons.
- Flavored Marshmallow Fluff: Experiment with flavored marshmallow fluff, like chocolate or strawberry, to elevate the taste profile.
- Coconut Macarons: Incorporate shredded coconut into the filling for a tropical twist that complements the chocolate flavor.
- Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the ganache for a refreshing minty flavor reminiscent of a Thin Mint!
Serving Suggestions for S’mores French Macarons
- Pair with Hot Chocolate: Serve these macarons alongside a warm mug of rich hot chocolate for an indulgent treat.
- Presentation: Arrange on a beautiful platter, garnished with mini marshmallows or chocolate shavings for added flair.
- Perfect for Parties: Great as a dessert for birthdays, holidays, or get-togethers—just a delightful conversation starter!
- Serve with Fresh Berries: Pair with strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
- Impress with Coffee: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or espresso; the flavors complement beautifully!
FAQs about S’mores French Macarons
Can I use egg substitutes for S’mores French Macarons? While traditional macarons rely on egg whites for structure, some recipes suggest using aquafaba as a vegan alternative. It’s a fun experiment but may require tweaking the ratios. Keep an eye on consistency!
What should I do if my macarons crack while baking? Cracked macarons can be a result of oven temperature being too high or not allowing enough time for the shells to dry before baking. Ensure you tap your baking sheet before putting them in the oven, and keep that temperature consistent!
How long can I store S’mores French Macarons? These delights can be stored in the fridge for up to five days, though they taste best rested for 12-24 hours. Just remember to let them sit out for about an hour before serving for the perfect texture.
Can I make S’mores French Macarons ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, making them a day in advance enhances their flavor. Just keep them stored in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to indulge!
What if I don’t have a kitchen scale? If a scale isn’t available, use measuring cups, but be cautious with ingredient amounts. For the best results, using a scale is highly recommended to keep your macarons consistent and delightful!
Final Thoughts on S’mores French Macarons
As you savor your S’mores French Macarons, let the memories roll in—those campfire gatherings mixed with sweet nostalgia. Each bite, a delightful explosion of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker, brings simple joy.
You’ve taken the time to create something truly special, and that’s no small feat. These macarons are perfect for celebrations or a well-deserved treat just for you.
So, whether sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo, remember—the effort you put into these whimsical bites is what makes them unforgettable. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with laughter!
Print
S’mores French Macarons
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 macarons 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful recipe for S’mores French Macarons that combines the flavors of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallow fluff into one perfect bite.
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 it in a large bowl.
- Heat the heavy cream in the microwave until hot to the touch, then pour it over the chopped chocolate and let sit for two minutes.
- Mix gently until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, then let it cool until thickened.
- In a large bowl, sift together almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder.
- Whisk egg whites in a stand mixer until foamy, add cream of tartar, and gradually add sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the egg whites until reaching a “flowing lava” consistency.
- Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper and pipe 1 inch rounds on the sheet.
- Tap the baking sheet on the counter to release air bubbles, then let the macarons sit until a skin forms, about 30-40 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F and bake for 13-15 minutes until they don’t move on their feet.
- Cool completely on the baking sheet and match shells before filling.
- Dunk the top of one shell in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers.
- To make Swiss meringue, whisk egg whites and sugar over simmering water until dissolved, then beat until stiff peaks form.
- Pipe meringue around the edge of the shell and add chocolate ganache in the center, then toast lightly with a blowtorch.
- Assemble the macarons and place them in an airtight container in the fridge for 12-24 hours before enjoying.
Notes
- For best texture, let macarons sit at room temperature for about an hour before eating.
- Store macarons in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- If ganache is too firm, microwave for 10 seconds to soften.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 macaron
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
