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There’s something magical about turning a simple kitchen into a holiday wonderland, and these Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are the perfect festive treat to make it happen. With their cheerful green hue and cake-inspired filling, they encapsulate the spirit of the season. Plus, this recipe is a time-saver: you can whip up these delightful, Instagram-worthy desserts in under two hours, making them an ideal choice for busy holiday schedules. Whether you’re entertaining loved ones or surprising your neighbors with homemade goodies, these macarons are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Ready to impress your family and friends with your baking skills? Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe and create some edible holiday joy!
Why Make Christmas Tree Cake Macarons?
Festive Appeal: These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons not only look magical but also capture the essence of the holiday spirit, making them a standout treat for any gathering.
Quick Preparation: With a total prep time of under two hours, you can skip the long baking sessions and get straight to the fun part—enjoying delicious macaron creations.
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Versatile Flavor Options: Feel free to get creative! Substitute cake crumbles for different flavors or add a hint of peppermint extract to your filling for a wintery twist.
Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in decorative boxes to surprise friends and family, or serve them on a holiday dessert platter for an elegant touch that will impress your guests.
Unique Texture: The combination of a crisp shell and creamy, rich filling creates a delightful texture that ensures every bite is as enjoyable as the last. These festive macarons are sure to bring cheer to your holiday celebrations!
Christmas Tree Cake Macaron Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a smooth batter; it’s essential for the perfect macaron texture.
- Almond Flour – Provides structure and a nutty flavor; substitute with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option.
- Egg Whites – Essential for structure; use room-temperature egg whites for the best airy texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Stabilizes egg whites; crucial for achieving stiff peaks.
- Cream of Tartar – Helps stabilize whipped egg whites; necessary for that perfect rise.
- Green Gel Food Coloring – Gives macarons a festive appearance; adjust to reach your desired shade.
For the Filling
- Unsalted Butter – Forms the creamy base of the filling; can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free treat.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the filling; coconut cream works well for a dairy-free alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the filling; almond extract can provide a unique twist.
- Cake Crumbles (Snack Cake) – Provides nostalgic cake flavor in the filling; feel free to use any crumbled cake you have on hand.
Let’s gather these ingredients and embark on a delicious journey to create your very own Christmas Tree Cake Macarons that will surely delight at your holiday festivities!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
Sift together 1 cup of powdered sugar and ½ cup of almond flour in a bowl, ensuring no lumps remain. This crucial step will ensure a smooth and fine macaron batter. Repeat the sifting process twice for best results, then set the mixture aside while you whip the egg whites.
Step 2: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean mixing bowl, add 3 room-temperature egg whites and beat them with a hand mixer on medium speed until frothy. Gradually sprinkle in ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 1/8 teaspoon of cream of tartar while mixing at high speed until stiff peaks form. This process should take about 5-7 minutes, and your egg whites should have a glossy finish.
Step 3: Color & Fold
Once your egg whites are whipped to perfection, add a few drops of green gel food coloring to the mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold in the prepared almond flour and powdered sugar mixture, ensuring to incorporate everything without deflating the whipped whites. Continue folding until the batter flows smoothly like lava, usually around 50 folds.
Step 4: Pipe Macarons
Transfer the macaron batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. On parchment-lined baking sheets, pipe tree shapes or circles, about 1.5 inches wide, giving them some space to spread. After piping, gently tap the baking sheets against your countertop to release any air bubbles from the batter.
Step 5: Rest the Batter
Let the piped macaron shapes sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. This resting period is essential, as it allows a skin to form on the surface. You’ll know they are ready to bake when they no longer stick to your finger when touched.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Once the shells have developed their skin, place them in the oven and bake for 14-16 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through baking. The macarons should have risen and developed a smooth, glossy shell. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before removing them.
Step 7: Make Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter until fluffy and pale. Gradually mix in 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Finally, fold in about ½ cup of cake crumbles to give your filling that delightful holiday essence.
Step 8: Assemble Macarons
To assemble your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons, pipe a generous amount of the filling onto the flat side of one macaron shell. Top it with another shell, gently pressing down to create a sandwich. Finish them off by drizzling melted white chocolate over the top and decorating with festive sprinkles or an edible star for that perfect holiday touch.
Expert Tips for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
• Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature prior to whipping for maximum volume and stability in your macarons.
• Sifting Matters: Sift the powdered sugar and almond flour twice to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth macaron shell for your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
• Folding Technique: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the whipped egg whites. Overmixing can deflate the batter, creating flat macarons instead of the desired lofty texture.
• Resting is Key: Don’t skip the resting step—allowing the piped batter to sit until a skin forms is essential for achieving that signature macaron foot and proper rise.
• Cooling Process: Let your macarons cool completely on the baking sheet before removing them. This helps prevent breakage and maintains that perfect shell integrity.
• Flavor Maturity: For even better taste, allow assembled macrons to mature in the fridge for at least 24 hours before serving. This enhances the flavors and texture of your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
Make Ahead Options
The Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake and let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge, which helps maintain their delightful texture. Additionally, you can make the filling and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the macarons by piping the filling onto one shell and sandwiching it with another. Trust me, these make-ahead steps ensure your festive treats will be just as delicious and impressive as if made fresh that day!
What to Serve with Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Create a festive feast to complement these whimsical treats and delight your guests this holiday season.
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Warm Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, it pairs perfectly with the cookie’s sweet filling and adds a cozy touch.
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Peppermint Bark: This chocolatey treat enhances the festive vibe while providing a delightful crunch against the macaron’s chewy shell.
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Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the macarons. Consider pomegranate seeds for extra holiday cheer!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream melts beautifully against the chewy macarons, creating a delightful combination of textures.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bitter notes of coffee complement the sweetness of the macarons, providing balance and a cozy after-dinner treat.
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Christmas Cookie Platter: Serve these macarons alongside a variety of holiday cookies for a colorful dessert spread that showcases the holiday spirit.
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Mulled Wine: Warm and spiced, a glass of mulled wine enhances the festive atmosphere and perfectly complements the sweet macarons.
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Gingerbread Men: These spiced cookies bring an added layer of holiday flavor that pairs beautifully with the macarons’ cake-inspired filling.
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Chocolate Fudge: Rich and decadent, this indulgent treat enhances the overall dessert experience, striking a perfect balance with the macarons’ textures.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Fridge: Store assembled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezer: To freeze, arrange macarons in a single layer separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw in the fridge for about 2 hours before serving to restore their perfect texture.
Reheating: For the best experience, do not reheat macarons, as they are best enjoyed fresh after thawing.
Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these Christmas Tree Cake Macarons uniquely yours with some delightful variations!
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Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour to keep these festive treats accessible for everyone.
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Wintery Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the filling for a refreshing winter flavor that pairs perfectly with the festive theme.
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Colorful Options: Use different gel food colors to make a rainbow of holiday macaron flavors, brightening up any dessert platter during celebrations.
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Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace unsalted butter with dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream in the filling for a deliciously creamy vegan option.
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Chocolate Surprise: Fold mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the filling for an extra burst of flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Different Cake Crumbles: Switch up the base by using crumbled chocolate cake or red velvet for unique vibrant flavors within your macarons.
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Dusting Delights: After assembling, lightly dust the finished macarons with powdered sugar or edible glitter for that extra sparkle, making them even more festive!
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Holiday Spices: Infuse seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into your filling for a cozy, aromatic touch that brings warmth to every bite.
No matter which variations you try, these macarons are sure to bring joy and deliciousness to your festive gatherings. If you’re looking for more fun holiday ideas, consider making a delightful Pumpkin Spice Cake with Irresistible Caramel Frosting or the comforting Blueberry Pudding Cake to complete your celebration!
Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Recipe FAQs
What type of almond flour should I use for macarons?
I recommend using finely ground blanched almond flour for the best texture and flavor in your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons. This type helps achieve the desired smooth shell, avoiding any graininess.
How should I store my macarons after making them?
Store your assembled macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping them in a cool environment helps maintain their texture and flavor. If you want to prepare them for a more extended period, follow the freezing instructions below.
Can I freeze macarons, and how do I do it properly?
Absolutely! To freeze your macarons, place them in a single layer with parchment paper between them in a zip-top freezer bag or freezer-safe container. Make sure they’re well-sealed to avoid freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw for about 2 hours; this ensures they keep their delightful texture.
What should I do if my macaron shells crack during baking?
If your macaron shells crack, it could be due to overmixing the batter or not allowing them to rest long enough prior to baking. Always gently fold your dry ingredients to maintain the airiness of the egg whites, and ensure they have a skin and aren’t tacky when you touch them before placing them in the oven.
Are Christmas Tree Cake Macarons suitable for various dietary needs?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can be made lactose-free by substituting unsalted butter with margarine and heavy cream with coconut cream. If you’re accommodating nut allergies, you can replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour. Always check for possible cross-contamination if shared with nut-containing products.
What do I do if my macarons turn out too soft or flat?
If your macarons are too soft or flat, this usually indicates that they were underbaked or mixed improperly. Make sure to whip the egg whites to stiff peaks and bake until the shells have risen with a firm outer crust. Additionally, using room-temperature ingredients ensures better structure. If whimsical treats are your goal, consider letting your macarons rest longer before baking!
Delicious Christmas Tree Cake Macarons for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sift together 1 cup of powdered sugar and ½ cup of almond flour in a bowl twice and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, beat 3 egg whites until frothy, gradually add ¼ cup sugar and 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
- Add green gel food coloring to the whipped egg whites, then gently fold in the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture until smooth.
- Pipe the macaron batter onto parchment-lined baking sheets in desired shapes. Tap to release air bubbles.
- Let the piped macarons sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until a skin forms.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake for 14-16 minutes, rotate pans halfway, and allow to cool completely.
- Beat ¼ cup butter until fluffy, mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and cake crumbles until smooth.
- Assemble macarons by piping filling onto one shell and topping it with another shell.
