Macarons

Macarons with Cocoa Cream Recipe – An Unforgettable Treat

If you want to impress your guests or simply indulge in a refined dessert, cocoa cream macarons are the perfect choice. These delights are not only beautifully colored and have a unique texture, but they also bring a touch of elegance to any occasion. Moreover, making them can be a wonderful experience, filled with memories and moments of joy.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Servings: 12 macarons

Ingredients

For the batter:
- 3 egg whites
- 180 g powdered sugar
- 20 g granulated sugar
- 100 g almond flour

For the cream:
- 240 ml milk
- 20 g cornstarch
- 15 g cocoa
- 25 g sugar
- 125 g butter at room temperature
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

A Brief History of Macarons
This delicate dessert has a fascinating history, often associated with refinement and culinary art. The origins of macarons are frequently debated, but they are believed to have initially been created as a simple meringue cookie, later evolving into the form we know today. Each bite of a macaron reminds us of the perfect combination of sweetness and texture, turning every moment into a celebration.

Making the Batter

1. Preparing the Egg Whites: Start by beating the egg whites in a large bowl, adding a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer on high speed to achieve a firm meringue that holds its shape. This step is crucial, as a well-beaten meringue will give the macarons their light and airy texture.

2. Adding the Sugar: Once the egg whites are well-beaten, gradually add the granulated sugar, one teaspoon at a time. Mix on high speed for 2-3 minutes after each addition, until the mixture becomes glossy and firm.

3. Incorporating the Dry Ingredients: Sift the almond flour with the powdered sugar a few times to avoid lumps. Use a spatula or a large wooden spoon to fold the flour mixture into the meringue. Do this with circular motions from the bottom up, being careful not to deflate the batter.

4. Shaping the Macarons: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Use a piping bag or a spoon to form round mounds of batter, about 4 cm in diameter. Finally, let them rest for 1 hour, until the surface becomes slightly dry to the touch. This step is essential for achieving the characteristic "feet" of the macarons.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 150°C. Bake the macarons for 15-20 minutes, until firm to the touch. Allow them to cool on the tray before carefully lifting them off with a knife.

Making the Cream

1. Mixing the Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the cocoa, sugar, and cornstarch with 2-3 tablespoons of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the remaining milk and mix well.

2. Microwaving: Place the mixture in the microwave at 800W for 1 minute. Take it out, stir, and repeat the process for another minute. Be attentive to your microwave's power, as each model may vary.

3. Adding the Butter: Once the pudding has cooled, add the room-temperature butter and mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Assembling the Macarons

1. Filling: Use a piping bag to fill each macaron with the cocoa cream. Make sure not to overfill, to avoid overflow.

2. Serving: Enjoy the macarons with a glass of cold milk or a fragrant tea. You can decorate them with chocolate flakes or a dusting of cocoa for an even more appealing look.

Helpful Tips

- Check the consistency: Make sure the cream is not too runny. If it is, add a bit more cornstarch and heat again.
- Avoid moisture: Macarons can quickly become soggy due to the cream. It’s best to consume them within 2-3 days. You can store them in an airtight container, but don’t keep them too long.
- Experiment with flavors: Instead of cocoa, you can try flavors like vanilla, coffee, or citrus.

Pairings and Recommendations

To complete the culinary experience, I recommend serving macarons with a warm drink, such as a strong espresso or a fruit tea. You can also try pairing them with other desserts, like a fruit tart or a chocolate mousse.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Why don’t my macarons rise well? – Make sure you have beaten the egg whites well and let the batter rest before baking.
- Can I use a different type of flour? – Almond flour is essential for the texture of macarons, but you can experiment with other types of flour, although the results may vary.

These cocoa cream macarons are not just a delicious dessert but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories while cooking with loved ones. I wish you great success in making them and, most importantly, enjoy!