There’s something truly delightful about watching a gathering of colorful Raspberry Macaron Stacks come together in my kitchen. The way the delicate confections rise to perfection, transforming into little mounds of airy sweetness, always evokes a sense of accomplishment. I stumbled upon this recipe while dreaming up the perfect treat for a recent brunch with friends — a need to impress, paired with a love for raspberries, led me here.
As the fruity aroma fills the air, it instantly lifts the mood, reminding me that home-cooked creations are what make memorable moments even sweeter. These vibrant macarons are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re a delightful blend of crunchy and creamy, elegant yet surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for brightening any occasion or simply indulging yourself, this Raspberry Macaron Stack is about to become your new go-to recipe when you want to create something special without spending all day in the kitchen. Ready to dive into this sweet adventure? Let’s get started!
Why You'll Love This Raspberry Macaron Stack
- This Raspberry Macaron Stack is a stunning centerpiece that adds a touch of elegance to any dessert table.
- You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create these beautiful treats, even if you’re a baking novice.
- The delightful blend of almond and raspberry flavors makes each bite a burst of sweetness that everyone will adore.
- Plus, you can customize the colors and fillings to suit any occasion, making it a versatile treat that you’ll want to whip up time and time again.
Raspberry Macaron Stack Ingredients
• Create an exquisite treat with these essentials!
For the Macarons
- 1 cup almond flour – this nutty flour gives macarons their signature texture.
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar – ensures a sweet kiss of sugary delight for your Raspberry Macaron Stack.
- 3 large egg whites – fresher is better; they whip up to achieve those beautiful peaks!
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – added gradually for stability in your meringue.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – amplifies flavor, making each bite even more delectable.
- Food coloring (optional) – add a splash of color to match your occasion’s theme!
For the Raspberry Buttercream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – use room temperature for easy creaming and a silky texture.
- 2 cups powdered sugar – sweetens the buttercream to perfection, balancing the tartness of raspberries.
- 1/4 cup fresh raspberries – these fruits provide a burst of flavor that complements the macarons beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor profile of the buttercream.
- Pinch of salt – a tiny touch to elevate the sweetness and round out the flavors.
How to Make Raspberry Macaron Stack
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Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Sifting together the almond flour and powdered sugar ensures a smooth base, free from lumps, for your macarons.
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Whip the egg whites in a clean, dry mixing bowl on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Incorporate the vanilla extract and any food coloring, mixing gently.
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Fold the almond flour mixture into the whipped egg whites in three additions. Be cautious not to deflate the batter, as each airy bubble counts! Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip and pipe small rounds (about 1.5 inches) onto the prepared sheets. A gentle tap on the counter can help release air bubbles.
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Rest the piped macarons at room temperature for 30–60 minutes, until the tops feel dry to the touch. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until they’ve risen and feel firm. Once done, allow them to cool completely on the sheets.
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Beat the softened butter in a mixing bowl until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, raspberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy, ready to spread!
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Match the cooled macaron shells in pairs for consistency in size and shape. Pipe a dollop of raspberry buttercream onto the flat side of one shell and gently sandwich with the other shell, pressing down slightly to spread the filling evenly. If you’d like, stack the filled macarons, adding extra buttercream layers in between.
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Refrigerate the assembled macarons for about 30 minutes to enhance their texture before serving. Arrange them on a decorative platter and get ready to impress!
Optional: Add a few fresh raspberries on top for an extra pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Raspberry Macaron Stack?
Indulging in a sweet adventure with raspberry flavors opens up inviting possibilities for creating the perfect dessert spread.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, and extra raspberries add a fresh, vibrant contrast, playing beautifully against the sweetness of the macarons. Their natural acidity enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream offers a rich, creamy counterpart to the delicate macaron texture. Consider adding a hint of vanilla or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that extra touch of indulgence.
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Chocolate Ganache: A silky chocolate ganache will elevate your dessert experience, creating a luxurious pairing with the raspberry. The richness from the chocolate beautifully complements the tartness of the filling.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly complements the lightness of the macarons while adding a celebratory note to the occasion. The effervescence also refreshes the palate after each sugary bite.
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Fruit Sorbet: A refreshing fruit sorbet, particularly in raspberry or lemon flavor, provides a lovely contrast in temperature and texture, making your dessert table an exciting medley of flavors.
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Tea or Coffee: Pairing your Raspberry Macaron Stack with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee enhances the sensory experience. The warmth balances the sweet, fruity elements and turns dessert into a cozy affair.
Dare to mix and match these complementary delights to create your own unforgettable dessert experience!
How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Macaron Stack
Room Temperature: Store any leftover Raspberry Macaron Stack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their beautiful texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep them for longer, refrigerate the assembled macarons in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: You can freeze the unfilled macarons for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fill them once thawed for the freshest taste.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat macarons; simply enjoy them as they are! For a delightful frozen treat, serve directly after a brief thawing period.
Raspberry Macaron Stack Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make these macarons your own!
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Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a zesty twist that brightens the flavor profile beautifully. The refreshing notes pair wonderfully with raspberries.
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Nut Flour Swap: Substitute almond flour with hazelnut or pistachio flour for a nutty flavor twist that will intrigue your taste buds. Each nut brings its unique character, making each batch a delightful surprise.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over the completed macaron stack for an elegant finish. The rich chocolate adds an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Berry Medley: Use a mix of berries, like strawberries and blueberries, in the buttercream for a colorful and flavor-packed filling. This delightful combination adds vibrant color, making your stack even more visually appealing!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the buttercream for a surprising touch of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tart flavors.
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Vegan-Friendly: Replace egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) and use plant-based butter for a delightful vegan variation of these macarons. They’ll be just as airy and delicious!
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Rose Water: Add a few drops of rose water to the macaron batter for a floral note that pairs beautifully with the raspberry flavor. This whimsy twist adds an elegant touch to your dessert.
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Matcha Infusion: Blend matcha powder into the macaron batter for a unique green hue and earthy flavor. The combination of raspberry and matcha creates a stunning visual contrast and a taste sensation.
Make Ahead Options
These Raspberry Macaron Stacks are wonderful for meal prep, perfect for busy bakers who want to impress! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake and let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. The raspberry buttercream can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture and flavor, make sure to bring the buttercream back to room temperature and re-whip it before use. When you’re ready to serve, just pipe the filling between the macaron shells and refrigerate them for another 30 minutes for the best texture. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have indulgent, homemade treats ready to impress family and friends effortlessly!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a successful Raspberry Macaron Stack, make sure to sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together to prevent any lumps that could affect the texture.
- Avoid overmixing the batter after folding in the dry ingredients, as this can deflate the meringue and lead to flat macarons.
- When piping the rounds, maintain consistent pressure to ensure even shapes and sizes, and tap the baking sheets to release any trapped air.
- Always let the macarons rest until they form a dry skin on top before baking, as this step is crucial for achieving the signature foot of the macaron.
Raspberry Macaron Stack Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe raspberries for the buttercream?
Absolutely! Look for vibrant, plump raspberries without dark spots. When you squeeze them gently, they should be firm but not overly hard. Freshly picked or those from a farmers’ market often have the best flavor, lending a delightful tartness to your buttercream.
How should I store leftover Raspberry Macaron Stacks?
Very simply! If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and maintains their wonderful texture. For longer storage, I recommend refrigerating the assembled macarons for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze the Raspberry Macaron Stack?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze unfilled macarons for up to 3 months. To do this, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the macarons before filling them, and they’ll taste just as fresh!
What should I do if my macarons don’t have the “feet”?
Oh no, let’s troubleshoot! The absence of feet usually means they didn’t rest long enough before baking. Ensure the piped shells sit at room temperature until they form a dry skin on top (this can take 30-60 minutes). Another factor could be overmixing your batter, which deflates the precious air bubbles. I recommend checking the consistency while folding in the dry ingredients — a gentle touch is key!
Are macarons safe for pets or those with nut allergies?
It’s essential to be cautious! Macarons contain almond flour, making them unsuitable for anyone with nut allergies, and they aren’t safe for pets due to sugar and the potential for chocolate, depending on the flavor. Always share this treat with your human friends, and keep it away from your furry family members!
Raspberry Macaron Stack
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour this nutty flour gives macarons their signature texture.
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar ensures a sweet kiss of sugary delight for your Raspberry Macaron Stack.
- 3 large egg whites fresher is better; they whip up to achieve those beautiful peaks!
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar added gradually for stability in your meringue.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract amplifies flavor, making each bite even more delectable.
- food coloring optional; add a splash of color to match your occasion's theme!
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter use room temperature for easy creaming and a silky texture.
- 2 cups powdered sugar sweetens the buttercream to perfection, balancing the tartness of raspberries.
- 1/4 cup fresh raspberries these fruits provide a burst of flavor that complements the macarons beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the buttercream.
- pinch of salt a tiny touch to elevate the sweetness and round out the flavors.
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar.
- Whip the egg whites in a clean, dry mixing bowl on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Incorporate the vanilla extract and any food coloring, mixing gently.
- Fold the almond flour mixture into the whipped egg whites in three additions, being cautious not to deflate the batter. Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip and pipe small rounds onto the prepared sheets. Tap gently to release air bubbles.
- Rest the piped macarons at room temperature for 30–60 minutes, until the tops feel dry to the touch. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until they've risen and feel firm. Cool completely on the sheets.
- Beat the softened butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, raspberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Match the cooled macaron shells in pairs for consistency. Pipe a dollop of raspberry buttercream onto one shell and sandwich with the other. Optionally, stack filled macarons with extra buttercream layers.
- Refrigerate the assembled macarons for about 30 minutes before serving. Arrange on a decorative platter for serving.
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