Valentines Treats Raspberry Macarons

Name: Valentines Treats Raspberry Macarons
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 macarons
Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour; 2 cups powdered sugar; 3 large egg whites (aged at room temperature); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; Red food coloring (optional); 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When it comes to making special desserts for occasions like Valentine’s Day, I always turn to these delightful raspberry macarons. Not only are they stunning to look at, but the balance of sweetness and tartness from the raspberry filling creates a flavor profile that truly captivates the senses. With just a bit of patience and practice, I can craft these delicate treats that impress not only the eyes but also the taste buds. I love serving them with tea for an elegant afternoon treat or as a gift to my loved ones.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:55:12.872Z

I remember the first time I made raspberry macarons for Valentine's Day. I was both excited and nervous, not sure if I could master the delicate technique required. Yet, every batch became a little more refined, and the process taught me the value of patience and precision in the kitchen.

One tip I found invaluable was to ensure the almond flour is finely sifted. It makes all the difference in achieving that elusive perfect shell. With the bold raspberry filling bursting in flavor, these macarons have become a signature treat in my home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The vibrant raspberry flavor brings a refreshing twist to classic macarons
Delicate texture with a satisfying crunch and a chewy center
A beautiful treat that adds a touch of elegance to any celebration

      

Mastering Macaron Techniques

Macarons can be finicky, but understanding the science behind each step is crucial. The process of aging egg whites enhances their stability, allowing for better meringue. Aim to age your egg whites in the fridge for at least 24 hours before bringing them to room temperature. This will help them whip up to stiff peaks more effectively, ensuring that your macaron shells rise perfectly during baking.

Additionally, folding is a critical technique in macaron making. When you combine the dry ingredients with the meringue, do so gently with a spatula. Over-folding can deflate the mixture, resulting in flat shells, while under-folding can lead to grainy textures. The goal is to achieve a smooth, glossy batter that flows like molten lava and holds a figure-eight shape when drizzled from the spatula.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your macarons develop ‘feet’ but are cracked on top, you may have let them bake too long or too hot. A perfect macaron shell should have a smooth surface and a light golden color, with delicate feet forming at the bottom. Adjusting your oven temperature or using an oven thermometer can help you determine the precise baking conditions that work best for you.

Another common issue is the filling leaking. Ensure your raspberry filling is firm enough before piping it onto the shells. Chilling the filling for a bit can thicken it and make it easier to manage. If you find the texture too runny, adding a bit more powdered sugar can help stabilize it without losing the delicious raspberry flavor.

Storing and Serving Your Macarons

Macarons are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored properly to maintain their delightful texture. Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to a month. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before serving, as this enhances their chewy texture.

For a stunning presentation, consider serving your raspberry macarons on a decorative platter with fresh raspberries or edible flowers. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also complements the raspberry flavor beautifully. Pair them with a light tea or champagne for a sophisticated dessert experience, perfect for any special gathering or romantic occasion.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your raspberry macarons:

Macaron Shells

1 cup almond flour
2 cups powdered sugar
3 large egg whites (aged at room temperature)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Red food coloring (optional)

Raspberry Filling

1 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and measured for best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely to create perfect raspberry macarons:

Prepare the Macaron Shells

In a bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar to eliminate lumps. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add granulated sugar while beating until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg whites. Add vanilla extract and food coloring if desired. Pipe onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let sit for 30 minutes until a skin forms.

Bake the Macarons

Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 15 minutes, rotating the tray halfway. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.

Prepare the Raspberry Filling

In a blender, puree the raspberries and strain to remove seeds. In a bowl, beat the softened butter, raspberry puree, lemon juice, and vanilla until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar until well combined.

Assemble the Macarons

Pair the macaron shells and pipe the raspberry filling onto the flat side of one shell. Sandwich it with another shell. Repeat with remaining shells and filling.

Enjoy your freshly made raspberry macarons!

Pro Tips

Allow the assembled macarons to sit in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Ingredient Insight

The choice of almond flour is essential for the unique texture of macarons. Unlike regular flour, almond flour provides the signature chewiness and delicate structure of macaron shells. For those requiring a nut-free option, sunflower seed flour can be a great alternative, though this may result in a different color as the shells have a tendency to turn green when baked.

Using aged egg whites is not merely a suggestion but a key factor in achieving the perfect meringue. Fresh egg whites can yield a more fragile meringue, often leading to collapsed shells. As a tip, if you’re short on time, you can gently warm your egg whites in a glass bowl set over hot water for just a few minutes to replicate the aging process.

Flavor Variations

While raspberry is a stunning choice, macarons can be filled with a multitude of delightful flavors. Consider substituting the raspberry with other fruits like strawberries or mangoes for a tropical twist. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate ganache, lemon curd, or even matcha buttercream to customize your treats for different tastes and occasions.

Another fun variation involves adding flavor extracts or spices to the macaron shells. A touch of almond extract can give an extra depth to your macarons, while a hint of cardamom or cinnamon might provide an exotic twist. These slight adjustments can elevate your raspberry macarons into something uniquely personal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries for the filling?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

→ Why did my macaron shells crack?

Cracking can be caused by under-whipping the egg whites or not letting them rest before baking.

→ How do I store leftover macarons?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I color the macarons with different food colors?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use gel food coloring for better results.