Valentines Treats Raspberry Macarons

Name: Valentines Treats Raspberry Macarons
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24
Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour; 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar; 3 large egg whites; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Red food coloring (optional); 1/2 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cakes, Pies & More

I love making these Raspberry Macarons for Valentine's Day. They are not only delightfully colorful but also bring a burst of tangy raspberry flavor that perfectly complements their sweet meringue shells. I started experimenting with this recipe to impress my loved ones, and every bite is a delicious reminder of why I adore macaron-making. The process can be a bit intricate, but with patience and practice, these treats become easier and incredibly rewarding to create. Plus, they make for a charming gift or dessert that everyone will rave about!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:40:17.292Z

Making Raspberry Macarons has become a cherished tradition for me every Valentine's Day. I recall my first attempt, feeling both anxious and excited as I piped the delicate batter onto the baking sheets. To enhance the raspberry flavor, I decided to use fresh raspberry puree, which completely transformed the taste. It’s essential to let the macarons rest before baking; this ensures they develop a beautiful 'foot' – a sign of success!

After some trial and error, I also learned the importance of accurate measurements. Using a kitchen scale for the almond flour and powdered sugar ensures that the macarons come out perfectly every time. I love how each batch can carry little surprises in taste and texture, making the process all the more thrilling.

        Why You'll Love These Macarons
        Bright raspberry flavor that balances sweetness beautifully
Delicate texture with a crisp shell and soft center
Perfectly elegant for romantic celebrations or gifting

      

The Importance of Sifting

Sifting the almond flour and powdered sugar together is a crucial step in macaron making. This process breaks up any clumps and ensures the batter achieves a smooth texture, essential for that perfect macaron shell. If you skip this step, you risk having uneven shells that may not rise properly during baking, resulting in a less-than-ideal texture.

Additionally, sifting helps to evenly distribute the powdered sugar, which plays a significant role in the sweetness and stability of the shells. A well-sifted blend creates a more delicate meringue and provides a beautiful finish, enhancing the overall appearance of your macarons.

Piping Techniques

When piping the macaron shells, aim for uniformity in size to ensure they bake evenly. I recommend using a template underneath your parchment paper as a guide, which can help maintain consistent sizing. Holding the piping bag perpendicular to the baking sheet, apply even pressure, and release the pressure before lifting the bag away to avoid peaks.

After piping, remember to tap the baking sheet to eliminate air bubbles. This is an important step because trapped air can lead to cracks or uneven surfaces. If you notice small air bubbles forming, you can gently pierce them with a toothpick for perfect, smooth shells.

Flavor Variations and Storage Tips

Feel free to explore different flavor combinations within your macarons. For instance, you can substitute the raspberry filling with other berries or even citrus zest for a refreshing take. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness according to the tartness of your chosen filling to maintain a balanced taste.

In terms of storage, macarons are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to three months; just make sure to layer them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw naturally at room temperature.

Ingredients for Raspberry Macarons

Macaron Shells

1 cup almond flour
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
3 large egg whites
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Red food coloring (optional)

Raspberry Filling

1/2 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Note

Make sure to sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together to avoid clumps.

Directions

Prepare the Raspberry Puree

In a blender, combine fresh raspberries and blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. Reserve about 2 tablespoons for the filling.

Make the Macaron Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour and powdered sugar, and sift together. Whisk egg whites in a clean bowl until foamy, gradually add granulated sugar, and continue whisking until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the almond flour mixture, followed by vanilla extract and food coloring until well combined.

Pipe Macarons

Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe evenly-sized circles on lined baking sheets. Tap the sheets on the counter to release air bubbles, then let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Bake Macarons

Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 15 minutes, ensuring not to open the oven door during baking. Remove from the oven and let cool before transferring.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and reserved raspberry puree. Mix until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Macarons

Pair the macaron shells and pipe a dollop of the raspberry filling onto the flat side. Gently sandwich with another shell and let them sit for at least an hour before serving for the best flavor.

Enjoy!

Serve the macarons on a decorative plate for an impressive presentation.

Pro Tips

For perfect macarons, ensure your mixing bowls and utensils are completely grease-free. A kitchen scale for precise measurements can really elevate your macaron game.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your macarons are not rising or spread too much during baking, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Make sure to fold gently when combining the egg whites with the dry ingredients; the goal is to achieve a shiny batter that flows like lava, without losing airiness.

Another common issue is hollow shells, which can be caused by undercooking. Ensure your macarons bake until they have a firm shell and do not wobble when gently touched, typically around 15 minutes depending on your oven. Always keep an eye on them to avoid browning.

Gifting Ideas and Presentation

These raspberry macarons make a stunning gift, especially when presented in a decorative box lined with colorful tissue paper or a simple cellophane wrap tied with a ribbon. It adds a personal touch that elevates the treat, making it perfect for special occasions like Valentine's Day.

To further enhance the presentation, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the assembled macarons before they set, or dusting them lightly with additional powdered sugar for an elegant finish. This small detail not only enhances their look but also adds another layer of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries for the filling?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and strain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I do if my macarons crack while baking?

This can happen due to high oven temperature or improperly rested shells. Ensure your oven temperature is correct and allow the shells to rest before baking.

→ How can I store leftover macarons?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to a month.

→ What is the best way to reduce foot size?

If your macarons have very large feet, try reducing the resting time before baking or slightly adjusting the oven temperature.