As I stood in my kitchen, the delightful scent of freshly baked macaron shells filled the air, instantly lifting my spirits. This time, I was whipping up something extra special: Christmas Tree Cake Macarons. These festive treats not only capture the essence of the holiday season but also pack a playful punch—perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging your sweet tooth. With a delightful green hue reminiscent of festive fir trees, these macarons are a healthier, homemade alternative to shop-bought confections. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them an effortless addition to your holiday cookie swap. Curious to learn how to bring a little sparkle to your festive gatherings? Let’s dive into this fun and satisfying recipe together!
Why You Need These Christmas Tree Macarons?
Festive Fun: These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are not just treats; they’re edible holiday decor that will brighten any table.
Flavorful Indulgence: With a creamy buttercream filling and a hint of vanilla, each bite is a burst of festive cheer.
Unique Presentation: Their vibrant green color and playful decorations make them a showstopper for any holiday gathering.
Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to baking, this straightforward recipe will guide you to macaron perfection without stress.
Make Ahead: These delightful morsels can be frozen in advance, allowing for a stress-free celebration when the festivities roll around.
Dive into the spirit of the season and discover more sweet delights with our other holiday macarons to make your celebrations even sweeter!
Christmas Tree Cake Macaron Ingredients
• Get ready to create delightful holiday treats that will dazzle your guests!
For the Macaron Shells
- 1 cup almond flour – This adds a lovely nutty flavor and texture.
- 1 ¾ cups powdered sugar – Provides sweetness and helps achieve the macaron's smooth surface.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 3 large egg whites – Aged at room temperature for 24 hours, they whip up to the perfect meringue!
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Helps stabilize the meringue and adds sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, comforting flavor.
- Green gel food coloring – Add until the desired shade of festive green is reached.
For the Buttercream Filling
- 1 cup unsalted butter – Make sure it's softened for a creamy texture.
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted – For a sweet and fluffy filling that complements the macarons.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream – Adds richness and helps smooth the buttercream consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling) – Creates a deliciously aromatic flavor.
For Decoration
- Edible glitter or sprinkles (optional) – Perfect for adding a festive touch to your macarons.
- Red candies or small fruit chews – Use these to mimic ornaments adorning your beautiful Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
With these ingredients gathered, you're well on your way to creating scrumptious little bites of holiday magic!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This initial step ensures your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons have a perfect base to bake on. Make sure the sheets are completely covered and set aside, ready for the delightful batter that’s coming up!
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together the almond flour, powdered sugar, and salt until well combined. This crucial step creates a smooth and fluffy mixture, which is essential for achieving the light texture of your macarons. Set this mixture aside while you work on the meringue, ensuring you have everything organized for the next steps.
Step 3: Whip the Meringue
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, whip the aged egg whites on medium speed until they become frothy and bubbly. Gradually sprinkle in the granulated sugar while increasing the mixer speed to high. Continue whisking until you achieve stiff peaks and a glossy meringue. This process takes about 5-7 minutes, and the magic happens when the mixture holds its shape perfectly.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Color
Once your meringue has reached stiff peaks, gently fold in the vanilla extract and green gel food coloring. Mix until you achieve your desired shade of festive green, ensuring the color is evenly distributed throughout the meringue. This vibrant hue is what will give your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons their cheerful appearance, perfect for the holiday season.
Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Carefully fold the sifted almond flour mixture into the meringue in three additions, using a spatula. Be gentle to avoid deflating the meringue; you want the batter to flow like lava. The perfect consistency is reached when it can form a figure-eight shape without breaking apart, indicating it’s ready to be piped.
Step 6: Pipe the Macaron Shells
Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles about 1.5 inches in diameter onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each one for expansion. This step is where your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons start to take shape, so take your time and aim for uniform sizes.
Step 7: Rest the Macarons
Gently tap the baking sheets firmly on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles. Let the piped macarons rest for 30-60 minutes until a skin forms on the surface and they feel dry to the touch. This crucial resting period helps create the characteristic “feet“ that your macarons will have when baked.
Step 8: Bake the Macarons
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them, rotating the sheets halfway to ensure even baking. You’ll know they’re done when the feet are set and the tops are firm, exhibiting a slight sheen. This is the moment your festive macarons begin to transform!
Step 9: Cool the Macarons
Once baked, let the macarons cool completely on the sheets before gently transferring them to a wire rack. Make sure to allow them to cool fully; this helps maintain their delicate structure and prevents them from becoming soggy. Trust the process; your patience will pay off for these Christmas Tree Cake Macarons!
Step 10: Prepare the Buttercream Filling
While the shells are cooling, prepare the buttercream filling. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the sifted powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until fluffy. Stir in the additional vanilla extract for that warm, inviting flavor that will complement your macarons beautifully.
Step 11: Assemble the Macarons
Once your macarons are cool, pair them according to size. Pipe a generous dollop of buttercream on the flat side of one macaron shell, then gently sandwich it with its matching partner. Repeat with the remaining macarons to create those delightful treats. This is where the magic of Christmas Tree Cake Macarons comes together!
Step 12: Decorate Your Treats
To finish, get creative with the decoration! Dust the assembled macarons with edible glitter or sprinkles to mimic festive decorations. Optionally, you can place a small red candy or fruit chew on top to resemble Christmas ornaments. These finishing touches will make your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 3 days in advance by baking them and storing them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their quality. The buttercream filling can also be made 24 hours ahead and refrigerated—just give it a quick stir before using to restore its creaminess. When ready to serve, simply assemble and decorate your macarons with the festive sprinkles and candies. This approach not only saves you time on busy days but ensures your holiday treats are just as delicious as freshly made!
Helpful Tricks for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
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Room Temperature Eggs: Always age your egg whites for 24 hours at room temperature for the best meringue results; this helps achieve stiff peaks and a glossy finish.
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Gentle Folding: When combining the almond flour mixture with the meringue, fold gently to avoid deflating the batter; the ideal texture flows like lava and can form a figure eight without breaking.
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Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step! Allow the piped macarons to sit until they develop a skin. This crucial step is key to achieving that perfect foot on your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
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Even Baking: Rotate your baking sheets halfway through baking for evenly cooked macarons; this will help prevent any undesired browning and ensure a perfect finish.
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Cooling Patience: Allow macarons to cool completely before removing them from the baking sheet; this helps maintain their delicate structure and prevents collapsing.
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Decorating Delight: Get creative with toppings! Use edible glitter or sprinkles to add a festive sparkle to your macarons, turning them into delightful holiday treats.
Christmas Tree Cake Macaron Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons and tailor them to your tastes!
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Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with finely ground oat flour for a nut-free option while keeping a delightful texture.
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Vegan: Use aquafaba (chickpea water) instead of egg whites and a vegan butter alternative for the filling to cater to plant-based diets.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the almond flour mixture for a thin layer of chocolate flavor that beautifully complements the vanilla buttercream.
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Citrus Twist: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the buttercream for a refreshing, zesty flavor that will elevate these festive treats!
With these substitutions, you can keep that sweet holiday spirit alive while catering to diverse palates.
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Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne or chili powder in the buttercream can create a playful heat, adding an unexpected twist to the sweetness.
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Cream Cheese Filling: Swap out the butter in the filling for cream cheese for a deliciously tangy and rich alternative that pairs brilliantly with the sweet shells.
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Fruity Fun: Use fruit-flavored gel instead of green coloring to create a variety of colorful macaron options like raspberry or lemon — perfect for a festive platter.
These delightful variations will certainly allow your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons to shine in any holiday gathering. Don't forget to check out our holiday macarons for even more delicious ideas!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Room Temperature: Keep unfilled macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Fridge: For filled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons, store them in an airtight container in the fridge where they can stay fresh for up to 5 days. This also allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Freezer: To freeze macarons, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container after they’re frozen solid. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen macarons in the fridge for several hours before serving for optimal texture. Enjoy their delightful flavor and festive appearance straight from the freezer!
What to Serve with Christmas Tree Cake Macarons?
As the sweet, buttery scent fills your room, it’s time to think about delightful companions to your beautiful holiday macarons.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: This creamy beverage intensifies the nostalgia of festive gatherings while balancing the sweetness of the macarons. The warmth from the cocoa creates a comforting experience, perfect for cozy evenings.
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Peppermint Bark: A crunchy, chocolaty treat that adds a refreshing twist alongside your macarons. The mint complements the sweet buttercream, enhancing the festive spirit beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, creamy texture and subtle flavor offer a delightful contrast to the crispy macaron shell. A scoop of vanilla ice cream next to your macarons creates a heavenly dessert dream.
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Fruit Salad: A medley of bright, seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your dessert table. The tartness of berries perfectly contrasts with the sweetness of the macaron, making for a balanced bite.
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Spiced Apple Cider: This warm and aromatic drink brings the flavors of autumn into your holiday celebrations. It’s a perfect pairing, evoking warmth and joy while complementing the festive macarons.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft and tangy cheeses pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the macaron. Include nuts and dried fruits to elevate this snack pairing into a sophisticated treat.
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Holiday Punch: A refreshing holiday punch adds a bubbly, celebratory feel to your gathering. Choose a mix of fruity flavors that can enhance the playful nature of your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
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Gingerbread Cookies: The spicy warmth of gingerbread captures the essence of the holidays and makes a delightful addition to your festive dessert spread. The flavors harmonize beautifully with the richness of the macarons.
Each of these pairings enhances the joyful experience of your wonderfully festive Christmas Tree Cake Macarons, making celebrations memorable!
Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Recipe FAQs
What type of almond flour should I use?
You’ll want to use finely ground almond flour for the best results! Look for brands that have a super fine texture, as this will help achieve the smooth and delicate macarons we all love. Avoid using almond meal, which has a coarser texture and can lead to less-than-perfect shells.
How do I store the macarons after making them?
Store unfilled macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’ve filled them, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for up to 5 days. I often find that the flavors meld beautifully when they sit for a bit in the fridge!
Can I freeze my Christmas Tree Cake Macarons?
Absolutely! Freezing macarons is a fantastic way to enjoy them later. To freeze, place unfilled macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge for several hours; they taste just as delightful as when freshly made!
What if my macaron shells are too soft or crack during baking?
If your shells are too soft, it can be due to not cooking them long enough or not allowing them to rest adequately before baking. Make sure to let the piped macarons rest until they’re dry to the touch—30 to 60 minutes is ideal. If they crack, ensure that your oven isn’t too hot as well; a consistent temperature is key to getting those beautiful feet!
Can I make these macarons gluten-free?
Yes! The fabulous thing about macaron recipes is that they are naturally gluten-free! Just stick to the almond flour and ensure any additional ingredients (like your food coloring and decorations) are gluten-free too. Perfect for all your gluten-sensitive friends and family!
Are Christmas Tree Cake Macarons safe for pets?
It's best to keep these delightful treats away from our furry friends. While the ingredients used are generally safe for humans, chocolate or certain candies may not be suitable for pets. Always check ingredient suitability before sharing any treats with your pets!
Deliciously Festive Christmas Tree Cake Macarons You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Sift together the almond flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Whip the aged egg whites on medium speed until frothy, then add granulated sugar while increasing speed to high until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the vanilla extract and green gel food coloring until evenly mixed.
- Fold the sifted almond flour mixture into the meringue in three additions.
- Pipe small circles about 1.5 inches in diameter onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Let the piped macarons rest for 30-60 minutes until a skin forms.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, rotating halfway through to ensure even baking.
- Cool the macarons completely on the sheets before transferring to a wire rack.
- Beat softened butter until creamy, then gradually add sifted powdered sugar and heavy cream until fluffy. Stir in additional vanilla extract.
- Pair macarons by size, pipe buttercream on one shell, and sandwich with the other.
- Decorate with edible glitter or sprinkles, and add red candies or fruit chews if desired.
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