Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons are a delightful treat that brings together rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter in a perfect, bite-sized dessert. Ideal for celebrations, holidays, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these macarons will impress anyone who tries them. With their delicate shells and luscious filling, they are truly what dessert dreams are made of.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and peanut butter creates an irresistible taste that appeals to all dessert lovers.
- Stunning Presentation: These macarons have a beautiful appearance that makes them perfect for special occasions or as gifts.
- Versatile Treat: Whether for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings, these macarons fit right in at any event.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add toppings or switch up the filling for a unique twist on this classic treat.
- Fun Baking Experience: The process of making macarons is enjoyable and rewarding, especially when you see the final result.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk attachment
- Pastry bag with tip
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Essential for whipping egg whites to stiff peaks without tiring your arms out.
- Parchment paper: Prevents the macarons from sticking to the baking sheets for easy removal.
- Whisk attachment: Helps achieve the right texture in your meringue for perfect macaron shells.
Ingredients
These Reeses Macarons AKA chocolate peanut butter macarons with a creamy peanut butter filling are seriously what dreams are made of.
For the Macaron Shells
- 100 grams egg whites
- 100 grams granulated sugar
- 100 grams almond flour
- 100 grams powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
For the Peanut Butter Filling
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/3 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meringue
Heat a small pot of water over medium heat until it steams. In a bowl placed over this pot (creating a double boiler), combine the egg whites and granulated sugar.
Step 3: Whisk Until Frothy
Whisk continuously for about 1 to 1.5 minutes until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture becomes white and frothy. Remove from heat and transfer back to your stand mixer.
Step 4: Whip to Stiff Peaks
Using the whisk attachment, whip on high speed for 2-3 minutes or until stiff peaks form. You have just made Swiss meringue!
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together almond flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Gradually fold this mixture into your meringue bowl gently.
Step 6: Achieve Perfect Consistency
Place the bowl back on your stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Mix on medium speed for about 10 seconds. Check if you can create a figure-eight with some batter without it breaking; if not, mix for an additional 5-10 seconds until you reach that slow-moving lava consistency.
Step 7: Pipe the Macarons
Scoop the batter into a large pastry bag fitted with a 1-inch tip. Pipe silver dollar-sized circles onto your prepared baking sheets, ensuring about 1.5 inches of space between each circle. Tap the baking sheet on counter twice to remove air bubbles.
Step 8: Bake
Place in your preheated oven for 13 minutes, rotating halfway through. Allow them to cool completely before removing from baking sheets.
Step 9: Make Peanut Butter Filling
While your macarons bake, prepare your filling by beating together peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt; beat until fluffy.
Step 10: Assemble Macarons
Transfer the filling into another piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe onto half of the macaron shells and sandwich with another shell on top. Optional: drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle chopped peanuts for added texture!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Chocolate peanut butter macarons are not just a treat; they are an experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, serving these delightful cookies can elevate any occasion.
For Coffee Lovers
- Pair with Espresso: The rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter balance beautifully with a strong espresso, making it a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
- Serve with Cappuccino: The creamy froth of cappuccino complements the texture of macarons, adding an extra layer of delight.
As Party Favors
- Include in Gift Baskets: Nestle chocolate peanut butter macarons in stylish gift baskets for birthdays or holidays. They make thoughtful, sweet gifts.
- Display on Dessert Tables: Use colorful stands to showcase your macarons at parties. Their vibrant colors will attract guests and add to the décor.
With Ice Cream
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Create indulgent ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two macarons for a delightful twist.
- On Top of Sundaes: Crumble macarons over ice cream sundaes for added crunch and flavor.
During Special Occasions
- At Weddings: Use these macarons as part of your dessert table. They add elegance and variety to wedding desserts.
- For Holidays: Serve them during festive gatherings as a sweet treat that everyone will love.
How to Perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
To achieve the best results with your chocolate peanut butter macarons, follow these essential tips for perfecting your technique.
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before whisking. This helps create better volume in your meringue.
- Sift Dry Ingredients Thoroughly: Sifting almond flour and cocoa powder prevents clumps, ensuring a smoother batter and perfect macaron shells.
- Monitor Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurate. This prevents overbaking or underbaking your macarons.
- Practice Piping Techniques: Pipe evenly sized circles for uniform macarons. Consider using templates under parchment paper for consistency.
- Allow Cooling Time: Let the macarons cool completely before removing them from the baking sheet. This helps maintain their shape and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Chocolate peanut butter macarons can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their rich flavors. Here are some suggestions:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of berries and citrus fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the macarons.
- Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses like aged cheddar that balance the sweetness with savory notes.
- Chocolate Fondue: Serve with fresh fruit or pretzels for dipping alongside your macarons for an indulgent treat.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Bite-sized cheesecakes offer a creamy texture that pairs well with the crunch of macarons.
- Nut Mixes: A selection of spiced nuts adds crunch and complements the nutty flavor in peanut butter.
- Mousse Cups: Light chocolate or coffee mousse cups provide a luxurious dessert option alongside your sandwiches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfect macarons every time.
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to flat macarons. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Inaccurate measurements: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements of your ingredients.
- Not letting them cool: Removing macarons too soon can cause them to break. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Skipping the double boiler: This crucial step helps create a stable meringue. Always whisk egg whites over steam until frothy.
- Not banging the baking sheet: To remove air bubbles, bang the sheet before baking. This ensures smooth tops and helps with rising.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons will last up to 5 days.
Freezing Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
- Wrap each macaron in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
- Oven: Preheat to 300°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes for optimal texture.
- Microwave: Heat for 10 seconds at a time, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan on low heat with a lid; this will gently warm them without losing texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons that might help you with your recipe.
What makes Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons special?
These macarons combine rich chocolate flavor with creamy peanut butter filling, creating a delightful treat that satisfies cravings.
How do I achieve perfect macaron shells?
Focus on precise measurements and proper folding techniques. Ensure your egg whites form stiff peaks before incorporating dry ingredients.
Can I customize the filling for my macarons?
Absolutely! While peanut butter is delicious, feel free to experiment with flavors like Nutella or cream cheese for variety!
How long do Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons take to make?
The total time is approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes, including preparation and baking times.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various filling options. These treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating or simply indulging yourself. We encourage you to try this recipe and explore different flavors that complement chocolate and peanut butter!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 macarons 1x
Description
Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons are a heavenly fusion of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, making them the ultimate indulgent treat. These delightful French pastries boast delicate shells that encase a luscious filling, perfect for elevating any celebration or satisfying your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
- 100 grams egg whites
- 100 grams granulated sugar
- 100 grams almond flour
- 100 grams powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/3 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a double boiler, combine egg whites and granulated sugar; whisk until frothy.
- Transfer to a stand mixer and whip until stiff peaks form.
- Sift almond flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar; gently fold into meringue.
- Pipe circles onto prepared sheets and tap to remove air bubbles; bake for 13 minutes.
- For the filling, beat together butter and peanut butter, gradually adding powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until fluffy.
- Assemble by piping filling onto half of the macaron shells and sandwiching with the other halves.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 macaron (15g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: <5mg
