Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, holiday gathering, or just a sweet indulgence after dinner. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, these macarons are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. The unique creamy filling makes them stand out, delivering a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will leave everyone wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Follow: This recipe breaks down each step clearly, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These macarons impress at parties, holidays, or simply as an everyday treat.
- Decadent Flavor Combination: The mix of chocolate and peanut butter creates a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the filling to suit your taste.
- Impressive Presentation: These macarons look beautiful on any dessert table, sure to wow your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your baking adventure with these Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons, gather your essential tools. Using the right equipment can make the process smoother and yield better results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Sifter
- Piping bags
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Saves time and energy by efficiently whipping egg whites into stiff peaks.
- Sifter: Ensures dry ingredients are lump-free for a smooth batter.
- Piping bags: Allow precise control when shaping macarons, essential for their uniform appearance.
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 the bowl of a stand mixer, combine egg whites and granulated sugar. Place this bowl over the steaming pot to create a double boiler.
- Whisk together until the sugar melts completely and the mixture becomes white and frothy (about 1 to 1.5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and place back onto the stand mixer.
Step 3: Whip to Stiff Peaks
Fit your stand mixer with a whisk attachment. Whisk on high speed for 2-3 minutes until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together almond flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Gently fold this mixture into the meringue bowl.
Step 5: Achieve Perfect Consistency
Place the bowl back onto the stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment.
1. Turn mixer to medium speed for about 10 seconds.
2. Stop and use a spatula to check if you can make a figure-eight with some batter without breaking it.
3. If needed, mix again for another 5-10 seconds until you reach that slow-moving lava consistency.
Step 6: Pipe Your Macarons
Scoop the batter into a large pastry bag fitted with a 1-inch tip. Pipe silver dollar-sized circles on prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1.5 inches between each meringue. Bang each baking sheet on the counter twice to release air bubbles.
Step 7: Bake Your Macarons
You don’t need to let them air dry! Pop them in the preheated oven for 13 minutes, turning halfway through. Allow them to cool completely before removing from baking sheets.
Step 8: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
While baking, prepare your filling:
1. Beat together peanut butter and butter until well combined.
2. Add in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until fluffy.
Step 9: Assemble Your Macarons
Scoop mixture into another piping bag fitted with a star tip. Once ready, pipe filling onto one macaron shell and sandwich it with another shell. Repeat this process for all macarons.
Optional: Garnish with melted chocolate or chopped peanuts for added texture!
Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Chocolate peanut butter macarons are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. These delightful desserts can be served in various ways to enhance their deliciousness and presentation.
Elegant Dessert Platter
- Arrange several chocolate peanut butter macarons on a beautiful platter for an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- Serve these macarons alongside a cup of rich coffee or herbal tea, allowing the flavors to complement each other beautifully.
Birthday Celebration Treats
- Use chocolate peanut butter macarons as a unique alternative to traditional birthday cake, providing guests with a fun and flavorful experience.
Layered Dessert Cups
- Crumble macarons into dessert cups layered with whipped cream or mousse for an indulgent treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Gift-Worthy Treats
- Package macarons in decorative boxes tied with ribbons for thoughtful homemade gifts during holidays or special occasions.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Create ice cream sandwiches by adding a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two macarons, perfect for warm days.
How to Perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Perfecting chocolate peanut butter macarons is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to help you achieve macaron mastery.
- Measure ingredients accurately: Ensure precise measurements of all ingredients for consistent results every time.
- Sift dry ingredients: Sifting almond flour and powdered sugar removes lumps, leading to smoother batter.
- Achieve the right meringue consistency: Whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form; this is crucial for macaron structure.
- Use proper piping technique: Pipe circles with even pressure and size, ensuring uniformity in your macarons.
- Control oven temperature: Baking at the right temperature prevents cracks; using an oven thermometer can help maintain accuracy.
- Let them cool completely: Allow macarons to cool fully before removing from baking sheets, preventing any breakage.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Chocolate peanut butter macarons can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of berries like raspberries or strawberries balances the sweetness of the macarons perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light touch that pairs well with rich desserts.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle or dip your macarons in chocolate ganache for an extra layer of decadence.
- Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of fruity sorbet offers a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate between bites.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can add savory elements that enhance the overall dessert experience.
- Nuts and Dried Fruits: A mix of nuts and dried fruits provides crunchy texture and additional flavors that complement chocolate and peanut butter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chocolate peanut butter macarons can be tricky! Here are some common mistakes and how you can avoid them.
- Boldly skip the sifting: Not sifting the almond flour and powdered sugar can lead to lumps. Always sift these ingredients for a smooth batter.
- Boldly ignore room temperature: Using cold egg whites can affect meringue consistency. Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature for the best results.
- Boldly rush the macaronage: Overmixing or undermixing during the macaronage process leads to cracked shells. Aim for a lava-like consistency before piping.
- Boldly underestimate oven temperatures: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your macarons while baking. Adjust temperatures if necessary to prevent overcooking.
- Boldly forget about cooling: Removing macarons from the baking sheet too soon can cause breakage. Let them cool completely before handling.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store macarons in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
- Place macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
- Oven: Preheat to 300°F and warm for 5 minutes to regain crispness.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for about 10 seconds, but avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place them in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about chocolate peanut butter macarons.
What are Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons?
Chocolate peanut butter macarons are delicate French cookies made with almond flour and filled with creamy peanut butter filling, perfect for dessert lovers!
How do I achieve perfect macaron feet?
To achieve perfect macaron feet, make sure your batter has the right consistency and pipe evenly-sized circles on parchment paper without overcrowding them.
Can I customize my Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons?
Absolutely! You can add flavors like vanilla or coffee to the meringue or experiment with different fillings like Nutella or fruit jams.
How should I store my macarons?
Store chocolate peanut butter macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate peanut butter macarons are truly delightful treats that bring together rich flavors and textures. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and colors for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these heavenly bites of joy!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 macarons 1x
Description
Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons are the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers. These delightful French treats feature a rich chocolate shell filled with a creamy peanut butter filling, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for any occasion, from birthday parties to holiday gatherings, these macarons are as visually impressive as they are delicious. With an easy-to-follow recipe, even novice bakers can create stunning results that will leave everyone craving more. Customize them with your favorite toppings or fillings to make them uniquely yours!
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 (for filling)
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for filling)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Create meringue by heating egg whites and granulated sugar in a bowl over simmering water until frothy. Whip to stiff peaks.
- Sift together almond flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar; fold into meringue.
- Pipe circles onto prepared sheets and bake for 13 minutes, turning halfway.
- Prepare peanut butter filling by creaming butter and peanut butter; mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until fluffy.
- Assemble macarons by piping filling between two shells.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 macaron (20g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
