Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons are a delicious blend of flavors that will impress at any gathering. With their delicate shells and creamy peanut butter filling, they are perfect for celebrations, holidays, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter makes these macarons irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Follow: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is straightforward and guides you through each step.
- Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter filling create a delightful taste sensation in every bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These macarons are great for parties, holidays, or as a fun dessert to brighten your day.
- Versatile Treat: You can customize the filling with different flavors or toppings to match your preference.
- Impressive Presentation: Their beautiful appearance makes them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing for your Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons is essential. Having the right tools will ensure success in achieving that perfect macaron texture.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Sifter
- Pastry bag with 1-inch tip
- Star tip for piping
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Essential for whipping egg whites into stiff peaks needed for the meringue base.
- Sifter: Helps combine dry ingredients evenly and removes any lumps, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Pastry bag: Allows for precise piping of macaron shells and filling, giving them a professional look.
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. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set 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 the bowl over the steaming pot, creating a double boiler.
- Whisk the mixture until sugar melts completely and egg whites become white and frothy (about 1-1.5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and place the bowl back on the stand mixer.
Step 3: Whip Egg Whites
Fit your stand mixer with the 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 shake this mixture into the meringue bowl.
Step 5: Mix Batter
Place the bowl onto your stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Turn mixer to medium speed:
1. Whisk for about 10 seconds.
2. Stop the mixer and use a spatula to check if you can make a figure-eight with dripping batter without breaking it.
3. If not ready, mix another 5-10 seconds before checking again.
The ideal consistency resembles slow-moving lava; it should flow slowly but not break easily.
Step 6: Pipe Macaron Shells
- Once your batter reaches the right consistency, scoop it into a large pastry bag fitted with a 1-inch tip.
- Pipe silver dollar-sized circles onto prepared baking sheets while leaving about 1.5 inches between each meringue.
- Bang the baking sheet on the counter twice to remove air bubbles.
Step 7: Bake Macarons
You don’t need to let them air dry! Immediately place them in your preheated oven:
– Bake for 13 minutes, turning halfway through.
– Allow macarons to cool completely before removing them from baking sheets.
Step 8: Prepare Peanut Butter Filling
While macarons bake, make your filling:
1. Beat together peanut butter and butter until well combined.
2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt; beat until fluffy.
3. Scoop mixture into a piping bag fitted with a star tip until ready to assemble.
Step 9: Assemble Your Macarons
Once cooled:
1. Pipe the peanut butter filling onto one macaron shell.
2. Sandwich it with another macaron shell.
3. Optionally garnish with melted chocolate and chopped peanuts for added texture!
Now you have delightful Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons ready to impress! Enjoy sharing these sweet treats!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Chocolate peanut butter macarons are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering, these macarons pair wonderfully with various beverages and sides.
With Coffee or Espresso
- Rich Flavor Contrast: The boldness of coffee complements the sweet and nutty flavors of the macarons.
- Perfect Afternoon Snack: Enjoy during a cozy afternoon break or brunch with friends.
As Party Favors
- Elegant Presentation: Package them in small boxes with ribbons for a lovely touch.
- Personal Touch: Customize the packaging to match your event theme, making them memorable gifts.
With Milk or Plant-Based Alternatives
- Classic Pairing: The creaminess of milk balances the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter.
- Dairy-Free Options: Almond or oat milk can enhance the experience for those avoiding dairy.
On Dessert Platters
- Variety Showcase: Include alongside other desserts like brownies or fruits for an impressive dessert table.
- Colorful Display: Their vibrant colors add visual appeal to any dessert spread.
With Fresh Berries
- Refreshing Contrast: The tartness of berries like raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness, enhancing flavor.
- Healthy Addition: Provides a refreshing and nutritious element to your dessert offering.
How to Perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Making perfect chocolate peanut butter macarons requires practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success:
- Meringue Technique: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whisked.
- Sift Ingredients Thoroughly: Sifting almond flour and cocoa powder helps achieve a smooth batter, preventing graininess.
- Monitor Consistency Closely: The ideal batter should flow smoothly without breaking; adjust mixing time as needed.
- Use a Kitchen Scale: Weighing ingredients accurately ensures consistent results every time you bake these treats.
- Practice Piping Skills: Use a steady hand while piping, keeping uniform sizes for even cooking and aesthetic appeal.
- Cool Completely Before Filling: Allow macarons to cool fully before adding filling to prevent sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Pairing your chocolate peanut butter macarons with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich macarons.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip fruits or even the macarons themselves in warm chocolate for an indulgent experience.
- Mini Cheesecakes: These creamy delights complement the nutty flavors perfectly while offering variety on your plate.
- Nutty Granola Bars: Their crunch adds texture that pairs well with the soft macarons, creating an enjoyable eating experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a classic pairing that balances sweetness with creaminess.
- Coffee Cake Bites: These small bites add another layer of flavor while maintaining a delightful sweetness without overpowering the macarons.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of for perfect results.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to flat macarons. Gently fold until you reach a lava-like consistency.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause macarons to crack. Always use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
- Skipping the sifting step: Not sifting your dry ingredients can result in lumps. Sift almond flour and powdered sugar for a smoother batter.
- Not using aged egg whites: Fresh egg whites may not whip properly. Use egg whites that are at least 2-3 days old for better results.
- Underbaking the shells: Macarons need to set properly. Ensure they are fully baked by checking if they lift off the parchment easily.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep them in a single layer to avoid crushing.
Freezing Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
- Freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
- Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
- Oven: Preheat to 300°F and warm for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in 10-second intervals until just warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons.
How do I know when my macarons are done baking?
Macarons should have a smooth top and lift off the parchment paper cleanly. They should not be soft or sticky when touched.
Can I use different nut flours for macarons?
Yes, you can experiment with other nut flours, but almond flour is preferred for its texture and flavor profile.
Why did my macarons crack?
Cracking often occurs from improper mixing or baking temperature. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and check your oven’s accuracy.
What flavors pair well with Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons?
Flavors like vanilla, caramel, or even coffee complement chocolate and peanut butter nicely.
Can I make these macarons ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for preparing in advance.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons are not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize the filling with different flavors or toppings. Enjoy this heavenly treat any time, whether it’s a special occasion or just because!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 macarons 1x
Description
Indulge in the heavenly delight of Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons, where rich chocolate meets creamy peanut butter for an irresistible treat. These delicate French cookies boast a crispy shell and a luscious filling that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for any occasion—from celebrations to cozy evenings at home—these macarons are sure to impress. With a straightforward recipe that’s easy to follow, even beginner bakers can achieve stunning results. Customize the filling or toppings to suit your taste, and enjoy these elegant desserts that look as good as they taste!
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 (for filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Create meringue by whisking egg whites and sugar over a double boiler until frothy. Remove from heat and whip until stiff peaks form.
- Sift together almond flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar; fold into meringue gently until the batter flows like slow lava.
- Pipe batter onto prepared sheets and bang to release air bubbles.
- Bake for 13 minutes, turning halfway through, then cool completely.
- Beat together peanut butter and butter; mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until fluffy.
- Pipe filling between macaron shells, sandwiching them together.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 macaron (15g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
