Valentines Treats Raspberry Macarons

Name: Valentines Treats Raspberry Macarons
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 macarons
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup almond flour; 3 large egg whites, aged; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar; Food coloring (pink); 1 cup raspberries, mashed; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I absolutely love making raspberry macarons for Valentine's Day! The delicate almond shells paired with a tangy raspberry filling create a treat that's not only beautiful but also absolutely delicious. Every bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them an ideal gift for your loved ones or a delightful addition to your dessert table. Plus, the bright pink color is simply irresistible, adding a pop of cheer to any celebration.

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:50:37.372Z

When I first attempted making macarons, I was intimidated by the process. However, I quickly learned that with the right technique and a bit of patience, these delightful treats can be achieved at home. Using fresh raspberries for the filling not only offers a burst of flavor but also makes the process more enjoyable and rewarding.

One tip I discovered is to age your egg whites; letting them sit for a couple of days helps achieve that perfect meringue texture. My friends always rave about these macarons, especially during Valentine's Day, and I've even had some ask for the recipe to impress their own partners!

Why You'll Love These Macarons
Delicate almond shells filled with a fresh raspberry buttercream
A perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors for a romantic dessert
Eye-catching appearance, making them a showstopper for any occasion

Mastering Macaron Technique

One of the most critical aspects of making macarons is achieving the right consistency in the batter. When folding in the almond flour and powdered sugar mixture, be gentle. Over-mixing can lead to flat, spread-out macaron shells, while under-mixing can cause them to hold their shape poorly. Aim for a batter that flows smoothly from the spatula and has a glossy appearance. A good test is the 'figure-eight' technique: the batter should form a ribbon that holds its shape for a moment before disappearing into itself.

Timing is key when it comes to resting the piped macaron shells. Allow them to sit for at least 30 minutes until a skin forms before baking. This is crucial because it helps to create the characteristic 'feet' that macarons are known for. Proper skin formation prevents the batter from spreading too much in the oven, ensuring you get those beautiful, raised edges.

Flavor and Storage Tips

Regarding flavor, fresh raspberries bring a vibrant taste to the filling. If you're short on time or raspberries, you can substitute with raspberry puree or even raspberry jam, but be cautious with the amount of sugar added to the filling; adjust to ensure it doesn’t become overly sweet. However, using fresh raspberries gives a delightful tartness that complements the sweet shells beautifully and retains a lovely texture.

Once assembled, macarons store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can actually improve in flavor when left to rest for a day or two—this is known as aging the macarons. If you wish to keep them longer, they can also be frozen for up to a month. Just make sure to layer them between parchment paper to avoid sticking, and let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.

Ingredients

Macaron Shells

1 3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 cup almond flour
3 large egg whites, aged
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Food coloring (pink)

Raspberry Filling

1 cup raspberries, mashed
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Macaron Batter

In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar and almond flour together. In a separate bowl, whip the aged egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the almond mixture until combined, adding food coloring until desired shade is reached.

Pipe the Macarons

Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Tap the baking sheet to release air bubbles and let the macarons rest for 30 minutes until a skin forms.

Bake the Macarons

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 15 minutes, then allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.

Make the Raspberry Filling

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the mashed raspberries and vanilla extract. Mix until combined and smooth.

Assemble the Macarons

Pair the cooled macaron shells and pipe a generous amount of raspberry filling onto half of the shells. Top with the remaining shells to form sandwiches. Let them set in the fridge for at least an hour for the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

Make sure to weigh your ingredients for best results. Additionally, use a silicone mat for even baking and easy removal.

Common Troubleshooting

If your macarons don't develop the expected feet, it often comes down to the mixing technique or the resting period. Ensure you're not over-folding the batter, and always allow the piped shells to rest long enough. If they crack during baking, the oven temperature may be too high—consider using an oven thermometer to verify the accuracy of your oven's temperature setting.

Alternatively, if the shells come out too soft or flat, under-mixing or insufficient aging of the egg whites might be to blame. Always aim for room-temperature egg whites that have been aged for at least 24 hours; this helps stabilize them and leads to a more successful macaron.

Serving Suggestions

These raspberry macarons shine as a standalone treat, perfect for Valentine's Day or any celebration. Consider pairing them with a light, sparkling wine or bright tea, which can complement their flavors beautifully. For a more dramatic presentation, arrange the macarons on a tiered dessert stand with fresh raspberries and edible flowers to enhance the visual experience.

If you're embracing the romantic theme, package a dozen macarons in a decorative box or tin tied with a ribbon. This not only elevates the gift but also makes it memorable. Including a personalized note can add a heartfelt touch that your loved one will appreciate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries for the filling?

Yes, frozen raspberries can work, but make sure to drain excess liquid before mixing with buttercream.

→ How do I store macarons?

Store macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.

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

Cracking can be due to high temperatures or too much moisture in the batter. Adjust oven temperature and ensure proper resting time.

→ Can I flavor the macarons differently?

Absolutely! You can use different fruit purees or extracts to customize your macarons to your flavor preference.