If you have ever dreamed of combining two heavenly flavors into one elegant treat, then this Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Rich, glossy chocolate shells envelop a luscious peanut butter filling that is perfectly sweet and satisfyingly creamy. These macarons are not only a dazzling addition to any dessert spread but also a fun project that promises rewarding results with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying macarons for the very first time, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a look and flavor that will impress friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these exquisite Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons, you only need a handful of essential ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver the perfect texture, vibrant color, and irresistible flavor. Each item plays a crucial role in transforming humble pantry staples into a silky, delicate confection.
- 100 grams egg whites: The base of the meringue, providing structure and that iconic macaron crispness.
- 100 grams granulated sugar: Sweetens the egg whites and helps stabilize the meringue for a glossy finish.
- 100 grams almond flour: Adds nutty richness and the classic chewy bite to the shells.
- 100 grams powdered sugar: Combines with almond flour for smoothness and sweetness in the shells.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides a deep chocolate flavor and a beautiful dark hue.
- 1/4 cup butter: Creamy richness for the peanut butter filling that melts in your mouth.
- 1/3 cup peanut butter: The star of the filling, offering that beloved nutty taste and smooth texture.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for filling): Elevates the filling’s sweetness and creates the perfect fluffy consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic contrast to the peanut butter.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor depth.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by heating your oven to a gentle 300°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This subtle temperature ensures your macarons bake evenly to develop their characteristic shiny crust without cracking.
Step 2: Whisk Egg Whites and Sugar Over Heat
In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, whisk together egg whites and granulated sugar until the sugar dissolves completely. This warming step helps create a base for a stable meringue with a glossy shine and beautiful volume.
Step 3: Whip the Meringue to Stiff Peaks
Transfer the warm egg white mixture to your mixer and beat on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form. This takes patience but it’s the magic that gives macarons their airy, delicate structure.
Step 4: Sift Dry Ingredients into the Meringue
Combine almond flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar, then sift them carefully into the meringue. This ensures no lumps disrupt your smooth batter and contributes to the macarons’ even texture and rich chocolate color.
Step 5: Fold Until the Batter Flows Smoothly
Using a spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue, blending just enough to create a batter that flows like lava and falls off the spatula in thick ribbons. This stage is crucial for perfect feet and the right consistency.
Step 6: Pipe and Rest the Shells
Pipe small circles of batter onto your prepared parchment. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes so a skin forms on the surface. This resting period is essential to help your macarons bake evenly and develop their signature texture.
Step 7: Bake and Rotate Halfway
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 13 minutes, rotating halfway for even heat exposure. Once baked, let the shells cool completely on the sheets before handling.
Step 8: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
While the shells cool, beat together butter and peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, then continue beating until the filling is fluffy and smooth, perfect for piping.
Step 9: Assemble Your Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Pipe the peanut butter filling onto the flat side of half the shells, then gently sandwich with the remaining shells. Press lightly to spread the filling evenly without cracking the shells.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, consider sprinkling a few crushed roasted peanuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top of your macarons. A drizzle of melted chocolate can also add a glossy finish that makes each macaron look like a little masterpiece.
Side Dishes
Chocolate peanut butter macarons pair wonderfully with a cup of fresh espresso or creamy hot chocolate. The rich coffee notes and velvety warmth complement the nutty-sweet filling and chocolate shells beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these macarons in a decorative jar or serving them on a tiered dessert stand to showcase their delicate allure. Wrapping individual macarons in translucent cellophane with ribbons also makes a thoughtful gift, perfect for parties or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store your macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep their texture intact and the peanut butter filling fresh. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.
Freezing
Macarons freeze surprisingly well! Place them in a single layer in an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to prevent condensation from affecting the texture.
Reheating
Since macarons are delicate, avoid high heat. Instead, take them out of the fridge or freezer and allow them to come to room temperature naturally. This keeps the shells crisp and the filling creamy without any melting mishaps.
FAQs
Can I use peanut butter with chunks for the filling?
Chunky peanut butter may add an unexpected texture inside your macarons, which some people enjoy! However, for the smoothest filling and classic macaron feel, creamy peanut butter is recommended.
Do I have to use almond flour and can I substitute it?
Almond flour is key to traditional macarons, offering structure and flavor that cannot be completely replicated. Substitutes like other nut flours may alter texture and taste significantly.
How do I know when the macarons have rested enough before baking?
The shells are ready when you can gently touch the surface and it feels dry, not sticky, and a thin skin has formed. This usually takes around 30 minutes but can vary depending on humidity.
What causes macarons to crack or not develop feet?
Cracks or missing feet can occur if the batter is overmixed or undermixed, if the oven temperature is too high, or if the shells don’t rest properly before baking. Attention to these details helps achieve perfect macarons.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! The peanut butter filling can be made 1–2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick whip before assembling your macarons.
Final Thoughts
Making these Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons Recipe is such a delightful adventure that combines technique with delicious rewards. The marriage of rich chocolate shells and creamy peanut butter filling feels like a little celebration with every bite. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy sharing these beautiful treats with your loved ones as much as I have.
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings (about 24 macarons)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the perfect combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter with these elegant Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these macarons are a sophisticated treat that blend the nutty flavor of peanut butter with the deep taste of cocoa in a delicate French meringue cookie.
Ingredients
Macaron Shells
- 100 grams egg whites
- 100 grams granulated sugar
- 100 grams almond flour
- 100 grams powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Peanut Butter Filling
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/3 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking the macarons.
- Dissolve sugar in egg whites: In a bowl placed over simmering water, whisk the egg whites and granulated sugar together until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a smooth mixture.
- Whip meringue: Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer and whip on high speed until stiff peaks form, ensuring the meringue is glossy and firm.
- Sift dry ingredients: Sift the almond flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar into the meringue to avoid lumps and create a fine texture.
- Fold batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue using a spatula until the batter is smooth and flows slowly off the spatula, taking care not to deflate the mixture.
- Pipe shells: Pipe small, evenly sized circles onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheets, then let them rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to form a skin on top.
- Bake macarons: Bake the shells in the preheated oven for 13 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through for even baking. Remove and cool completely on the baking sheets.
- Prepare filling: While the shells cool, beat together softened butter and peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until the filling is light and fluffy.
- Assemble macarons: Pipe the peanut butter filling onto the flat side of half the macaron shells, then sandwich with the remaining shells to form pairs.
Notes
- Allow the macaron shells to rest before baking to develop a smooth, shiny skin which helps create the classic ‘feet’ texture.
- Be careful folding the batter to retain air for a light texture; overmixing can cause flat macarons.
- Use room temperature ingredients for best mixing results, especially the butter and peanut butter for the filling.
- Store macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Bring macarons to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor and texture.
