Salted Caramel Macarons

Name: Salted Caramel Macarons
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 100 g Almond flour; 100 g Powdered sugar; 76 g Egg whites (2 large, room temperature); 100 g Granulated sugar; 100 g White chocolate chips; 120 ml Heavy cream; 50 g Salted butter caramel; Vanilla extract

Published: May 31, 2026

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of salted caramel and white chocolate ganache creates a deliciously rich taste that pairs wonderfully with the lightness of macarons.
Elegant Presentation: With their smooth shells and creamy filling, these macarons look sophisticated, making them an ideal dessert for special events.
Versatile Treat: Perfect as a gift or for celebrations, these macarons can be enjoyed at birthdays, weddings, or even as a sweet indulgence for yourself.
Easy to Follow: This recipe is straightforward with clear instructions, making it accessible even for beginners who want to try their hand at French pastries.
Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with different fillings or colors to suit your personal preference or occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into creating these exquisite Salted Caramel Macarons, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Mixing bowls
Sifter
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Piping bags
Oven thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for whipping egg whites to achieve that perfect meringue texture.
Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy surface for baking multiple trays of macarons simultaneously.
Piping bags: Allows for precise piping of macaron batter, ensuring uniform shapes and sizes.

Ingredients

Recipe for salted caramel macarons with white chocolate ganache flavored with salted butter caramel (for 20 macarons)

For the Macaron Shells

100 g (1 cup) Almond flour – Almond grounds
100 g (1 cup) Powdered sugar
2 x 38 g of egg whites – at room temperature (about 1/4 cup each, so 1/2 cup in total)
100 g (1/2 cup) Sugar – granulated

For the Salted Caramel Ganache Filling

2 tbsp (25 ml) Water
100 g (1/2 cup- 3.5 oz) White chocolate chips
120 ml (1/2 cup) Heavy cream – full fat
50 g (1/4 cup) salted butter caramel
1 tsp Vanilla extract
Extra salted caramel for the heart

How to Make Salted Caramel Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. You can use templates if you want perfectly sized macarons.

Step 2: Make the Macaron Batter

In a mixing bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar. This helps remove lumps and ensures a smooth texture.
In another bowl, whip the egg whites until they form soft peaks. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold in the dry ingredients into the meringue using a spatula until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix; aim for a lava-like consistency.

Step 3: Pipe the Macarons

Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, pipe small circles onto your prepared baking sheets. Leave some space between each macaron as they will spread slightly.

Step 4: Rest Before Baking

Let the piped macarons rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until they form a skin on top. This step is crucial for achieving those signature feet.

Step 5: Bake the Macarons

Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them during baking to ensure they don’t brown too much.

Step 6: Prepare the Ganache Filling

While the macarons cool, prepare your filling by heating heavy cream until it’s just about to boil. Pour it over white chocolate chips in a bowl along with salted butter caramel and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and let it cool until it thickens slightly.

Step 7: Assemble Your Macarons

Pair similar-sized macaron shells together. Pipe a dollop of ganache on one shell and top it with another shell gently pressing down. Drizzle extra salted caramel on top if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Salted Caramel Macarons! These treats are sure to impress everyone who tries them!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Macarons

Salted caramel macarons are not only delicious but also visually stunning. They make a great addition to any dessert table or special occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience with these sweet treats.

With Coffee

A perfect pairing: Enjoy salted caramel macarons alongside a rich espresso or creamy cappuccino for a delightful afternoon snack.

As Party Favors

Sweet surprises: Package individual macarons in cute boxes as party favors for weddings, birthdays, or baby showers. They add a personal touch to any celebration.

With Fresh Fruit

Colorful contrast: Serve salted caramel macarons with slices of fresh berries or citrus fruits. The acidity of the fruit balances the sweetness of the macarons beautifully.

On a Dessert Platter

Beautiful display: Arrange salted caramel macarons on a dessert platter with other pastries and sweets. This creates an elegant centerpiece at any gathering.

With Ice Cream

Indulgent combo: Pair salted caramel macarons with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream for an extra decadent dessert option.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Macarons

Achieving the ideal salted caramel macarons takes practice and precision. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your macarons turn out perfectly every time.

Measure ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for almond flour and powdered sugar, to achieve the right texture.
Sift dry ingredients: Sifting almond flour and powdered sugar helps eliminate clumps, ensuring a smooth batter and beautiful macaron shells.
Whip egg whites properly: Whip egg whites until they reach stiff peaks. This creates the necessary structure for your macarons.
Macaronage technique: Gently fold the batter until it flows like lava. Overmixing can lead to flat shells, while undermixing can cause them to crack.
Rest before baking: Let your piped macarons rest for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps form a skin on the surface, leading to the perfect rise during baking.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Macarons

Pairing side dishes with your salted caramel macarons can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options that complement their rich flavor.

Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the macarons.
Cheese Platter
Combine savory cheeses like brie or aged cheddar with honey and nuts for an elegant contrast to sweet desserts.
Chocolate Fondue
Dip strawberries, bananas, or pretzels into warm chocolate fondue as a fun side dish that pairs beautifully with macarons.
Mini Cheesecakes
Bite-sized cheesecakes provide a creamy counterpart that enhances the flavors of the salted caramel filling in the macarons.
Coffee Mousse
Light and airy coffee mousse complements the flavors in salted caramel macarons while providing a caffeine kick.
Panna Cotta
A smooth vanilla panna cotta adds elegance and pairs well with the rich taste of salted caramel without overwhelming it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making salted caramel macarons can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch for and how to prevent them.

Boldly ignore egg whites: Using egg whites that are not at room temperature can lead to unstable meringue. Always let them sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
Boldly skip the sifting: Not sifting your almond flour and powdered sugar can cause lumps in your macarons. Sift these dry ingredients together to ensure a smooth batter.
Boldly rush the folding: Overmixing or undermixing the batter can ruin your macarons’ texture. Fold gently until you achieve a lava-like consistency, ensuring proper air incorporation.
Boldly neglect the resting time: Skipping the resting phase before baking leads to cracked tops. Allow your piped macarons to rest for at least 30 minutes until they form a skin.
Boldly forget about the oven temperature: Baking at incorrect temperatures can cause uneven results. Always use an oven thermometer and adjust your oven settings accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store salted caramel macarons in an airtight container.
They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator without losing quality.

Freezing Salted Caramel Macarons

Place macarons in a single layer in an airtight container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months, preserving their deliciousness.

Reheating Salted Caramel Macarons

Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for about 5 minutes for best texture.
Microwave: Use low power (10-20 seconds) just to soften without cooking them further.
Stovetop: Place on a warm skillet briefly, turning occasionally, but this method is less recommended as it may affect texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make salted caramel macarons?

Start with preparing meringue by whipping egg whites. Combine with sifted dry ingredients and pipe onto baking sheets. Fill with salted caramel ganache after baking.

What is the best way to fill my salted caramel macarons?

Use a piping bag for an even fill of salted caramel ganache or extra salted caramel in the center for added flavor.

Can I customize my salted caramel macarons?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors by adding extracts or fillings like chocolate ganache or fruit preserves.

Why did my macarons crack?

Cracking usually occurs due to high humidity or oven temperature issues. Ensure proper resting and check your oven’s accuracy with a thermometer.

How should I store leftover salted caramel macarons?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, consuming them within five days for optimal taste.

Final Thoughts

Salted caramel macarons are not only visually stunning but also offer a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and colors, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and impress your family and friends with these delectable treats!

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