Nutella Macarons

Crispy, chewy Nutella Macarons are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant parties. These bite-sized almond meringue cookies filled with creamy Nutella are not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. Their unique texture and rich flavor make them an irresistible addition to dessert tables or afternoon tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of almond and Nutella creates a rich, nutty flavor that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, gifts, or simply indulging yourself at home.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll be whipping these up in no time.
• Impressive Presentation: These macarons look stunning and are sure to wow your guests.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different fillings if you’re looking for variety!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Nutella Macarons, gather all your tools and prepare your workspace.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Sifter
• Piping bags

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Essential for achieving the perfect meringue consistency with stiff peaks.
• Sifter: Helps combine the almond flour and powdered sugar smoothly for a flawless macaron shell.

Ingredients

Crispy, chewy almond meringue cookies filled with creamy Nutella — a heavenly bite-sized treat!

For the Macaron Shells

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup almond flour
• 2 large egg whites, room temp
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup Nutella (or more, as needed)

How to Make Nutella Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the macarons from sticking.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

Sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar in a bowl. This ensures a smooth batter without lumps.

Step 3: Whip Egg Whites

In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Mix in vanilla extract gently.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Fold the almond-sugar mixture into the whipped egg whites carefully. The batter should flow like lava when done; be gentle to maintain volume.

Step 5: Pipe the Macarons

Fill a piping bag with the batter. Pipe 1-inch rounds onto prepared baking sheets. Tap the trays on the counter to release any air bubbles. Let them sit for 30–45 minutes until their tops are dry to the touch.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake macarons for 14–16 minutes until they have risen but still have a soft interior. Let them cool completely on wire racks.

Step 7: Assemble

Once cool, pipe Nutella onto one macaron shell and sandwich it with another shell.

Step 8: Rest

For the best texture, store assembled macarons in the fridge for at least 24 hours before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Nutella Macarons!

How to Serve Nutella Macarons

Nutella Macarons are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a party, casual gathering, or a quiet afternoon snack, these cookies can elevate any occasion.

Pair with Coffee

• Espresso: The rich and bold flavor of espresso complements the sweetness of Nutella perfectly.
• Cappuccino: Frothy and creamy, cappuccino adds a delightful touch to your macaron experience.

Enjoy with Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich filling.
• Bananas: Slices of banana add a soft texture that pairs well with the crunchy macaron shell.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cheesecakes: Serve Nutella Macarons alongside mini cheesecakes for an impressive dessert spread.
• Chocolate Truffles: Rich chocolate truffles can enhance the indulgent theme of your platter.

Add Whipped Cream

• Vanilla Whipped Cream: A dollop of light vanilla whipped cream offers a fluffy counterpart to the dense filling.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Experiment with flavors like hazelnut or chocolate for added depth.

How to Perfect Nutella Macarons

Making perfect Nutella Macarons requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some essential tips to achieve macarons that look and taste incredible.

• Boldly sift your dry ingredients: This ensures a smooth batter and helps prevent lumps in your macaron shells.
• Boldly whip egg whites correctly: Beat them until you reach stiff peaks; this is crucial for the structure of the shells.
• Boldly fold gently: When mixing in the almond flour and powdered sugar, use a gentle folding motion to keep air in the batter.
• Boldly let them rest: Allowing the piped macarons to sit before baking helps form a skin, which leads to that signature ‘foot.’
• Boldly monitor baking time: Every oven is different; check your macarons regularly to avoid overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Nutella Macarons

Nutella Macarons can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and contrast to the sweet macarons.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit creates a creamy texture that balances the crunchiness of the macarons.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone for a savory touch that pairs well with sweet desserts.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fresh fruits or even extra macaron shells into warm chocolate for an indulgent experience.
5. Tea Selection: Offer a variety of herbal or black teas that complement the nutty flavors of Nutella without overpowering them.
6. Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty flavor of pistachio ice cream provides a delightful pairing with Nutella’s hazelnut notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Nutella Macarons can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve perfect results.

• Boldly skipping ingredient sifting – Not sifting almond flour and powdered sugar can lead to lumps in your batter. Always sift for a smooth consistency.
• Boldly ignoring egg white temperature – Using cold egg whites prevents proper whipping. Ensure they are at room temperature for best results.
• Boldly underestimating resting time – Skipping the resting period before baking may result in cracked shells. Allow 30–45 minutes for a dry surface.
• Boldly overmixing the batter – Overmixing can deflate the meringue. Fold gently until the batter flows like lava to maintain airiness.
• Boldly baking without monitoring – Oven temperatures vary; keep an eye on your macarons while baking to avoid over- or undercooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Nutella Macarons in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Nutella Macarons

• Freeze unfilled shells for up to 2 months.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Nutella Macarons

• Oven – Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.
• Microwave – Use low power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop – Use a non-stick pan on low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries about Nutella Macarons that might help you perfect your baking skills.

How do I make my Nutella Macarons shiny?

A shiny finish often comes from properly whipped meringue and letting the shells rest before baking. Follow the resting instructions closely.

Can I use other fillings besides Nutella?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other spreads like chocolate ganache or fruit preserves to customize your macarons.

What is the best way to pipe Nutella into macarons?

Use a piping bag fitted with a round tip for precise application. Pipe onto one shell and gently sandwich with another.

How can I avoid hollow macarons?

Ensure you have mixed your batter correctly and avoid overbaking. The right texture leads to solid, chewy macarons instead of hollow ones.

Final Thoughts

Nutella Macarons are not only delicious but also versatile treats perfect for any occasion. You can customize them by trying different fillings or adding flavors like coffee or mint. Give this recipe a try, and impress your friends and family with these delightful bites!