Macarons have long been a symbol of elegance and delicate flavor in the world of desserts. Combining the airy, crisp shells with a luscious Nutella filling takes this classic French treat to a whole new level. It’s a perfect balance of texture and taste that’s sure to impress both friends and family.
In this Nutella macaron recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to create these irresistible delights right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find the process rewarding and the results absolutely delicious. Let’s dive into making these charming, chocolate-hazelnut bites that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Nutella Macaron, we need precise ingredients for both the delicate shells and the luscious Nutella filling. Here is everything we’ll need to get started.
For the Macaron Shells
- 1 cup (120g) almond flour, finely ground and sifted
- 1 ¾ cups (200g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, for stability)
- A pinch of salt
- Food coloring (optional, to enhance appearance)
For the Nutella Filling
- ¾ cup (200g) Nutella (hazelnut chocolate spread)
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon heavy cream (to adjust consistency if needed)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Almond flour | 1 cup (120g) | Finely ground, sifted |
| Powdered sugar | 1 ¾ cups (200g) | Sifted |
| Egg whites | 3 large | Room temperature |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup (50g) | |
| Cream of tartar | ¼ teaspoon | Optional |
| Salt | Pinch | |
| Food coloring | As desired | Optional |
| Nutella | ¾ cup (200g) | |
| Unsalted butter | ¼ cup (60g) | Softened |
| Heavy cream | 1 teaspoon | Optional to adjust texture |
These carefully measured ingredients will ensure our Nutella Macarons achieve their signature smooth shells and rich, creamy filling.
Equipment Needed
To achieve perfect Nutella macarons we need the right equipment that ensures precision and consistency throughout the process. Using the appropriate tools minimizes error and helps us create those signature smooth and airy shells with ease.
Essential Tools for Nutella Macaron Shells
- Mixing Bowls: Use large, clean, and dry bowls for whipping egg whites and folding almond flour mixtures.
- Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer is crucial for whipping egg whites to stiff peaks.
- Sifter or Fine Mesh Sieve: To sift almond flour and powdered sugar, ensuring no lumps and a smooth batter.
- Silicone Spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients gently without deflating the meringue.
- Piping Bag with Round Tip (approx. 1/2 inch): For piping uniform round macaron shells.
- Baking Sheets: Preferably heavy-duty and flat for even baking.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: Provides a non-stick surface and helps in easy removal of delicate shells.
- Thermometer (optional): Useful for checking sugar syrup temperature if making Italian meringue variations.
Necessary Tools for Nutella Filling
- Mixing Bowl: For combining Nutella, butter, and cream.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk: To blend the filling until smooth and creamy.
- Spatula: To spread or pipe the Nutella filling between shells.
Additional Helpful Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Kitchen Scale | Measures ingredients precisely by weight |
| Oven Thermometer | Ensures accurate oven temperature for even baking |
| Cooling Rack | Provides proper airflow under macarons as they cool |
“Precision and patience in equipment choice and usage directly impact the quality of our Nutella macarons.“
Together, these tools help us execute each step with confidence and accuracy, turning the baking process into an enjoyable experience that leads to flawless results.
Prep Work
Before we dive into assembling our delicious Nutella Macarons, thorough prep work will ensure smooth baking and perfect results. Let’s get everything ready step by step to make the process seamless.
Preparing the Baking Sheets
To achieve the signature smooth and flat macaron shells, it’s essential to prepare our baking sheets properly.
- Line each heavy-duty baking sheet with silicone baking mats or parchment paper. These create a non-stick surface allowing the macarons to release effortlessly after baking.
- Avoid greasing the surface as this can cause spreading and uneven rising.
- Arrange two baking sheets ready, so we can bake multiple batches efficiently without waiting between rounds.
Sifting the Dry Ingredients
Sifting is a critical step for smooth, lump-free macaron batter and helps prevent cracked shells.
- Combine almond flour and powdered sugar in a large sifter.
- Sift together at least two times to aerate the mixture and remove any clumps.
- Use a fine-mesh sieve if you don’t have a dedicated sifter.
- The goal: a light, fluffy blend of dry ingredients that will fold smoothly into the whipped egg whites.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Almond Flour | As specified | Fresh and finely ground |
| Powdered Sugar | As specified | Sifted twice |
Whipping the Egg Whites
Perfectly whipped egg whites form the airy structure of our macaron shells.
- Use room temperature egg whites for maximum volume.
- Start beating at medium speed with an electric mixer until foamy.
- Add cream of tartar to stabilize the whites.
- Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to whip.
- Whip until stiff, glossy peaks form—test by lifting the whisk; peaks should stand tall without collapsing.
- Do not overbeat or underbeat as both affect the texture and shape of the shells.
“Stiff peaks are the backbone of flawless macarons.”
Following these careful prep steps lays a strong foundation for crafting our Nutella Macaron Recipe with the desired delicate texture and stunning appearance.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create delicate Nutella macarons with perfectly smooth shells and a rich filling. Follow these detailed instructions closely for flawless results.
Making the Macaron Batter
- Sift almond flour and powdered sugar together twice into a large bowl. This aerates the mixture and removes any lumps, crucial for the macaron’s smooth surface.
- In a separate clean bowl, whip the egg whites with an electric mixer. Start at medium speed until foamy, then add cream of tartar and granulated sugar gradually.
- Increase speed to high and whip until the egg whites hold stiff, glossy peaks. This meringue provides the essential structure for firm yet airy shells.
- Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the meringue using a silicone spatula. Use a technique called macaronage: fold and press the batter against the bowl’s sides until it flows like thick lava but does not run too freely.
- If desired, add food coloring here and fold gently just enough to swirl the color evenly without deflating the batter.
Piping the Macarons
- Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a plain round tip.
- Pipe uniform circles, about 1.5 inches in diameter, onto prepared baking sheets lined with silicone mats or parchment paper.
- Keep about 1 inch of space between each piped shell to allow slight spreading.
- Tap the baking sheet firmly on the counter 2-3 times to release any trapped air bubbles that could cause cracks.
Resting the Macarons
- Allow the piped shells to rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until they form a dry, firm skin on top.
- Test the skin by gently touching the surface—it should not stick to your finger.
- Resting creates the signature “feet” during baking and prevents cracking.
| Resting Time | Skin Formation | Macaron Feet Development |
|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | Light | Moderate |
| 45 minutes | Firm | Pronounced |
| 60 minutes | Very firm | Distinct |
Baking the Macarons
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) ensuring stable temperature with an oven thermometer.
- Place one baking sheet in the center rack and bake for 15-18 minutes.
- Rotate the sheet halfway through baking for even heat distribution.
- The macarons are done when they have risen with feet and can be gently lifted from the mat without sticking.
- Remove from oven and cool completely on a cooling rack before filling.
Preparing the Nutella Filling
To achieve the perfect balance between the delicate macaron shells and the rich Nutella filling, we must focus on the filling’s smoothness and spreadability. Follow these steps carefully to create a luscious, creamy center that complements the airy shells flawlessly.
Ingredients for the Nutella Filling
- ½ cup Nutella (room temperature)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, to adjust consistency)
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Soften the Butter
Begin by ensuring your unsalted butter is at room temperature. This softness allows for effortless blending, giving the filling a creamy texture.
- Combine Butter and Nutella
In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter and Nutella. Use an electric mixer or hand whisk to beat the ingredients together on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth, light, and homogeneous.
- Adjust Consistency with Heavy Cream
If necessary, slowly add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream. Beat the filling again and check the consistency. The filling should be spreadable but not runny. Add the second tablespoon only if the texture is still too thick.
- Chill the Filling
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps firm up the filling for easier piping and prevents it from oozing out of the macarons during assembly.
Tips for Perfect Nutella Filling
- Use softened butter not melted butter to maintain the right texture.
- Ensure Nutella is at room temperature for smooth blending.
- Add heavy cream gradually to avoid a filling that is too loose.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Nutella | ½ cup | Room temperature |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Softened |
| Heavy cream | 1–2 tablespoons (optional) | Use to adjust texture |
“The key to a silky Nutella filling lies in balancing the butter’s softness and the right amount of heavy cream.“
Once the filling is prepared and chilled, we are ready to pipe it onto our perfectly cooled macaron shells to assemble these irresistible Nutella macarons.
Assembling the Nutella Macarons
To assemble the Nutella macarons perfectly, follow these precise steps to ensure that each bite offers the ideal balance of delicate shell and creamy filling.
Step 1: Pairing the Shells
- Sort the cooled macaron shells by size.
- Match shells with similar diameters to create even sandwich pairs.
- This ensures uniformity and a professional presentation.
Step 2: Preparing the Nutella Filling for Piping
- Transfer the chilled Nutella filling into a piping bag fitted with a round tip (about ½ inch).
- Apply gentle pressure to release a smooth, consistent flow of filling.
Step 3: Filling the Macarons
- Pipe a dollop of Nutella filling onto the flat side of one macaron shell.
- Start from the center and move outward if needed to cover most of the surface but leave a small border near the edge.
- This prevents the filling from oozing out when sandwiching.
Step 4: Sandwiching the Shells
- Gently press the second matching shell on top of the filled one.
- Apply even pressure but avoid pressing too hard to prevent cracking the shell or squeezing out the filling.
- The filling should spread slightly to the edges but not squeeze out.
Step 5: Resting the Assembled Macarons
- Place the assembled macarons on a flat tray or plate.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld and texture to mature.
“Resting is key to achieving that signature chewy yet crisp texture and intensifying the Nutella flavor inside.”
Important Tips for Assembling Nutella Macarons
| Step | Tip | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Shell Pairing | Match sizes carefully | Ensures even sandwiches |
| Filling Piping | Use a round tip and steady pressure | Smooth consistent filling flow |
| Filling Amount | Leave a small clean border | Prevents filling from oozing out |
| Sandwiching | Press gently without cracking shells | Maintains shell structure |
| Resting | Refrigerate 24 hours before serving | Improves flavor and texture |
Final Presentation
Before serving, allow the macarons to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. This enhances the creamy richness of the Nutella filling while maintaining the delicate crunch of the shells.
By carefully following these assembly steps, our Nutella macarons will showcase their iconic texture and rich flavor perfectly on every occasion.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is key to preserving the delicate texture and rich flavor of our Nutella macarons. Follow these tips to enjoy them at their freshest.
Refrigeration
- Store assembled macarons in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption and odors from other foods.
- Place a parchment paper sheet between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.
- Keep macarons in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This resting period enhances flavor melding and texture but do not exceed this to maintain shell crispness.
Freezing
- For longer storage, freeze macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm (about 1 hour).
- Transfer frozen macarons to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
- Freeze safely for up to 1 month.
Thawing
- To thaw, place macarons in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours or overnight to prevent condensation.
- Before serving, let them come to room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes to restore the creamy richness of the Nutella filling and the delicate crunch of the shells.
Storage Summary Table
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | Up to 5 days | Separate layers with parchment paper |
| Freezing | Airtight container or freezer bag | Up to 1 month | Freeze individually first on baking sheet |
| Thawing | Refrigerator | 4–6 hours | Avoid direct thaw at room temperature to prevent moisture |
By carefully following these guidelines, we maximize the shelf life and enjoyment of our homemade Nutella macarons without compromising their quality.
Conclusion
Mastering Nutella macarons is a rewarding experience that blends precision with creativity. With patience and attention to detail, we can create these delicate treats that impress both in flavor and presentation.
Whether for special occasions or everyday indulgence, Nutella macarons offer a perfect balance of airy shells and rich filling that’s hard to resist. By following the steps carefully, we set ourselves up for success every time.
Let’s keep exploring and perfecting our baking skills, knowing that each batch brings us closer to macaron mastery. Enjoy every bite of these elegant delights!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Nutella macarons?
For the shells: almond flour, powdered sugar, egg whites, granulated sugar, cream of tartar, salt, and optional food coloring. For the filling: Nutella, unsalted butter, and heavy cream.
What equipment do I need to bake Nutella macarons?
You’ll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer, a sifter, a silicone spatula, a piping bag, heavy-duty baking sheets, a kitchen scale, an oven thermometer, and a cooling rack.
How do I prepare the macaron shells before baking?
Line baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper, sift dry ingredients twice, whip egg whites to stiff peaks, and gently fold dry ingredients into the meringue.
How do I know when the macarons are ready to bake?
Pipe uniform circles of batter on the baking sheet and let them rest until a dry skin forms on top before baking.
What is the best way to make Nutella filling?
Combine softened unsalted butter with room temperature Nutella, adjust texture with heavy cream if needed, and chill the mixture before piping.
How should I assemble Nutella macarons?
Pair shells by size, pipe filling evenly, gently sandwich shells, refrigerate for at least 24 hours, then bring to room temperature before serving.
How do I store Nutella macarons to keep them fresh?
Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; freeze in a single layer for up to 1 month.
Can beginners successfully make Nutella macarons?
Yes, the article’s detailed step-by-step guide makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.