Macarons with Molasses Buttercream: 5 Festive Tips

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Macarons with Molasses Buttercream are a delightful treat that perfectly combine the elegance of French pastry with the warm, comforting flavors of fall and winter. These delicate sweets feature rich almond meringue shells, infused with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, and are filled with a smooth and creamy molasses buttercream. Ideal for festive occasions or a cozy afternoon snack, these macarons are sure to impress anyone who tastes them.

Why You’ll Love This Macarons with Molasses Buttercream

There are numerous reasons to adore these molasses macarons. First, they have a unique flavor profile that stands out from traditional macarons. The combination of molasses and spices creates a gratifying taste that evokes the warmth of the holidays. Second, they are visually stunning, perfect for special occasions, and can be decorated with white chocolate and festive sprinkles for added flair. Third, these macarons are gluten-free, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Additionally, they are straightforward to make, and I’ll share tips to ensure your macarons turn out perfect every time. The sweet molasses macarons recipe is not only delightful but also brings a touch of creativity to your baking repertoire.

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Ingredients for Macarons with Molasses Buttercream

Gather these items:

137 grams super fine almond flour (about 1 ½ cups)
117 grams confectioners’ sugar (about 1 cup)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground cloves
100 grams egg whites (about 3 large egg whites), at room temperature
110 grams super fine white sugar (about 1 cup + 2 teaspoons)
1-2 teaspoons brown gel food coloring (Chefmaster Buckeye Brown recommended)
57 grams (2 ounces) white chocolate, melted
2 tablespoons gingerbread men sprinkles
½ cup (114 grams) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups (210 grams) confectioners’ sugar
1 tablespoon (20 grams) fancy molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Macarons with Molasses Buttercream Step-by-Step

Step 1: Sift 137 grams of super fine almond flour and 117 grams of confectioners’ sugar into a large mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon ground cloves. Whisk until well combined.
Step 2: Place 100 grams of room temperature egg whites into a stand mixer. Beat on low speed until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes. Gradually add 110 grams superfine white sugar, increasing speed to medium. Beat until medium peaks form, then whip until stiff peaks form, approximately 2 more minutes. Add 1-2 teaspoons brown gel food coloring and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Sift the dry ingredients into the meringue. Gently fold the mixture with a rubber spatula. Do not overmix; the batter should flow off the spatula in ribbons.
Step 4: Transfer the batter into a piping bag with a medium to large round tip. Pipe 1 to 1 ½ inch circles onto a lined baking sheet. Tap the sheet to release air bubbles and pop remaining bubbles with a toothpick.
Step 5: Let the piped shells rest at room temperature for 8 minutes to 1 hour until a thin, dry ‘skin’ forms.
Step 6: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake macarons for 15 to 20 minutes. They are done when the tops are firm. Cool completely before removing.
Step 7: Melt 57 grams white chocolate. Drizzle on half of the cooled macaron tops and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons gingerbread men sprinkles. Let set.
Step 8: In a bowl, beat ½ cup softened unsalted butter, 1 ¾ cups confectioners’ sugar, 1 tablespoon molasses, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until creamy.
Step 9: Fill a piping bag with the molasses buttercream. Pipe onto the flat-bottom halves of the macaron shells and sandwich with decorated tops.
Step 10: Refrigerate assembled macarons overnight to allow flavors to meld.

Pro Tips for the Best Macarons with Molasses Buttercream

Keep these in mind:

Optionally decorate with white chocolate and gingerbread sprinkles.
Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements.
Ensure your mixing bowl is grease-free for the meringue to whip properly.
Practice piping to achieve uniform shapes.
Rest the piped macarons until a skin forms for the best results.

Best Ways to Serve Macarons with Molasses Buttercream

These macarons are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience. Pair them with a cup of spiced tea or coffee for a comforting treat. They also make an elegant addition to dessert platters, especially during the holiday season. For a twist, consider offering macarons with caramel buttercream alongside them for guests to enjoy a variety of flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Macarons with Molasses Buttercream

Store your assembled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The macarons will taste even better as they sit, allowing the flavors to meld. Refrain from freezing them, as this affects the texture of the shells. Instead, focus on making these macarons fresh and enjoying them at their best!

Frequently Asked Questions About Macarons with Molasses Buttercream

What is molasses buttercream?

Molasses buttercream is a rich, creamy frosting made by blending unsalted butter, confectioners’ sugar, molasses, and vanilla extract. It adds a unique flavor to homemade macarons with molasses frosting, making them a delightful treat.

Can I make Macarons with Molasses Buttercream ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the macaron shells ahead of time and fill them with molasses buttercream on the day of serving for optimal freshness. They can be stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Macarons with Molasses Buttercream?

To avoid mistakes, ensure accurate measurements and proper mixing techniques. Follow the instructions closely, especially when it comes to resting the piped macarons before baking, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Variations of Macarons with Molasses Buttercream You Can Try

There are plenty of creative macaron ideas with molasses flavors to experiment with. Consider adding chocolate chips to the buttercream for a chocolate-molasses combination. You could also explore seasonal flavors by incorporating pumpkin spice or nutmeg for a festive twist. Other variations include gluten-free macarons with molasses filling to cater to different dietary preferences.

For more festive recipes, check out our Gingerbread Tiramisu or Pumpkin Molasses Cookies. If you’re looking for a delightful dessert, try our Cranberry Custard Pie or Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies for a sweet treat.