As I was rummaging through my pantry, I stumbled upon a box of snack cakes that instantly shot me back to my childhood. It sparked an idea—why not transform these nostalgic flavors into something whimsical and festive? Enter the Christmas Tree Cake Macarons, a delightful holiday treat that captures the essence of the season. These vibrant green treasures are not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to whip up in under two hours, making them a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser, putting a charming twist on traditional macarons while satisfying that sweet tooth. Are you ready to bring a touch of magic to your holiday dessert table?
Why are Christmas Tree Cake Macarons special?
Whimsical Appeal: These macarons are not just desserts; they are festive works of art that bring holiday spirit to any table.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy bakers, you can create these delicious treats in under two hours without compromising quality.
Nostalgic Flavor: With crumbled snack cakes in the filling, each bite delivers a delightful reminder of childhood sweetness.
Versatile Treat: Whether served on a festive platter or packaged as gifts, they’re sure to impress family and friends.
If you enjoy holiday baking, you might also love making some Cozy Jam Cake to complement these macarons!
Christmas Tree Cake Macaron Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells
- Powdered Sugar – Essential for texture and sweetness; no substitutes recommended.
- Almond Flour – Creates the unique structure and flavor of macarons; substitute with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option.
- Egg Whites – Fundamental for achieving an airy structure; using room temperature helps them whip better.
- Granulated Sugar – Stabilizes the egg whites, contributing to the macaron’s firmness; no substitutions allowed.
- Cream of Tartar – A crucial ingredient that helps stabilize the egg whites; no substitutes recommended.
- Green Gel Food Coloring – Adds a festive hue to your macarons; optional to adjust based on your color preference.
For the Filling
- Butter – Brings richness to the filling; switch to vegan butter for a delightful dairy-free alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Vital for enhancing the overall flavor profile of the filling; no substitutions recommended.
- Heavy Cream – Softens the filling’s texture and adds luxurious richness; full-fat coconut cream works for a dairy-free version.
- Salt – Balances the filling’s sweetness, enhancing all flavors; no substitutes recommended.
- Snack Cakes (crumbled) – Infuses the filling with nostalgic flavor and texture; feel free to use vanilla or holiday-themed cakes for variation.
These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are an enchanting addition to your holiday dessert lineup, blending whimsy, flavor, and easy preparation into one delightful treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Step 1: Sift Dry Ingredients
Begin by sifting the powdered sugar and almond flour together in a mixing bowl. This process should be done twice to ensure there are no lumps, resulting in a smooth macaron shell. Use a fine-mesh sieve or sifter, and set this dry mixture aside as you prepare the egg whites, which are essential for your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
Step 2: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the room temperature egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until they form a foamy base. Gradually add the cream of tartar, then increase the speed to medium-high, adding granulated sugar little by little until stiff peaks form. This process takes about 5-7 minutes. The result should appear glossy and hold its shape, providing the perfect airy structure for your macarons.
Step 3: Add Color and Fold
Once your egg whites are whipped to perfection, gently mix in a few drops of green gel food coloring until evenly incorporated. It’s time to shorten your batter by carefully folding in the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture with a spatula. Aim for a consistency that flows like lava; this process takes about 30 seconds, so be cautious not to overmix, which could deflate your whipped egg whites.
Step 4: Pipe the Batter
Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe the batter into tree shapes or generous circles about 1.5 inches in diameter, leaving space between each for expansion. After piping, let the macarons rest at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes until a skin forms on the surface, which is essential for that distinctive macaron “foot.”
Step 5: Bake the Shells
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Once the macarons have rested and formed a skin, place them in the oven and bake for 14 to 16 minutes. Rotate the trays halfway through to ensure even baking. You’ll know they are done when they have risen slightly and developed a smooth surface, ready to cool into delightful Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
Step 6: Cool and Remove
After baking, allow the macaron shells to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, gently peel them off the parchment or silicone mat and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to maintain the texture of your macaron shells, which should be smooth and slightly crisp with a chewy center.
Step 7: Prepare the Filling
To create the filling, beat softened butter in a mixing bowl until fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and salt, mixing until fully combined. Finally, fold in the crumbled snack cakes to incorporate a nostalgic flavor into your filling. This creamy mixture beautifully complements your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
Step 8: Assemble the Macarons
Pair similar-sized macaron shells together and pipe a generous amount of your filling onto the flat side of one shell. Gently press the other shell on top to form a sandwich. For an extra festive touch, drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with colorful holiday sprinkles or place an edible gold star on top.
Step 9: Refrigerate for Flavor
Place the assembled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste and texture. Once chilled, they are ready to dazzle your guests at any holiday gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are a fantastic choice for make-ahead baking enthusiasts! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve their delightful texture. The filling can also be made ahead and refrigerated for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to assemble, simply pipe the filling onto the macaron shells and let them sit in the fridge for another 24 hours before serving. This resting time not only enhances the flavor but also ensures they’re just as delicious as fresh! With these prep tips, you’ll have impressive treats ready for your holiday gatherings without the last-minute stress.
Expert Tips for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Use Room Temperature Egg Whites: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume and stability, crucial for airy macaron shells.
Do Not Overmix: Fold in the almond flour mixture gently until the batter flows like lava; overmixing can lead to flat macaron shells.
Resting Time is Key: Allow your piped macarons to rest for 30 to 60 minutes until a skin forms—this step is essential for achieving that perfect macaron “foot.”
Rotate Your Baking Sheets: Rotate the trays halfway through baking for even cooking; this helps achieve those beautifully risen and smooth surfaces.
Refrigerate for Best Flavor: Refrigerate the assembled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld and improve texture—patience pays off!
What to Serve with Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Delight in the magic of the season by pairing these festive treats with complementary flavors and textures that will elevate your holiday gatherings.
- Festive Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy cup adds warmth and sweetness, perfectly balancing the crisp exterior and chewy filling of the macarons.
- Peppermint Ice Cream: The refreshing minty flavor offers a cool contrast, creating a delightful harmony with the cake-inspired filling.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai provide a cozy backdrop, enhancing the nostalgic flavors of your macarons with every sip.
- Buttercream Frosted Sugar Cookies: These classic treats bring an extra sweetness with a tender crumb, creating a nostalgic experience alongside the macarons.
- Fruit-Infused Sparkling Water: Bright, bubbly beverages such as pomegranate or cranberry lend a crisp freshness, cleansing the palate between each delightful macaron.
- Gingerbread Men: The spiced richness of gingerbread adds a classic holiday element, complementing the sweet and creamy taste of your macarons.
- Nutmeg Eggnog: A creamy, spiced drink, eggnog offers a luscious pairing that matches the indulgent nature of the macaron filling.
- Cinnamon Roll Cake: Sweet, warm, and comforting, this cake adds delightful cinnamon notes that harmonize beautifully with the macarons’ holiday spirit.
- Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta: Silky and smooth, the panna cotta’s subtle sweetness enhances the flavors in the macaron while providing a lovely textural contrast.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These fruity treats add a touch of elegance, offering juicy freshness that complements the rich flavors of the macarons.
Storage Tips for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons
Room Temperature: Keep unfilled macaron shells at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain texture.
Fridge: Once assembled, store your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to preserve freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled macarons for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: Macarons are best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating them in the oven, as this can compromise their texture.
Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Variations
Feel free to sprinkle some creativity into your baking and customize these festive macarons to suit your taste!
- Nut-Free Option: Swap almond flour with sunflower seed flour or finely ground oats for a delicious nut-free version.
- Vegan Delight: Use vegan butter and full-fat coconut cream to make a completely dairy-free filling that still tastes amazing!
- Flavor Explosion: Add a dash of peppermint extract to your filling for a refreshing twist that reminds you of holiday candy canes.
- Texture Twist: Incorporate chopped nuts or crushed peppermint candies into the filling for added crunch and festive flair.
- Colorful Layers: Try using different food colorings in the batter for a rainbow effect, creating a stunning visual that’s perfect for celebratory occasions.
- Spicy Warmth: Mix cinnamon or ginger into the filling to add a cozy, spiced flavor that evokes holiday warmth with each bite.
- Alternative Cakes: Experiment with different snack cakes, like carrot cake or chocolate cake, for an entirely new flavor adventure in your filling.
- Sugary Topper: Dust the finished macarons with edible glitter or powdered sugar for a sparkling touch that brings an extra festive cheer!
If you’re looking for more indulgent treats, consider whipping up some Decadent Nutella Cheesecake Bars or cozy up with a slice of Buttermilk Pound Cake to enjoy with your holiday macarons!
Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Recipe FAQs
What type of almond flour should I use for the macaron shells?
You should use finely ground almond flour for the best texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed flour works as a substitute, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly.
How should I store the assembled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons?
Once assembled, store your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their freshness and texture, making sure those delightful flavors stay intact.
Can I freeze these macarons for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze assembled macarons for up to 3 months. Just place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. To enjoy them later, thaw them in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
What should I do if my macaron shells are cracked or flat?
If your macarons come out flat or cracked, it may be due to overmixing the batter or insufficient resting time. Ensure that your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks and allow the piped batter to rest until a skin forms (about 30 to 60 minutes). Patience is key!
Are Christmas Tree Cake Macarons suitable for those with gluten allergies?
These macarons are naturally gluten-free since they are made with almond flour and do not contain any wheat. However, check the ingredients of the snack cakes used in the filling to ensure they meet gluten-free standards if needed.
How can I achieve the best texture for my macaron shells?
For perfect texture, it’s vital to sift the powdered sugar and almond flour together multiple times to eliminate lumps. When folding in the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix; the desired consistency should flow like lava. This careful handling will help create smooth and delightful macaron shells!
Delicious Christmas Tree Cake Macarons for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sift the powdered sugar and almond flour together in a mixing bowl. Set this dry mixture aside.
- Beat the room temperature egg whites with an electric mixer until foamy. Gradually add cream of tartar and increase speed, adding granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently mix in a few drops of green gel food coloring until evenly incorporated. Fold in the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture.
- Prepare baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag and pipe into shapes, letting it rest at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 14 to 16 minutes, rotating trays halfway through.
- Allow the macaron shells to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack.
- Beat softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and salt, then fold in crumbled snack cakes.
- Pair similar-sized macaron shells, pipe filling onto one shell, and press the other shell on top. Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with holiday sprinkles.
- Refrigerate assembled macarons for at least 24 hours to meld flavors.
