Macaron Towers in Valentine Colors

Name: Macaron Towers in Valentine Colors
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 towers
Ingredients: 120g almond flour; 120g powdered sugar; 100g egg whites (aged preferred); 150g granulated sugar; Pinch of salt; Gel food coloring (in various colors); 250g unsalted butter, softened; 300g powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp milk or cream; Flavoring (e.g., raspberry, lemon)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When it comes to special occasions, I find myself drawn to the elegance and charm of macarons. These Macaron Towers in Valentine Colors not only look stunning but are also a joy to create. I love how the vibrant colors and delicate textures come together to embody the spirit of love. It's a fun challenge to perfect the macaron shell, and each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that makes the effort worthwhile. Whether celebrating with a partner or treating friends, these towers will impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:55:21.080Z

I remember the first time I crafted these beautiful macaron towers. It turned into a delightful afternoon filled with colorful ingredients and the sweet scent of almond flour baking in the oven. Each layer of macarons is not just a treat but a testament to a little patience and practice in achieving the perfect shell.

The trick is to ensure the meringue is not overbeaten and to fold in the dry ingredients gently to create that perfect, glossy surface. It's all about finding that balance, and once you do, it opens the door to endless flavor combinations!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors that brighten up any occasion
Delicate texture that contrasts with creamy fillings
A fun way to express creativity and celebrate love

      

Mastering the Macaron Shell

The macaron shell is a delicate balance of technique and ingredients. The aged egg whites play a crucial role in achieving the ideal meringue stability. Aging allows for moisture evaporation, resulting in a more stable foam that holds its shape during baking. Aim for egg whites that have been left uncovered in the fridge for 24-48 hours for best results. If you're short on time, let fresh egg whites sit at room temperature for a few hours before use.

When folding the dry ingredients into the meringue, it's essential to use a gentle motion to avoid deflating the mixture. The consistency of the batter should flow smoothly and form a ribbon when lifted. If your batter is too thick and doesn't spread out, you can add a few drops of milk or water to loosen it slightly. Conversely, if it's too runny, you may have overmixed it. Practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to experiment until you get it just right.

Creating the Perfect Buttercream Filling

The buttercream filling is a key component of the macaron, contributing both flavor and creaminess. Softened unsalted butter is ideal; it allows the sugar to incorporate smoothly, creating a creamy texture without graininess. If you want to lighten the flavor, consider using flavored extracts instead of vanilla, such as almond or orange, to create a unique twist that complements your chosen color scheme.

Remember to adjust the liquid in your buttercream based on the climate and humidity. In a humid kitchen, you may find the buttercream is too soft. A bit more powdered sugar can help firm it up. Conversely, in a dry environment, a teaspoon of additional milk or cream can help achieve the right consistency. Always taste your filling to ensure it's harmoniously flavored with the outer macaron shells for an enjoyable bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your macaron towers:

Macaron Shells

120g almond flour
120g powdered sugar
100g egg whites (aged preferred)
150g granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
Gel food coloring (in various colors)

Buttercream Filling

250g unsalted butter, softened
300g powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp milk or cream
Flavoring (e.g., raspberry, lemon)

Once you have gathered all your ingredients, you're ready to create these stunning macarons!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your elegant macaron towers:

Prepare the Meringue

In a clean bowl, whisk the aged egg whites with a pinch of salt until frothy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue whisking until stiff peaks form. Be sure not to overbeat; the meringue should be glossy and smooth.

Fold in the Dry Ingredients

Sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar into the meringue. Gently fold the mixture using a spatula until well combined and the batter flows like lava.

Color the Batter

Divide the batter into separate bowls and add gel food coloring to each. Fold gently until the color is evenly distributed. Remember, less is more with food coloring!

Pipe the Shells

Transfer the colored batter into piping bags and pipe round discs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them sit for approximately 30 minutes until a skin forms.

Bake the Macarons

Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Bake the macarons for 15 minutes, rotating halfway through. Once baked, let them cool completely before removing from the parchment.

Prepare the Filling

Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add vanilla and milk, adjusting consistency and flavor to preference.

Assemble the Towers

Pair the macaron shells and pipe buttercream filling onto one half. Stack them to create towers, making sure to alternate colors for a vibrant look.

Once assembled, let the towers rest for a few hours before serving to enhance their flavors.

Pro Tips

For best results, let the macaron shells age in the fridge overnight before assembling. This helps the flavors meld beautifully!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Macarons can be made a day in advance, which actually helps them reach their ideal flavor and texture. Once assembled, store the towers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to five days when properly stored. To enjoy them at room temperature, simply take them out about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

If you prefer to make the shells ahead of time, you can freeze the unfilled macaron shells. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container with layers separated by parchment paper. When you're ready to use them, let them thaw in the fridge and then fill them fresh with buttercream.

Variations and Creative Flavors

While this recipe celebrates Valentine colors, feel free to get creative with your color palette and flavors. Different fruit purees can be used in the buttercream for a burst of natural flavor and color. Think about lemon for a fresh twist or a fruity raspberry to enhance the romantic red tones. For a more adventurous approach, consider infusing your buttercream with spices like cardamom or using different extracts like almond or hazelnut.

You can also experiment with different filling styles beyond buttercream, such as ganaches or fruit jams, which can provide varied textures and tastes. Be mindful of the moisture content when using traditional fillings, as they may alter the integrity of the macaron shell. Tailor your choices to achieve a balance that maintains the distinct character of each bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other flavors for the filling?

Absolutely! You can experiment with flavors like coffee, chocolate, or fruit purees.

→ What is the best way to store macarons?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer preservation.

→ Why did my macarons crack?

Cracking may occur due to excessive oven temperature, overly beaten meringue, or insufficient drying time before baking.

→ Can I make macarons without almond flour?

Almond flour is essential for macarons, but you can try using ground hazelnuts or other nut flours for a different flavor.