Matcha Macarons

Short Description

Matcha Macarons are delicate, elegant cookies made from almond meringue shells infused with high-quality matcha green tea powder. Filled with a rich matcha buttercream or ganache, these refined pastries offer a balance of sweet and earthy flavors, perfect for sophisticated dessert tables or an afternoon treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Offers a refined, slightly bitter matcha flavor balanced with sweetness
• Visually appealing with a natural green hue from matcha
• Can be filled with either buttercream or ganache to suit your taste
• Great for gifting, holidays, or special events
• Naturally gluten-free thanks to almond flour

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the macaron shells:

• Egg whites
• Granulated sugar
• Almond flour
• Powdered sugar
• Matcha powder
• Egg white powder (optional)

For matcha buttercream filling:

• Unsalted butter
• Powdered sugar
• Matcha powder
• Milk or water

For matcha ganache filling (alternative):

• White chocolate
• Heavy cream
• Matcha powder

Directions

1. Prepare baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. Sift almond flour, powdered sugar, and matcha powder together. Set aside.
3. Make meringue: Whisk egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Egg white powder can be added for stability.
4. Macaronage: Fold dry ingredients into meringue until the batter flows smoothly and forms ribbons.
5. Pipe 1.5-inch rounds onto prepared sheets and tap trays to release air bubbles.
6. Rest the shells for 30–40 minutes, until a dry skin forms on top.
7. Bake at 150°C (300°F) for 15–17 minutes. Let cool before removing.
8. Make filling:
   • For buttercream, beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar and matcha, thinning with milk or water as needed.
   • For ganache, heat cream and pour over white chocolate. Stir until smooth, then add matcha. Cool to piping consistency.
9. Assemble by piping filling onto one shell and sandwiching with another.
10. Mature macarons in the refrigerator for 24 hours for best texture. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Approximately 22 macarons
• Prep Time: 2 hours
• Rest Time: 40 minutes
• Bake Time: 15–17 minutes
• Total Time: About 3 hours

Variations

• Use citrus zest or vanilla in the filling for added complexity
• Add a drop of gel food coloring for a more intense green shade
• Try red bean paste or yuzu curd as alternative fillings
• Lightly dust tops with matcha or drizzle with white chocolate for decoration

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
• Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge
• Always serve at room temperature for best texture and flavor

FAQs

What is matcha?

Matcha is a powdered green tea made from finely ground, shade-grown leaves. It has a vibrant color and a unique, slightly bitter flavor.

Can I skip aging the egg whites?

It is possible, but aging helps reduce moisture, resulting in a more stable meringue and better shells.

Why did my macarons crack?

Common causes include overmixed batter, high oven temperature, or skipping the resting period before baking.

How do I know if my batter is ready?

The batter should flow slowly and form ribbons. You should be able to draw a figure-eight without the batter breaking.

Is food coloring necessary?

No, matcha already provides a natural green color. However, you can add gel coloring for visual enhancement.

Can I use any type of chocolate for the ganache?

White chocolate works best, as it complements the subtle matcha flavor. Other chocolates can overpower the matcha.

How long do macarons need to rest before baking?

30 to 40 minutes, or until a dry film forms on the surface. This helps develop the signature feet during baking.

Can I make the fillings in advance?

Yes, buttercream and ganache can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before piping.

Why are my macarons hollow?

This can result from underbaking, overmixing, or not allowing them to mature properly in the fridge.

Can I make macarons without a stand mixer?

Yes, but a hand mixer is recommended. Achieving stiff meringue peaks manually is very challenging and time-consuming.

Conclusion

Matcha Macarons are a delightful combination of French pastry finesse and Japanese flavor. With their stunning appearance and sophisticated taste, they make a wonderful treat for matcha lovers and an elegant addition to any dessert spread. With practice and care, you can master these delicate cookies and impress anyone with your baking skills.

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