Vegan Macarons Recipe – A Classical French Dessert

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Crafting the perfect vegan macaron recipe often feels like a culinary quest filled with trials and errors. For those who have embarked on this journey, replicating the delicate balance of a traditional macaron without animal products is daunting. 

I’ve faced the frustration of cracked shells, underwhelming flavors, and fillings that just didn’t hold up. However, my determination led me to experiment with various ingredients and techniques.

The breakthrough came when I discovered a combination that worked and produced macarons so divine that they could easily rival their non-vegan counterparts.

This revelation was not just a personal victory; it’s a gateway for you to enjoy these exquisite treats, aligning with a plant-based lifestyle without compromising on taste or texture.

What Are Vegan Macarons?

Vegan macarons are a plant-based version of the classic French dessert, traditionally made without animal products.

Unlike conventional macarons that rely on egg whites for their meringue base, vegan macarons use alternatives like aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) to achieve the iconic light, airy texture.

Almond flour remains a staple, ensuring the shells are naturally gluten-free. These macarons are filled with various vegan-friendly fillings, such as fruit jams, chocolate ganache made with dairy-free milk, or buttercream using plant-based butter, offering a cruelty-free option to this beloved sweet treat.

Quick Fact – Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, is a popular vegan substitute for egg whites. It is used in recipes like vegan macarons because it mimics meringue.

Recipe Directions

Reducing The Aquafaba

• Weigh the liquid from the chickpeas and simmer in a medium pot until reduced to about 125g. Cool and refrigerate overnight in an airtight container.

Macaron Shells

• Preheat your oven to 150°C/300°F (130°C/275°F for fan ovens). Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Whisk 100g reduced aquafaba with cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add caster sugar until stiff peaks form.
• Sift ground almonds and icing sugar together. Fold into the aquafaba mixture in two batches until just mixed.
• Pipe 2-inch circles onto a baking sheet and rest for 20-30 minutes.
• Bake on the middle shelf for about 18 minutes. Let cool before removing from the tray.

Buttercream Filling

• Mix icing sugar, vegan margarine, and vanilla extract until smooth. Whisk until pale and fluffy.
• Pipe a small amount of buttercream on one macaron and sandwich with another.

Store

• In the fridge, in an airtight container, for up to 2 days. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Flavor Infusions: Incorporate different extracts or zest into your macaron batter, such as lemon, orange, almond, or peppermint, for a burst of flavor.
• Colorful Shells: Use natural food colorings like beet juice for red, spirulina for blue, and turmeric for yellow to create vibrant shells.
• Flavored Fillings: Beyond classic buttercream, consider fruit jams, chocolate ganache made with dairy-free chocolate, or salted caramel using coconut cream.

Add-Ons

• Nut Butter: Swirl almond, cashew, or peanut butter into your filling for a nutty twist.
• Spices: Add cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg to your batter or filling for a warm, spicy note.
• Liqueurs: For an adult version, infuse your fillings with a splash of vegan-friendly liqueurs, such as amaretto or Grand Marnier.

Toppings

• Dusted Finishes: To add a decorative touch, lightly dust your macarons with cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or ground freeze-dried fruits.
• Drizzles: For extra sweetness and flair, drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate or a thin icing on top of your macarons.
• Edible Decor: Top your macarons with edible flowers, vegan sprinkles, or crushed nuts before the shells set for a beautiful, textured appearance.

Vegetable Substitutions

• Mushrooms – Great for replacing meat due to their umami flavor and meaty texture. Portobellos are excellent for burgers.
• Jackfruit – Its fibrous texture makes it a sought-after substitute for pulled pork or chicken.
• Cauliflower – Versatile and can mimic chicken wings and steak or be used as rice.
• Eggplant – With its sponge-like ability to absorb flavors, it’s perfect for dishes like lasagna or as a meat substitute in curries.
• Lentils – A hearty base for bolognese or shepherd’s pie, offering protein and substance.
• Chickpeas – Can replace tuna in salads or chicken in wraps, providing a satisfying texture and protein.
• Beets – Their earthy flavor and meat-like color make them ideal for vegan burgers or carpaccio.
• Zucchini – Excellent for noodles or lasagna sheets, offering a low-carb, nutritious option.
• Sweet Potatoes – It can replace meat in tacos, provide a filling base for veggie burgers, and add sweetness and texture to stews.
• Butternut Squash – Its creamy texture is great for replacing cheese in sauces or as a filling in ravioli.

Quick Tip – For a richer flavor in vegan baking, replace water with plant-based milk and add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s tanginess.

Best Side Dishes

1. Fruit Platters Fresh, seasonal fruits add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of macarons.
2. Sorbet A scoop of dairy-free sorbet, such as lemon or raspberry, offers a palate-cleansing complement.
3. Vegan Cheese Board A selection of vegan cheeses with crackers provides a savory balance.
4. Dark Chocolate Pieces of high-quality, dairy-free dark chocolate can intensify the flavors of the macarons.
5. Nut Mixes Roasted or candied nuts give a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well.
6. Coffee Or Tea Aromatic beverages like espresso, matcha, or herbal teas can enhance the macarons’ delicate flavors.
7. Vegan Whipped Cream A dollop of coconut whipped cream can be served alongside macarons for a creamy texture.
8. Champagne Or Sparkling Wine A glass of bubbly adds a festive touch and complements the lightness of the macarons.

How To Serve?

• Temperature: Serve at room temperature to ensure the best texture and flavor.
• Presentation Plate: Arrange the macarons on a decorative plate or platter. Choose a color that contrasts with them to make them stand out.
• Tiered Stand: For a high tea or special occasion, display them on a tiered stand alongside other vegan treats.
• Color Coordination: Arrange the macarons by color for a visually striking display.
• Individual Servings: For a personalized touch, serve each guest two or three macarons on small dessert plates.
• Pairing with Drinks: Offer herbal teas, coffee, or dairy-free milk to complement the macarons.
• Dessert Buffet: Include them in a dessert buffet with labels indicating the flavors, especially if you have a variety of fillings.
• Gift Packaging: Place them in clear plastic boxes or wrapped in cellophane with a ribbon for a lovely take-home gift or favor.
• Accompaniments: Serve alongside fruit compotes or vegan whipped cream for guests to add as they please.
• Edible Decorations: Garnish the serving plate with edible flowers or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Quick Tip – For perfectly smooth macaron tops, gently tap the baking sheet on the counter before resting them. This removes air bubbles and helps achieve a uniform surface.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.
• Freezing: Freeze macaron shells separately from fillings. They can last up to 3 months when stored properly.
• Room Temperature: Once filled, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.
• Make Ahead: Prepare macaron shells in advance. Once cooled, they can be kept frozen until needed, simplifying last-minute assembly.
• Humidity Control: Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent them from becoming sticky or too soft.
• Filling Before Serving: Fill macarons a day before serving to allow flavors to meld together, improving taste.

Recipe Fact – The term “macaron” is derived from the Italian word “maccarone,” which means “fine dough,” highlighting its origins in the Italian monasteries of the 8th century.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Vegan Macarons Difficult To Make?

Vegan macarons can be tricky due to the unique characteristics of plant-based ingredients. However, with practice and attention to detail, they can be mastered.

Following a reliable recipe and understanding key techniques such as aquafaba preparation and macaronage can help achieve success.

Can I Use Any Type Of Aquafaba For Vegan Macarons?

While aquafaba from canned chickpeas is commonly used for its consistent viscosity and neutral flavor, aquafaba from other beans or legumes can also work. However, results may vary, so it’s best to experiment and adjust accordingly.

Why Do My Vegan Macarons Sometimes Turn Out Hollow?

Hollow macarons can result from over-mixing the batter, under-baking, or uneven oven temperatures. To prevent hollowness, ensure proper folding techniques, accurate oven temperature, and adequate resting time before baking.

How Do I Store Vegan Macarons To Maintain Freshness?

Store vegan macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor and texture.

Can I Freeze Vegan Macarons For Later Consumption?

Yes, vegan macarons freeze well. Please place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving at room temperature.