Name: Delicious Santa Claus Macarons with Festive Buttercream
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 170 min
Ingredients: 100 grams Domino® Golden Sugar (Can substitute with granulated sugar.); 4 grams egg white powder (Omit if humidity is below 30%.); 100 grams egg whites (Use room temperature eggs for better volume.); 105 grams almond flour (Can replace with finely ground hazelnut flour.); 105 grams Domino® Powdered Sugar (Sift before use to avoid clumps.); 1.5 cups powdered sugar (Ensure it’s sifted for a smooth consistency.); 1 tbsp meringue powder (Can replace it with additional egg whites.); 4 tbsp water (Use sparingly to reach desired thickness.); 2 drops black gel food coloring (Feel free to substitute with similar shades.); 1 drop yellow gel food coloring (Make sure it's concentrated for bright results.); 0.5 cup all-purpose flour (Consider using gluten-free flour.); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (Room temperature butter mixes easier.); 0.25 cup Domino® Golden Sugar (Granulated sugar can be used as a substitute.); 1.25 cups Domino® Powdered Sugar (Adjust based on taste preference.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Opt for pure vanilla for best results.); 1/8 tsp almond extract (Optional, can be excluded for nut allergies.); 0.5 tbsp milk or heavy cream (Adjust as needed for thickness.); 0.25 cup desiccated coconut (Optional; can replace with chopped nuts or omit.)

As the warm scent of sugar cookies wafts through the air, I can’t help but feel the holiday spirit bubbling inside me. That’s the magic of Christmas! It’s the perfect time to whip up a batch of my beloved Santa Claus Macarons, which showcase a delightful Sugar Cookie Buttercream filling nestled between two delicate meringue shells. Not only are these festive treats visually stunning, but they also bring back nostalgic memories of holiday baking, making them a joyous addition to any festive gathering. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to master, ensuring you can make them without the holiday stress. Ready to dive into this merry adventure? Let’s get started on crafting these charming bites of cheer together!

Why Are Santa Claus Macarons So Special?

Delightfully Festive: These macarons are a whimsical twist on classic holiday treats, adding a touch of joy to any festive gathering.

Mouthwatering Flavor: The Sugar Cookie Buttercream filling mirrors the cozy flavor of freshly baked cookies, making each bite a nostalgic experience.

Alluring Presentation: With their vibrant colors and charming designs, they are sure to steal the spotlight on any dessert table.

Surprisingly Simple: Even beginners can whip up these treats with a few easy steps, making them perfect for holiday baking without the stress.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether at a Christmas party or as gifts, these macarons are sure to impress friends and family alike!

Make sure to check out our tips on decorating macarons for unique ideas to make your Santa Claus creations even more festive!

Santa Claus Macaron Ingredients

For the Macarons

• 100 grams Domino® Golden Sugar – This sweetener offers a rich flavor that enhances the macarons. Can substitute with granulated sugar.
• 4 grams egg white powder – A great stabilizer for meringue in humid conditions. Omit if humidity is below 30%.
• 100 grams egg whites – Crucial for building structure in the meringue. Use room temperature eggs for better volume.
• 105 grams almond flour – The main dry ingredient, providing a delightful texture. You can replace it with finely ground hazelnut flour for a unique twist.
• 105 grams Domino® Powdered Sugar – An essential sweetening agent for smooth macaron shells. Make sure to sift it before use to avoid clumps.

For the Royal Icing

• 1 1/2 cups (approximately 187 grams) powdered sugar – Used for decorating and adding a lovely texture. Ensure it’s sifted for a smooth consistency.
• 1 tbsp meringue powder – This adds stability and results in a crisp icing. If preferred, you can replace it with additional egg whites.
• 4 tbsp water – Helps adjust the icing’s consistency. Use sparingly to reach your desired thickness.
• 2 drops black gel food coloring – Perfect for adding color to decorate Santa’s belt. Feel free to substitute with gel food coloring in similar shades.
• 1 drop yellow gel food coloring – For the vibrant belt buckle. Make sure it’s concentrated for bright results.

For the Sugar Cookie Buttercream

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – This ingredient provides bulk for the flavorful buttercream. Consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113 grams) – The key fat that makes the buttercream creamy and delicious. Room temperature butter mixes easier.
• 1/4 cup Domino® Golden Sugar (50 grams) – Adds sweetness and texture to the frosting. Granulated sugar can be used as a substitute.
• 1 1/4 cups Domino® Powdered Sugar (156 grams) – Essential for sweetness in the filling. Adjust based on your taste preference.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor profile of the buttercream. Opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
• 1/8 tsp almond extract – Offers a delightful hint that complements the vanilla flavor. This is optional and can be excluded for nut allergies.
• 1/2 tbsp milk or heavy cream – Helps to achieve the desired consistency for the buttercream. Adjust as needed for thickness.
• 1/4 cup desiccated coconut (50 grams) – Adds a whimsical touch representing snow for decoration. This is optional; feel free to replace with chopped nuts or omit.

Now you’re all set to create these delightful Santa Claus Macarons that are sure to bring the festive spirit to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Santa Claus Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Equipment
Start by gathering your baking essentials: two baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats, and piping bags fitted with large round tips. Make sure your workspace is clean and organized to ensure a smooth macaron-making process. Having everything ready sets you up for success in crafting your Santa Claus Macarons.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 300ºF. If you’re using a convection oven, slightly adjust the temperature as needed. As the oven warms, this is the perfect time to prepare your macaron batter so that it can go straight in once it’s ready. Getting the right temperature is key to achieving the perfect textures in your festive macarons.

Step 3: Make Meringue
In a heatproof bowl, combine the granulated sugar and egg white powder, whisking gently over a simmering pot of water until the sugar completely melts and the mixture is warm. Transfer this mixture to a stand mixer and whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form, which should take around 15 minutes. The fluffy meringue is the foundation of your Santa Claus Macarons.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar in a separate bowl to achieve a light and airy mixture. Gradually fold this dry mix into the whipped meringue, adding gel food coloring as desired. Continue to gently mix until the batter is glossy and fluid, forming a perfect figure 8 without breaking. This will give your Santa Claus Macarons their vibrant color and smooth texture.

Step 5: Pipe and Rest
Transfer your well-mixed batter into the previously prepared piping bags. Pipe even circles onto the baking sheets, leaving space between each macaron. Allow the piped macarons to rest at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours, or until a firm skin forms on the surface. This crucial resting time will ensure that they rise beautifully while baking.

Step 6: Bake
Once the macarons have developed a skin, carefully place the trays into your preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. You’ll know they’re done when they have a slight shine and can be easily lifted from the parchment without sticking. Let them cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare Royal Icing
While the macarons cool, make the royal icing by mixing powdered sugar and meringue powder with water until you reach a glossy and stiff consistency. Add any desired coloring for decoration and mix until thoroughly combined. This icing will be essential for adding charming details to your Santa Claus Macarons.

Step 8: Decorate
Once the macarons have cooled completely, it’s time to pipe your royal icing designs. Use a piping bag fitted with a small round tip to add festive decorations to your macarons, like Santa’s belt or details on his hat. Allow the icing to set before moving on to the next step, ensuring everything hardens properly.

Step 9: Make Buttercream
Prepare the Sugar Cookie Buttercream by heating the flour in a saucepan to eliminate any raw taste while cooling it down. In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter with the granulated and powdered sugars until fluffy. Then, mix in the cooled flour and vanilla extract, adding milk as necessary to achieve your desired consistency for spreading.

Step 10: Assemble Macarons
To bring your Santa Claus Macarons together, pipe a generous dollop of the Sugar Cookie Buttercream onto the flat side of one macaron shell. Carefully place another shell on top to create a sandwich. For a festive touch, roll the edges in desiccated coconut, mimicking the look of snow, and complete your delightful creations for holiday gatherings.

Storage Tips for Santa Claus Macarons

Fridge: Store your Santa Claus Macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their freshness and delightful texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the macarons in an airtight container for 1-2 months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let frozen macarons thaw in the fridge overnight. For a fresh taste, serve them at room temperature.

Avoid Moisture: Always ensure macarons are completely cool before storing, as moisture can lead to a chewy texture, making them less enjoyable.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Santa Claus Macarons are perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance; simply let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their texture. The Sugar Cookie Buttercream can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just keep it chilled in an airtight container and give it a quick stir before piping. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the macarons with the buttercream and decorate them with royal icing. This prep-ahead strategy not only saves you time but ensures your festive treats are just as delicious and ready for all your holiday gatherings!

Expert Tips for Santa Claus Macarons

Room Temperature Eggs: Always use room temperature egg whites for better volume and stability when whipping meringue; cold eggs won’t aerate properly.
Humidity Considerations: If the weather is humid, consider adding egg white powder to stabilize your meringue; it’s crucial for achieving the right texture.
Sift Thoroughly: Sift your almond flour and powdered sugar before mixing to prevent lumps; this helps create the smooth texture essential for perfect macaron shells.
Resting Time Is Key: Don’t skip the resting period after piping; this crucial step allows macarons to develop a skin, preventing cracks during baking and ensuring a lovely rise.
Baking Temperature: Keep an eye on your baking temperature, especially if you’re using a convection oven; slight adjustments may be needed to get perfectly baked macarons.
Decorate with Care: Use royal icing to create fun designs, but let it dry completely to avoid smudging and ensure a beautiful presentation for your Santa Claus Macarons.

What to Serve with Santa Claus Macarons?

The festive season calls for delightful pairings to elevate your holiday spread.

Rich Hot Chocolate: This warm drink complements the sweet flavors of macarons, offering a cozy accompaniment for winter gatherings.
Sparkling Cider: A bubbly drink that enhances the festive spirit, sparkling cider is refreshing and pairs beautifully with sugary treats like macarons.
Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the holiday theme by serving these spiced cookies alongside your macarons for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Creamy Eggnog: The rich and creamy eggnog provides a lovely balance to the light textures of the macarons, creating a blissful holiday treat experience.
Fruit Platter: A colorful arrangement of fresh seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch, brightening up your dessert table, and balancing the sweetness.
Classic Christmas Cake: Offering a rich and spiced flavor profile, this cake complements the macarons while adding an air of tradition to your holiday spread.
Chocolate Truffles: Indulge in these luscious bites for a lavish treat that pairs well with the flavors of the macarons, satisfying any sweet tooth!

Santa Claus Macarons Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful options that will make your Santa Claus Macarons even more special!

Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour or a nut-free all-purpose blend to keep it safe for those with nut allergies.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour in place of regular flour in the Sugar Cookie Buttercream for everyone to enjoy.
Vegan: For a plant-based version, substitute egg whites with aquafaba and use vegan butter for the buttercream. They’ll still taste heavenly!
Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the Sugar Cookie Buttercream for a warm, cozy holiday flavor that will enchant everyone.
Minty Twist: Incorporate peppermint extract into the buttercream for a refreshing surprise that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the macaron shells.
Chocolate Delight: Fold cocoa powder into half the macaron batter for a unique chocolate flavor, creating a cookies and cream vibe that will impress.
Baby Snowman: Create little snowman faces instead of Santa’s with marshmallow bits and chocolate chips using the royal icing. It’s a playful twist that kids will love!
Flavor Boost: Experiment with different flavored extracts in the buttercream, such as almond or hazelnut, to elevate your holiday treat and surprise your taste buds.

For some extra inspiration on unique flavor twists, don’t miss our tips on using different extracts in baking for exciting variations. Enjoy getting creative in the kitchen!

Santa Claus Macarons Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Santa Claus Macarons?
Absolutely! For the best macarons, choose ingredients with care. Use room temperature egg whites for the meringue, which aerate better, leading to a fluffy texture. If you’re using almond flour, ensure it’s fresh and finely ground; this contributes to the macarons’ delicate structure. Check your sugars for any clumps and sift them before use to avoid inconsistencies in texture.

How should I store Santa Claus Macarons, and how long will they last?
To keep your Santa Claus Macarons fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture. For longer storage, you can freeze them for 1-2 months. Just ensure they’re fully cooled and separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking together.

Can I freeze my Santa Claus Macarons? How do I do it properly?
Absolutely! Freezing Santa Claus Macarons is easy and effective. After they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper between each macaron to prevent them from sticking. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply move them to the fridge to thaw overnight for optimal flavor and texture!

What should I do if my macarons are hollow or crack during baking?
Very common issue! If your macarons turn out hollow or crack, it may be due to a few factors. Firstly, ensure that you’ve properly mixed your batter to the right consistency; it should flow like molten lava and form a figure 8 without breaking. Also, don’t skip the resting time before baking; this allows a skin to form on the surface which helps in achieving that lovely rise. Lastly, check your oven temperature; using an oven thermometer can help ensure accurate baking conditions.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when making Santa Claus Macarons?
When making Santa Claus Macarons, consider potential allergens such as nuts, since almond flour is a primary ingredient. For a nut-free version, feel free to substitute almond flour with finely ground sunflower seeds or oat flour. Additionally, be cautious with the extracts if you’re accommodating allergies, and opt for pure versions when possible. The coconut decoration can also be omitted for those avoiding coconut.