Mango Macarons

These Mango Macarons are a delightful tropical treat that brings the essence of summer to any occasion. With a luscious mango-coconut buttercream filling, these macarons are perfect for celebrations, afternoon tea, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Their vibrant color and unique flavor make them a standout dessert that impresses friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of mango and coconut creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm weather.
• Impressive Presentation: These colorful macarons are visually stunning and will wow guests at any gathering.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them at parties, as gifts, or enjoy them just because! They fit any occasion.
• Easy to Follow: Even if you’re new to baking, our step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different flavors or colors in your buttercream for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delectable mango macarons, you’ll need some essential tools. Gathering the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Food processor
• Parchment paper
• Pastry bag with round tip
• Fine sieve

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This is crucial for achieving the perfect meringue texture by whipping egg whites efficiently.
• Food processor: It ensures a fine consistency of almond flour and powdered sugar for smooth macaron shells.
• Parchment paper: Provides a non-stick surface for baking macarons, making it easy to remove them after they cool.

Ingredients

These mango macarons are filled with a mango-coconut buttercream to make this a sweet tropical treat perfect for Summer.

For the Macaron Shells

• 110 g almond meal/flour
• 155 g confectioner’s sugar
• 90 g egg white (3 large egg whites)
• 55 g granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ¼ cup freeze-dried mango, finely crushed

For the Mango-Coconut Buttercream

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons coconut milk
• ¼ teaspoon coconut extract
• 2 tablespoons freeze-dried mango, finely crushed
• Few drops yellow food coloring (optional)

How to Make Mango Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line two sheet pans with parchment paper. Use a 1½-inch round cookie cutter to draw circles on the parchment paper and flip over the paper (drawing side down). Prepare a pastry bag with a round tip; Wilton 2A works well.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Using a food processor, pulse the powdered sugar and almond flour together. Sift several times until less than 2 tablespoons of almond bits remain. Add these bits back into the mixture.

Step 3: Whip Egg Whites

In the bowl of an electric mixer with the whisk attachment, combine the egg whites, cream of tartar, and granulated sugar. Whip on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue using a rubber spatula. Press against the side of the bowl while scooping from the bottom until smooth and shiny; aim for about 20-25 folds. Check consistency by dropping spoonfuls of batter—peaks should relax back into batter quickly.

Step 5: Pipe Shells

Transfer batter into your pastry bag and pipe it into pre-traced circles on your baking sheet. Tap sheets firmly on counter to release air bubbles trapped in batter.

Step 6: Dust with Mango Powder

Using a fine sieve, gently sift finely crushed freeze-dried mango powder over each macaron shell. A light coating is sufficient.

Step 7: Let Shells Dry

Allow shells to sit on counter for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours to dry out. They should not be sticky when touched.

Step 8: Bake Macarons

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until shells harden, rotating cookie sheets halfway through baking time. Macarons should peel off parchment easily once cooled.

Step 9: Make Buttercream Filling

Whip softened butter until light and creamy. Add remaining filling ingredients and mix on low until combined; increase speed and whip for another 2-3 minutes until fluffy.

Step 10: Assemble Macarons

Use a pastry bag fitted with a large round or star tip to fill macarons with buttercream filling. Store in refrigerator until ready to serve but allow them to reach room temperature before enjoying!

How to Serve Mango Macarons

Mango macarons are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their tropical flavor. Whether for a casual get-together or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh mango or other tropical fruits like pineapple and kiwi for a refreshing contrast.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the mango macarons on a colorful dessert platter with other sweet treats, such as mini tarts or chocolate-covered strawberries, to create a vibrant display.

Paired with Coconut Whipped Cream

• Offer a dollop of coconut whipped cream on the side for dipping, enhancing the coconut flavor in the buttercream filling.

Accompanied by Herbal Tea

• Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, which complements the flavors without overpowering them.

As Party Favors

• Package individual mango macarons in decorative boxes tied with ribbons to give as party favors, adding a personal touch to your event.

With Ice Cream

• Serve these macarons alongside a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert combination.

How to Perfect Mango Macarons

Perfecting mango macarons can be challenging, but with some helpful tips, you can achieve that ideal macaron texture and flavor.

• Use aged egg whites: Let your egg whites sit at room temperature for 24 hours before using. This helps stabilize them when whipped.

• Sift dry ingredients multiple times: Sifting almond flour and confectioner’s sugar ensures there are no lumps, leading to smoother shells.

• Fold gently: Be careful not to over-mix when combining the meringue and dry ingredients. The batter should flow slowly off your spatula.

• Check consistency: Perform the figure-eight test with your batter; it should form a ribbon that holds its shape briefly before settling back into itself.

• Let shells rest: Allow piped shells to rest before baking until they form a skin. This prevents cracking and results in smooth tops.

• Rotate baking sheets: Halfway through baking, rotate your sheets for even cooking and consistent color on all macarons.

Best Side Dishes for Mango Macarons

To complement the sweet and fruity flavor of mango macarons, consider pairing them with these delicious side dishes. Each option enhances the overall dessert experience without overshadowing the main attraction.

1. Mango Sorbet: A refreshing frozen treat that echoes the macaron’s flavor—serve it as a palate cleanser between bites.

2. Coconut Rice Pudding: Creamy and subtly sweet, this dish ties together tropical flavors while adding rich texture.

3. Pineapple Salsa: A zesty salsa made from diced pineapple, lime juice, and cilantro adds brightness alongside the sweetness of the macarons.

4. Chia Seed Pudding: Light and healthy, this pudding can be flavored with coconut milk and topped with fresh fruits for added texture.

5. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits such as berries, melons, and citrus provides a light and refreshing accompaniment.

6. Mini Fruit Tarts: These bite-sized desserts can include similar flavors like mango or coconut to create thematic harmony on your dessert table.

7. Lemon Curd Cups: Tangy lemon curd served in small cups offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the macarons.

8. Coconut Macaroons: For those who can’t get enough coconuts, these chewy cookies pair perfectly without being too overwhelming.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mango macarons can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold Measurement Errors: Always measure your ingredients precisely. Using too much or too little almond flour or sugar can ruin the texture of your macarons.

• Bold Inadequate Folding Technique: When combining the meringue and dry ingredients, gently fold them together. Overmixing can cause the batter to lose air, resulting in flat macarons.

• Bold Skipping the Drying Step: Letting your piped macarons sit before baking is crucial. This step helps form a skin on top, which is key for a perfect rise during baking.

• Bold Baking at Incorrect Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature. Baking at a lower temperature may prevent proper rising, while too high can lead to burnt shells.

• Bold Ignoring Cooling Time: Allow the macarons to cool completely before removing them from the parchment paper. Removing them too soon can cause them to stick and break apart.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store mango macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last up to 5 days when stored properly.

Freezing Mango Macarons

• Place mango macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mango Macarons

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes just to warm slightly.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for about 10 seconds; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a double boiler method over simmering water for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about mango macarons that can help you perfect this recipe.

What makes Mango Macarons unique?

Mango macarons stand out due to their tropical flavor and vibrant color, making them a delightful treat that brings summer vibes any time of year.

Can I customize my Mango Macarons?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different fruit purees or extracts in the buttercream filling for varied flavors that suit your taste preferences.

How do I know if my macaron batter is ready?

The batter should be smooth and shiny, and when you lift a spoonful, it should flow slowly back into itself without leaving peaks—this indicates it’s ready for piping.

Why did my Mango Macarons crack?

Cracking often occurs due to oven temperature issues or not allowing enough drying time before baking. Always ensure your macarons have formed a skin before they go into the oven.

Final Thoughts

Mango macarons are not only visually stunning but also bursting with tropical flavor. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings, making them suitable for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats!