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Homemade French Chocolate Macaron Recipe photo

French Chocolate Macaron Recipe

These French Chocolate Macarons are a delightful treat! With a crunchy exterior and rich chocolate ganache filling, they're perfect for impressing guests.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time18 minutes
Total Time48 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: French
Keyword: Baking, Chocolate, Elegant, Macarons
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

For the Macarons:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar for sweetness and structure
  • 1/2 cup powdered almonds (about 2 ounces, 50g) finely ground sliced almonds
  • 3 tablespoons unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder for rich chocolate flavor
  • 2 large egg whites at room temperature
  • 5 tablespoons granulated sugar to stabilize the meringue

For the Ganache Filling:

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream for ganache filling
  • 2 teaspoons light corn syrup gives ganache a smooth texture
  • 4 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter cut into small pieces
  • 15 medium prunes (pitted, about 5 ounces, 150g)
  • 2 1/2 ounces best-quality milk chocolate finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Armagnac adds sophisticated flavor

Instructions

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients. In a mixing bowl, sift together the powdered sugar, powdered almonds, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
  • Step 2: Make the Meringue. In a clean mixing bowl, add the egg whites. Beat on medium speed until frothy, then gradually add granulated sugar. Increase speed to high and whip until stiff peaks form.
  • Step 3: Combine the Mixtures. Gently fold the dry mixture into the meringue using a spatula. Avoid overmixing; aim for a batter that flows like lava.
  • Step 4: Pipe the Macarons. Transfer the batter into a piping bag and pipe small rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Step 5: Let Them Rest. Allow the piped macarons to sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until they form a skin.
  • Step 6: Bake the Macarons. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and bake for 15-18 minutes, rotating halfway through. Let cool completely.
  • Step 7: Make the Ganache Filling. Heat heavy cream and corn syrup until simmering. Remove from heat, add chopped chocolates, stir until smooth, then mix in butter and Armagnac.
  • Step 8: Assemble the Macarons. Pair cooled macarons by size, pipe ganache on one and top with another. Press gently.
  • Step 9: Let the Flavors Meld. For best flavor, refrigerate assembled macarons for at least 24 hours before serving.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Electric Mixer
  • Sifter
  • Piping bags
  • Baking Sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
  • Food Processor

Notes

  • Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for optimal meringue.
  • Let macarons rest until they form a skin before baking to avoid cracks.
  • Store assembled macarons in an airtight container for up to 5 days.