Name: Joyful Christmas Tree Cake Macarons for Festive Bliss
Prep time: 90 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 166 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups powdered sugar; 1 cups almond flour (or sunflower seed flour for nut-free option); 4 large egg whites (room temperature); 0.5 cups granulated sugar; 0.25 teaspoon cream of tartar; 2-3 drops green gel food coloring (for the iconic tree color); 0.5 cups butter (softened); 1 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; pinch salt; 1 cups crumbled snack cakes; to taste white chocolate (for drizzling); to taste red and green sprinkles (for festive sparkle); to taste edible gold star (for decoration)

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As I rummaged through my pantry, a hidden stash of green gel food coloring caught my eye, igniting a wave of inspiration. Inspired by the magical spirit of the holidays, I decided it was finally time to create something truly festive: Christmas Tree Cake Macarons! These charming confections aren’t just for the seasoned baker; their quick preparation makes them a delightful endeavor for anyone eager to spread some holiday cheer. With a crisp outer shell and a creamy, cake-like filling, these macarons embody the essence of celebration. Best of all, they’re perfect for sharing, adorning dessert tables, or even gifting to loved ones—your new holiday tradition awaits! What flavor twist will you add to your macarons this season?

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Why are these macarons so irresistible?

Festive Fun: These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons bring holiday cheer right to your kitchen, making them a perfect project for family baking sessions.

Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of under two hours, they fit perfectly into even the busiest holiday schedules.

Unique Flavor: The creamy cake-inspired filling, enriched with crumbled snack cakes, offers a delectable twist that’s a delightful departure from traditional sweets.

Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Their eye-catching design and cheerful colors make them a showstopper at gatherings, ideal for sharing with friends or gifting alongside a warm cup of Coconut Cream Pancakes.

Versatile Delight: Not to mention, you can easily swap in different flavors or colors to suit any celebration, from peppermint to almond—creating your own holiday masterpiece!

Christmas Tree Cake Macaron Ingredients

Get ready to bake some festive magic with these delicious Christmas Tree Cake Macarons!

For the Shells

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to the smooth texture of the macaron shells.
Almond Flour – Provides structure with a delightful nutty flavor; substitute with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option.
Egg Whites (Room Temperature) – Essential for volume and stability, make sure they’re fresh for the best results.
Granulated Sugar – Helps to sweeten the egg whites and create those beautiful stiff peaks.
Cream of Tartar – Works wonders in stabilizing egg whites during whipping.
Green Gel Food Coloring – Gives your batter that festive green color, forming the iconic tree look.

For the Filling

Butter (Softened) – The base of your creamy filling, adding that rich taste everyone loves.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor depth, making each bite heavenly.
Heavy Cream – Contributes to a luxuriously creamy texture in the filling.
Pinch of Salt – Balances all the sweetness beautifully.
Crumble Snack Cakes – Brings a joyful holiday cake flavor to the filling that ties it all together.

Optional Decorations

White Chocolate – Drizzle over the macarons to add a lovely touch of elegance.
Red and Green Sprinkles – Perfect for that festive sparkle that will brighten any dessert table.
Edible Gold Star – Elevates visual appeal and makes your macarons truly shine!

With these carefully chosen ingredients, your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons will not only taste fantastic but also bring joy to your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons

Step 1: Prep the Dry Mix
Start by sifting 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar and 1 cup of almond flour together in a bowl. Repeat this sifting twice to ensure a smooth and lump-free mixture, which is key for the light texture of your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons. Set aside while you prepare the egg whites, keeping your workspace tidy and ready.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
In a clean mixing bowl, add 4 room-temperature egg whites and begin beating with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form—this should take about 5–7 minutes. The mixture will become glossy and hold its shape beautifully.

Step 3: Color and Combine
Introduce 2-3 drops of green gel food coloring into the whipped egg whites, folding gently to incorporate. Carefully add the sifted almond flour mixture in two parts, using a spatula to fold until the batter flows smoothly like lava—this process should take about 30 seconds. Be cautious not to overmix, as you want to maintain the batter’s airiness.

Step 4: Pipe the Shells
Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. On parchment-lined baking sheets, pipe tree shapes or circles, ensuring each macaron is roughly the same size. Tap the baking sheets lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter, smoothing the tops for even baking.

Step 5: Rest the Shells
Allow the piped macaron shells to rest at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes, depending on humidity. You’ll know they’re ready when a skin forms on the surface and they no longer stick to your finger when touched lightly. This resting period helps develop the signature macaron feet, crucial for their delightful texture.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the macaron shells inside once it’s heated. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, rotating the tray halfway through for even cooking. The shells should rise and develop a smooth, shiny surface. After baking, let them cool completely on the baking sheet before removing.

Step 7: Prepare Filling
While the shells cool, make the filling by beating 1/2 cup of softened butter in a mixing bowl until fluffy. Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Then mix in 1 cup of crumbled snack cakes until well combined, creating a rich and creamy filling.

Step 8: Assemble Macarons
Once your macaron shells are cool, pipe a generous amount of the cream filling onto the flat side of one shell. Sandwich it with another shell, gently pressing down to spread the filling evenly towards the edges. For a festive touch, you may drizzle melted white chocolate on top and sprinkle red and green decorations.

Step 9: Mature
To enhance flavor and texture, place the assembled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. This maturation process allows the flavors to meld and results in a soft, chewy interior contrasted by the crisp shell—a delightful holiday treat to share!

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Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to bring festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with ease! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance; simply pipe and bake them, then let them cool completely. Store the cooled shells in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. The filling can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the macarons and allow them to mature in the fridge for the best flavor. This step is essential to ensure they remain just as delicious as when freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Cake Macarons

Room Temperature: Enjoy your macarons fresh for up to 2 days when stored in a cool, dry place, preferably in an airtight container to maintain their delightful texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep assembled macaron treats in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they are in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: If you’d like to savor these festive delights later, freeze assembled macarons in a single layer within an airtight container for up to 3 months. They’ll retain their flavors beautifully.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat macarons; simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes after removing from the fridge or freezer before enjoying your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.

What to Serve with Christmas Tree Cake Macarons

These cheerful confections are perfect for brightening any festive gathering, creating a splendid spread of flavors and delights!

Rich Hot Cocoa: A warm, creamy cup of cocoa pairs beautifully, balancing the sweet and delicate flavors of the macarons.
Peppermint Bark: This crunchy, minty treat enhances the holiday spirit, providing a contrasting texture and flavor to the macarons.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful blend of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch, cutting through the sweetness while adding vibrant color to your table.
Spiced Mulled Wine: The warmth and spices of mulled wine create a cozy atmosphere, enhancing the festive spirit alongside the macarons.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing, making each bite of macaron even more indulgent and delightful.
Shortbread Cookies: These buttery bites offer a rustic touch, and their crumbly texture contrasts delightfully with the soft macarons.

Elevate your dessert table with these delicious accompaniments, ensuring that your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons shine even brighter!

Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Christmas Tree Cake Macarons and customize them to your heart’s content!

Nut-Free Option: Substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free delight perfect for all to enjoy.
Colorful Macarons: Change up the green gel food coloring for red or white! Why not make a whole rainbow of festive macarons?
Peppermint Twist: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the filling for a merry minty flavor that’ll fill your home with holiday cheer.
Spicy Surprise: Add a pinch of cinnamon or even cayenne pepper to the filling for a unique sweet-and-spicy kick that will intrigue your guests.
Vegan Variation: Replace egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) and use vegan butter in the filling to whip up a plant-based treat.
Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolaty shell that pairs beautifully with the original cake-inspired filling.
Festive Toppings: Get playful with toppings! Consider using edible glitter, or shaped sprinkles to reflect your holiday spirit, especially alongside your favorite coffee or Buttermilk Pancakes.
Coconut Cream Tidbit: Mix in shredded coconut with the filling for a tropical twist that keeps things fresh and exciting for your holiday gatherings.

With these delightful variations, you’ll surely impress your family and friends, making this holiday season even sweeter!

Expert Tips for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons

Room Temperature Whites: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature; this helps them whip up to the right volume and create a stable meringue for perfect macaron shells.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the almond flour, be gentle! Overmixing can deflate the batter, preventing your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons from rising and creating those coveted feet.
Resting is Key: Allow piped shells to rest until a skin forms before baking. This might take longer in humid environments, but it’s essential for getting those smooth tops.
Cool Before Filling: Let the macaron shells cool completely before adding filling. This ensures the filling doesn’t melt and gives you a pleasantly textured bite.
Mature for Flavor: Be patient and refrigerate the filled macarons for at least 24 hours. This crucial step enhances the flavors, resulting in a delightful treat you’ll love sharing.

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Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my macarons?
Absolutely! For the best results, make sure your egg whites are fresh and at room temperature. This ensures they whip up to the right volume, creating the perfect texture for your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons. Also, look for finely sifted powdered sugar for a smoother consistency in your shells.

What’s the best way to store assembled macarons?
Very! To keep your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their texture and flavor. If you plan to enjoy them later, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months in a single layer within an airtight container.

Can I freeze my macarons? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your macarons! To freeze, arrange the assembled macarons in a single layer in an airtight container. You can place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What should I do if my macarons don’t rise?
Oh no! If your macarons don’t rise properly, check if you’ve overmixed the batter after adding the almond flour. Overmixing can deflate the meringue and prevent that beautiful rise. Additionally, make sure your piped shells are resting long enough for a skin to form—this is crucial for achieving the perfect macaron feet.

Are these Christmas Tree Cake Macarons suitable for everyone?
Definitely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly. However, if you have nut allergies, consider substituting almond flour with sunflower seed flour. Always ensure that your colorants and additional decorations are free of any allergens for your guests—safety first!

Can I add different flavors or colors to the macaron filling?
Very much so! Feel free to get creative! You can experiment with different flavored extracts like peppermint or almond to add a unique twist to your filling. Additionally, swapping in various gel food colors can create exciting variations, making your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons personalized and festive!