Name: Festive Christmas Tree Cake Macarons You’ll Love to Make
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 1717 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Almond Flour (Provides structure and a chewy texture); 1.5 cups Powdered Sugar (Adds sweetness and aids in creating a smooth surface); 3 large Egg Whites (Using at room temperature yields the best results); 0.75 cups Granulated Sugar (Stabilizes meringue for glossy finish); 0.25 teaspoon Cream of Tartar (Optional for better egg white stability); 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (Forms the rich base for the buttercream); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Sweetens the filling); 2 tablespoons Heavy Whipping Cream (Adds luxurious texture); 1 package Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes (Crumble to infuse nostalgic flavor); 1 cup White Chocolate (For dipping the macarons); 0.25 cup Green Sprinkles (For festive decoration); 1 cup Red Buttercream Frosting or Royal Icing (For piping decorative stripes)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Amid the twinkling lights and comforting scents of the holiday season, I stumbled upon a delightful way to capture that spirit: Christmas Tree Cake Macarons. These festive gems perfectly blend the traditional chewy, crisp texture of French macarons with the creamy nostalgia of Little Debbie’s beloved snack cakes. Not only are they a feast for the eyes with their vibrant colors and charming shape, but they also bring a dose of childhood joy right to your holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or searching for the perfect homemade gift, these whimsical macarons are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Just imagine delighting friends and family with these scrumptious treats that echo the magic of the season. Are you ready to dive into this festive baking adventure?

05525f9e 9e34 442a aa3a 256d7d7f9b8btr ziuu5f

Why Bake Christmas Tree Cake Macarons?

Joyful indulgence: These macarons combine festive cheer with a beloved childhood treat, making each bite a delightful reminder of the holiday spirit.
Easy to whip up: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be amazed at how quickly these elegant cookies come together.
Visually stunning: Decorated with vibrant colors and a charming tree shape, they’re perfect for show-stopping holiday dessert trays or as thoughtful homemade gifts.
Versatile flavors: Feel free to experiment with different snack cake flavors or decorations to suit any celebration, ensuring they never get boring.
Make-ahead magic: Allowing the flavors to meld in the fridge transforms these macarons into something truly unforgettable, perfect for stress-free holiday hosting.
Guaranteed crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re sharing them at a party or gifting them in decorative boxes, these festive treats are sure to brighten anyone’s day!

Christmas Tree Cake Macaron Ingredients

• A delightful blend that inspires festive baking!

For the Macaron Shells
Almond Flour – Provides structure and a chewy texture, essential for those perfect macaron shells.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in creating a smooth surface.
Egg Whites – Key for meringue, contributes to airy lightness; using them at room temperature yields the best results.
Granulated Sugar – Stabilizes meringue for that ideal glossy finish.
Cream of Tartar – Optional, but helps in achieving better egg white stability during whipping.
For the Buttercream Filling
Unsalted Butter – Forms the rich base for the buttercream, ensuring creaminess in each bite.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds a luxurious texture, lightening the filling beautifully.
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes – Crumbled to infuse nostalgic flavor into the buttercream; can substitute with another soft snack cake if desired.
For the Decorations
White Chocolate – Used for dipping and adds a touch of elegance and sweetness to the macarons.
Green Sprinkles – A fun decorative element to enhance the festive visual appeal.
Red Buttercream Frosting or Royal Icing – For piping decorative stripes, mimicking the classic holiday dessert.

Incorporate these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating irresistible Christmas Tree Cake Macarons that are sure to delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
Sift together 1 cup of almond flour and 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar into a large mixing bowl. This will ensure the mixture is lump-free, creating a smoother macaron shell. Set aside while you prepare the meringue, as this dry blend is essential for the ultimate texture of your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.

Step 2: Make Meringue
In a clean mixing bowl, beat 3 large egg whites at room temperature with an optional ¼ teaspoon of cream of tartar, using a stand mixer or handheld mixer. Whip until soft peaks form, then gradually add ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Continue mixing for about 7–9 minutes until the meringue is glossy with stiff peaks, a crucial stage for your delightful macaron shells.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the meringue in two batches using a rubber spatula. The goal is to reach a batter that flows like lava, which typically takes about 60 folds. This technique incorporates air without deflating your meringue, ensuring that your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons will have the perfect rise and texture once baked.

Step 4: Pipe Shells
Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Transfer your macaron mixture into a piping bag fitted with a round tip, and pipe 1½-inch rounds onto the sheet, leaving space for spreading. Tap the trays firmly on the countertop to release air bubbles, then let them rest for 20–40 minutes until the tops are dry to the touch, forming a skin that helps create the signature “foot.”

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Once the shells have rested, bake them for 15–17 minutes, avoiding the temptation to open the oven for the first 13 minutes. The macarons should rise and develop a smooth surface with a slight sheen. Once done, let the shells cool completely on the baking sheets before removing them.

Step 6: Make Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of unsalted butter (softened) until creamy, then gradually mix in 2 cups of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream. Finally, fold in crumbled Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes until the filling is well combined. This nostalgic buttercream will be sandwiched between the macaron shells, elevating your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons with sweet creaminess.

Step 7: Assemble Macarons
Once the shells are cooled, match them by size, and pipe a generous dollop of the filling onto half of the shells. Carefully sandwich them with the matching shells. This assembly creates the perfect balance between the crisp exterior and the soft, creamy filling, making your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons irresistible.

Step 8: Decorate
Melt white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip the tops of the assembled macarons into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off. While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle with green sugar and add red frosting stripes for a festive touch, transforming these macarons into eye-catching holiday treats.

Step 9: Mature
For the best flavor, refrigerate the assembled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons for at least 24 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste and texture, resulting in sweet memories and joyful smiles when shared during the holiday celebrations.

05525f9e 9e34 442a aa3a 256d7d7f9b8bbl wtdcs2

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their delicate texture. Additionally, you can whip up the buttercream filling and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before assembly. Just be sure to bring the filling back to room temperature and give it a quick stir before piping. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the macarons and decorate, allowing them to mature in the fridge for that optimal flavor! This prep-ahead tactic makes your holiday baking simpler and stress-free, all while ensuring these delightful treats are just as delicious!

Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Variations

Get creative and make these delightful macarons your own with a few joyful tweaks!

Flavorful Fillings: Experiment by swapping crumbled Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes with other soft snack cakes like chocolate or vanilla for a delightful twist.
Chocolate adds a rich depth, while vanilla will lend a classic sweetness—there’s no limit to your creativity!
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream or dairy-free butter to make a fabulous filling for a dairy-free version.
These substitutions maintain creaminess while creating a unique flavor profile that everyone can enjoy!
Nut-Free Shells: Replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free version, perfect for those with allergies.
Just like a warm hug, these shells will still deliver that satisfying chewy texture without the nuts!
Different Sprinkles: Use colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to match various holidays beyond Christmas, like pastel colors for Easter or red and blue for July Fourth.
This way, you can enjoy festive vibes year-round while elevating your desserts!
Spice it Up: Add a touch of cinnamon or peppermint extract to the filling for a seasonal flavor twist.
Just a few drops can turn ordinary buttercream into a delightful holiday sensation that’ll leave everyone guessing your secret!
Mini Macarons: Pipe smaller shells for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties or gifting.
These little delights will surely be a hit, allowing guests to enjoy a taste without committing to a larger sweet treat!
Chocolate Dipped: Elevate your macarons by dipping them halfway in melted dark or milk chocolate before sprinkling with festive toppings.
The combination of flavors will bring another layer of decadence, worthy of any holiday dessert table!
Citrus Zest: For a refreshing twist, add a touch of lemon or orange zest to the filling, making it lively and zesty.
This bright addition not only adds flavor but also compliments the sweetness beautifully, balancing your macaron experience!

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to check out other delectable recipes, such as these delicious Coconut Cream Pancakes or indulge your sweet tooth with a piece of Cookie Butter Cake. Your baking adventure just became even more exciting!

Tips for the Best Christmas Tree Cake Macarons

Clean Tools: Ensure all tools used are completely clean and free of any grease. Even a tiny bit can prevent the meringue from whipping properly.
Weigh Ingredients: Use a kitchen scale for accuracy with your ingredients. Variations in measurements can significantly impact the final texture of your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.
Age Egg Whites: For better stability when whipping, try aging egg whites overnight in the fridge. Older egg whites can whip up fluffier meringue.
Resting Time: Don’t skip resting the piped macarons. This crucial step develops a “skin” on the surface that allows the macarons to rise correctly while baking.
Oven Thermometer: Invest in an oven thermometer to check baking temperatures, as many oven settings can be off. Accurate temperature ensures the macarons achieve that perfect texture.

What to Serve with Christmas Tree Cake Macarons

Elevate your holiday gathering with delightful accompaniments that complement the cheerful flavors of these whimsical macarons.

Festive Fruit Platter: A mix of seasonal fruits like pomegranate, citrus, and berries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet macarons, brightening your dessert spread.
Rich Hot Chocolate: A cup of creamy hot chocolate complements the nostalgic flavors beautifully. Top with whipped cream for an indulgent treat paired with every macaron.
Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices and crunchy texture of gingerbread cookies harmonize perfectly with the softness of macarons, making for a cozy holiday bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side to provide a cool contrast to the chewy macarons. The classic flavor is sure to satisfy everyone.
Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai brings a comforting, aromatic experience that pairs delightfully with the sweetness of these festive treats.
White Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The indulgence of strawberries dipped in white chocolate mirrors the flavors of the macarons. This decadent pairing adds elegance to your dessert table.
Holiday Punch: A refreshing punch infused with cranberry and citrus provides a zesty sip that balances the sweetness of the macarons, perfect for festive gatherings.
Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee or espresso cuts through the sweetness beautifully, enhancing the flavor of the macarons while creating a sophisticated pairing.
Mini Cheesecakes: The rich creaminess of mini cheesecakes offers a delightful contrast. Opt for flavors like peppermint or vanilla to keep the holiday spirit alive.
Chocolate Mocha Mousse: A light and airy mousse made from rich chocolate reflects the festive theme, adding a touch of elegance and indulgence to your holiday dessert experience.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Cake Macarons

Room Temperature: Store macarons in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain fresh and delicious.

Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Chilling helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste of your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze macarons in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat macarons; enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

05525f9e 9e34 442a aa3a 256d7d7f9b8bbr uzevpn

Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for my macarons?
Absolutely! For the eggs used in the meringue, always use fresh, room-temperature egg whites, ideally aged overnight in the fridge for better whipping. When it comes to butter for the filling, ensure it’s softened but not melted—just left out at room temperature for about an hour will do! Quality ingredients yield the best results, and I recommend sticking to brands you trust for the powdered sugar and almond flour to maintain that delightful texture.

How should I store my Christmas Tree Cake Macarons to keep them fresh?
Very simple! You can store your macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan on enjoying them over a longer period, transfer them to the fridge in the same type of container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 7 days. Not to mention, chilling enhances the flavor as the truly magical macaron experience happens as the filling melds with the shells!

Can I freeze my Christmas Tree Cake Macarons, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze these delightful treats, lay them flat in a single layer in an airtight container. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer them to the fridge to thaw for a few hours. Be sure not to refreeze them once they’re thawed; macarons are best enjoyed fresh!

What should I do if my macaron shells crack while baking?
Ah, that can be a bummer, but don’t worry! Cracks usually mean the macaron overspread or there was too much moisture in the batter. Make sure to rest piped macarons for 20–40 minutes until the tops are dry before baking; this helps form a skin that allows the shells to rise beautifully. Additionally, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to avoid uneven baking as this can lead to cracking.

Are Christmas Tree Cake Macarons safe for everyone to enjoy, including pets?
Well, while these macarons are absolutely vegetarian and suited for most people, they do contain ingredients like butter and chocolate, which aren’t safe for pets—especially dogs! When sharing with family and friends, be sure to inform those with allergies, particularly to nuts, dairy, or gluten. Always verify your ingredient labels if dietary restrictions are a concern!