Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I rummaged through my holiday decorations, I stumbled upon a box that contained cherished memories intertwined with the aroma of festive baking. It was the impetus I needed to whip up Christmas Tree Cake Macarons—a treat that not only looks like a whimsical holiday masterpiece but also tastes like pure joy. These little delights can be made in under two hours, making them a fantastic choice for both seasoned home-chefs and those just getting started. With their vibrant green hues and a creamy filling bursting with festive flavors, these macarons are sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re looking to wow guests or simply indulge yourself after a long day, these sweet little gems are your perfect companion this holiday season. Curious about how to create your own batch of these delightful confections? Let’s dive in! Why are these macarons irresistible? Festive Flavors: Experience the magic of the season with vibrant green shells filled with a rich, creamy center that bursts with nostalgia. The delightful combination of textures creates a unique dessert experience. Quick to Make: With a total prep time of under two hours, these macarons are perfect for the busy holiday hustle, giving you more time to enjoy what really matters. Visual Appeal: Their whimsical shape and color make them a stunning centerpiece at any gathering, guaranteed to steal the spotlight. Just imagine the festive cheer they’ll bring to your holiday table! Versatile Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! You can swap colors or flavors easily, and even add a hint of peppermint for an extra festive twist. For more amazing ideas, check out my guide on baking perfect macarons. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These macarons are a hit with both young and old, making them an ideal gift or a charming addition to dessert trays this season. Elevate your holiday gatherings with this scrumptious treat! Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Ingredients For the Macaron Shells • Powdered Sugar – Essential for sweetness and achieving that smooth macaron texture. • Almond Flour – Provides the structure while giving a delicate crunch to each bite; can also use sunflower seed flour for nut-free options. • Egg Whites – The star ingredient for creating that beautiful meringue; ensure they are at room temperature for better volume. • Granulated Sugar – Stabilizes the egg whites as it sweetens; add it gradually for an optimal texture. • Cream of Tartar – A small amount goes a long way in stabilizing the egg whites. • Green Gel Food Coloring – Customize the shade to make your macarons even more festive. For the Filling • Butter – Softened for easy blending, creating a creamy and luscious filling. • Heavy Cream – Adds that rich, indulgent consistency to the filling; adjust the amount based on your preferred thickness. • Vanilla Extract – Infuses delightful flavor throughout; for a different twist, consider using almond extract. • Snack Cakes (crushed) – This unique ingredient adds a nostalgic twist; make sure to mix them in well for an even distribution of flavors. These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons will capture hearts with their enchanting look and delicious taste! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Step 1: Sift and Prepare the Dry Ingredients Begin by sifting the powdered sugar and almond flour together twice. This crucial step helps to eliminate any lumps and ensures a smooth texture for your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons. Use a fine-mesh sieve and set this mixture aside while you prepare the meringue, as it’s important to keep everything ready for a seamless process. Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and cream of tartar, increasing the speed to high. Continue beating until stiff peaks form, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. The meringue should be glossy and hold its shape, laying the perfect foundation for the delicate macaron shells. Step 3: Add Color and Combine with Dry Mix Once you have reached the desired meringue texture, add a few drops of green gel food coloring to achieve that festive hue. Gently fold in the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture using a spatula. Be careful to maintain the airiness of the meringue as you blend until the batter flows like lava—smooth yet thick enough to hold its shape when piped. Step 4: Pipe the Macaron Shells Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip to create your macaron shapes. Pipe out tree shapes or circles on lined baking sheets, ensuring each shell is about the same size for even baking. Space them adequately apart to allow for slight spreading. This artistic step is where your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons begin to take shape! Step 5: Prepare for Baking After piping, gently tap the baking sheets on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped in the shells. Let the piped macarons sit for 30 to 60 minutes, allowing a skin to form on the surface; they should be touch-dry to the touch before baking. This step is vital for achieving a smooth, shiny shell. Step 6: Bake the Macarons Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 14-16 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through for even cooking. Watch for a slight sheen and ensure they do not wobble when touched. Once baked, the macaron shells should have a crisp exterior while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. Step 7: Cool the Shells Allow the baked macarons to cool completely on the baking sheets before carefully lifting them off the mats. This cooling period will help maintain their shape and prevent any breakage. Prepare your workspace for the creamy filling as the shells take this essential time to set perfectly. Step 8: Make the Filling In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it becomes light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until you achieve a smooth filling consistency. Finally, fold in the crushed snack cakes to add that extra nostalgic flavor to your creamy filling, perfect for the Christmas Tree Cake Macarons! Step 9: Assemble the Macarons Pipe a generous amount of filling onto the flat side of half of the macaron shells. Gently sandwich with the remaining shells to create delightful little bites. This easy assembly is where your beautiful creations truly come to life, adding that rich and creamy center to your crunchy shells. Step 10: Optional Decor For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the assembled macarons and sprinkling them with festive decorations. This final flourish not only adds a touch of whimsy but also enhances the holiday spirit of your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons, making them more impressive for your gatherings and celebrations! Make Ahead Options These Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance by baking them, cooling completely, and storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. For the filling, it can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before using for optimal creaminess. When you’re ready to assemble, simply pipe the filling onto half of the shells and sandwich them together. This way, you’ll enjoy scrumptious, festive treats without the last-minute stress! Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Variations Feel free to put your personal spin on these delightful treats, making them even more special for your holiday celebrations! Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with finely ground oats or sunflower seed flour for a flavorful, nut-free version. Colorful Creations: Use a variety of gel food coloring to create different festive themes, from red and green to winter wonderland white! Peppermint Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the filling for a refreshing seasonal flavor that dances on your palate. Chocolate Delight: Incorporate cocoa powder into the shell mixture for rich chocolate-flavored macarons; they pair beautifully with the cream filling. Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream filling for a warm, autumnal hint that brings back cozy memories. Fruity Fusion: Fold in a bit of lemon or orange zest to the filling for a zesty spark that brightens the rich flavors of your macarons. Extra Crunch: Add crushed freeze-dried fruits to the filling for a delightful crunch and a pop of color, making each bite a delightful surprise. These variations ensure that your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons are as unique and cherished as the memories you’ll create while sharing them. For more exciting ideas about enhancing your baking, check out my guide on baking perfect macarons. Expert Tips for Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Perfect Egg Whites: Use room temperature egg whites to achieve maximum volume and stiff peaks for your macaron meringue. Rest Time Matters: Don’t skip the resting period after piping; it’s crucial for forming the skin that helps achieve the perfect texture in your Christmas Tree Cake Macarons. Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your macarons as they bake—look for a slight sheen and a firm base. Overbaking can lead to dryness. Chill for Flavor: Let your assembled macarons mature in the fridge for at least 24 hours; this enhances the flavors and creates a delightful melting texture. Crisp Yet Chewy: Balance your baking time for a crisp shell while ensuring a chewy center. If unsure, start with the lower end of the baking range. What to Serve with Christmas Tree Cake Macarons These festive delights are more than just eye candy; they deserve a beautiful spread to complement their scrumptiousness and elevate your holiday gathering! Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety, this drink brings warmth and coziness to your holiday table. Add a dash of peppermint for a seasonal twist that pairs splendidly with the macarons. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm, fragrant beverage that dances with cinnamon and clove, enhancing the festive mood. Its sweetness beautifully contrasts with the creamy filling of the macarons. Gingerbread Cookies: These classic treats echo the holiday spirit with their warm spices. They add a lovely crunch, making them a delightful addition alongside the soft macarons. Chocolate Fondue: Perfect for dipping, this sweet treat invites guests to indulge creatively. The decadence of chocolate enriches the experience and satisfies the sweet tooth in everyone. Pecan Pie: With its toasty nuts and rich filling, this American classic offers a delightful texture contrast. Its sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the rich, creamy flavor of the macarons. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla enhances every bite, providing a cool complement to the macarons. Consider adding a sprinkle of festive sprinkles to make this pairing even more delightful! Sugary Ginger Ale: This bubbly drink brings a refreshing lift, and its gentle sweetness supports the macarons without overpowering their festive flavors, making it a delightful match. Peppermint Bark: A festive treat with a crunchy texture and a burst of minty flavor, this dessert adds a fun, holiday flair that beautifully complements the macarons’ rich flavors. Create a memorable occasion by pairing these delightful treats with these scrumptious options—your holiday celebration will be a feast for the senses! How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Fridge: Keep your assembled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the filled macarons in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re placed in a single layer to avoid sticking. Reheating: If you choose to freeze them, allow the macarons to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. Avoid microwaving, as this can change their delicate texture. Room Temperature: If you have any leftovers, they can also sit at room temperature for a maximum of 6 hours, but refrigeration is best to keep them fresh longer. Christmas Tree Cake Macarons Recipe FAQs How do I select the right egg whites for macarons? Absolutely! Using room temperature egg whites is key for achieving maximum volume when whipping. If your eggs are cold, simply place them in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes to bring them to the right temperature. What’s the best way to store my macaron leftovers? Very! To maintain freshness, store your assembled Christmas Tree Cake Macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their delightful texture and flavor, ensuring they’re still a treat for your taste buds. Can I freeze Christmas Tree Cake Macarons? Certainly! To freeze your macarons, place them in an airtight container in a single layer. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. This way, they’ll maintain their delicate texture! What if my macaron shells crack during baking? No worries! Cracked macarons can happen if the batter is overmixed or if your oven temperature is too high. Ensure that you fold the batter gently until it flows like lava, and check that your oven is properly calibrated. If the temperature is too high, consider lowering it by 10-15°F to avoid cracking. Are Christmas Tree Cake Macarons suitable for people with nut allergies? For those with nut allergies, it’s essential to use a nut-free flour alternative. Sunflower seed flour works beautifully in place of almond flour, keeping the recipe safe without compromising flavor. Just be sure to check for cross-contamination with other ingredients to ensure safety. Festive Christmas Tree Cake Macarons to Sweeten Your Holidays Delight in these Christmas Tree Cake Macarons that blend festive flavors with a whimsical design, perfect for holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hrCook Time 16 minutes minsResting Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 46 minutes mins Servings: 12 macaronsCourse: DessertCuisine: FrenchCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Macaron Shells2 cups Powdered Sugar Essential for sweetness1 cup Almond Flour Can substitute with sunflower seed flour for nut-free4 large Egg Whites At room temperature1 cup Granulated Sugar Add gradually1 teaspoon Cream of Tartar Stabilizes egg whitesa few drops Green Gel Food Coloring To customize shadeFor the Filling1 cup Butter Softened1 cup Heavy Cream Adjust based on preferred thickness1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract For flavor1 cup Snack Cakes (crushed) Adds nostalgic flavor Equipment Mixing BowlFine-mesh sievePiping bagBaking sheetsSpatula Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Cake MacaronsSift the powdered sugar and almond flour together twice.Beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy and gradually add granulated sugar and cream of tartar, increasing speed to high until stiff peaks form.Add green gel food coloring to the meringue and gently fold in the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar.Pipe the macaron shapes on lined baking sheets.Tap the baking sheets to release air bubbles and let sit for 30 to 60 minutes.Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and bake macarons for 14-16 minutes.Cool baked macarons on baking sheets.Beat softened butter until fluffy, then gradually mix in powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and crushed snack cakes to make filling.Pipe filling onto half of the macaron shells and sandwich with the other half.Optional: Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with festive decorations. Nutrition Serving: 1macaronCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 15mgPotassium: 60mgSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.2mg NotesStore in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Best enjoyed after maturing for 24 hours in the fridge. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
