There’s an undeniable joy that comes from the kitchen when you’re about to create something truly special, like these Oreo macarons with a silky vanilla cream filling. The first time I baked macarons, I was hooked by the rhythmic process of whisking egg whites and folding in the dry ingredients—transforming simple components into delightful, airy treats that are perfect for elevating any occasion.
These oreo macarons are not just another dessert; they offer a delightful twist on the classic cookie we all adore, combining rich chocolatey flavors with a delicate chewiness that brings comfort with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, treating yourself to a sweet escape, or simply looking to impress, these elegant pastries will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, since they are crafted with gluten-free almond flour, you can indulge without the guilt! So, roll up those sleeves and get ready to create a decadent treat that will leave your taste buds dancing in delight.
Why are Oreo Macarons the Ultimate Treat?
Simplicity at Its Best: These macarons are made with a straightforward technique, making them perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Irresistible Flavor: The fusion of chocolate and vanilla is a match made in heaven, creating a rich and satisfying treat.
Versatile Deliciousness: Adapt the filling with unique flavors or mix in crushed Oreos for an extra crunch.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Made with gluten-free almond flour, you can enjoy these delightful bites without worry.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a gathering or a cozy night in, these macarons will impress your guests and elevate your dessert game!
Oreo Macaron Ingredients
• Dive into the delicious world of Oreo macarons with these essential ingredients!
For the Macaron Shells
- Almond Flour – Provides structure and moisture; be sure to use finely ground almond flour for those perfect smooth shells.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and smooth texture; sift it well to remove lumps for an impeccable macaron texture.
- Black Cocoa Powder – Delivers a rich chocolate flavor and deep color; you can substitute with unsweetened cocoa powder if needed, but expect some flavor and color variation.
- Egg Whites (room temperature) – Crucial for creating the light meringue; ensure that there’s no yolk in the mix for the best results.
- Granulated Sugar – Stabilizes the egg whites and helps build macaron structure; it’s essential for that classic chewy bite.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for fine salt to ensure even distribution.
- Vanilla Extract – Complements both the macaron and the filling; use clear imitation vanilla for appearance and taste.
- Black Gel Food Coloring – Optional, but great for achieving an intense black color; adjust the drops based on your preferred shade.
For the Vanilla Cream Filling
- Unsalted Butter (room temperature) – Creates a creamy base for the filling; feel free to swap with plant-based butter for a dairy-free treat.
- Vegetable Shortening – Offers stability to your frosting; can be replaced with extra butter (1:1) if desired.
- Vanilla Extract (for filling) – A flavor enhancer; try to match the extract used in the macarons for consistency.
- Powdered Sugar (for filling) – Adds sweetness and helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency; sift it for a smooth result.
These delightful ingredients combine to make the perfect Oreo macarons that are simply irresistible! Enjoy the baking experience as you whip up these gorgeous treats!
How to Make Oreo Macarons
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Prepare Tools: Ensure all equipment, including mixing bowls and utensils, is free from any grease. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
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Sift Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, powdered sugar, and black cocoa powder. Sift the mixture together twice to achieve a fine texture, which is key for smooth macaron shells.
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Whisk Meringue: Set up a double boiler and gently heat the granulated sugar with the egg whites, whisking until frothy. Transfer this to a stand mixer and beat until stiff peaks form, incorporating salt and vanilla extract during whipping.
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Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the whipped meringue. Aim for a batter that flows like lava and can form a figure 8 with your spatula, which indicates it’s ready.
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Pipe Macarons: Fill a piping bag fitted with a round tip, then pipe 1.5-inch rounds onto the prepared mats. Give the baking sheets a light tap to release any air bubbles and let them rest for 35-45 minutes until the tops feel dry to the touch.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C). Bake one tray of macarons at a time for 16 minutes, rotating halfway through to ensure even cooking.
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Cool & Store: Once baked, let them cool completely on the baking sheet before gently removing them. If not using immediately, store shells in an airtight container.
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Prepare Filling: Beat together the room temperature butter, vegetable shortening, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Pipe the filling onto half of the macaron shells and sandwich with the remaining halves.
Optional: Garnish with crushed Oreos sprinkled on top for extra flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Oreo Macarons
- Clean Tools: Ensure all baking tools are spotless and free from grease; even a tiny bit can affect meringue stability and the final texture of your Oreo macarons.
- Sift Thoroughly: Sift the almond flour, powdered sugar, and black cocoa powder multiple times. This step is crucial to achieve a smooth batter that results in perfect macarons.
- Room Temperature Egg Whites: Use egg whites at room temperature for better meringue stability. Cold egg whites can lead to a weak structure and flat shells.
- Sugar Dissolution Test: Rub a bit of the mixture between your fingers to check for any granulated sugar. If it’s still gritty, whip it a bit longer to ensure your meringue is fully stabilized.
- Drying Time Matters: Allow piped macarons to rest until the tops are dry before baking. Humidity can prolong drying time, so check your kitchen conditions to avoid mishaps.
What to Serve with Oreo Macarons?
Indulging in these delightful treats opens up a world of flavors to accompany your sweet journey.
- Rich Espresso: The bold flavor of espresso beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the macarons, creating a sophisticated pairing.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a pop of freshness and a tangy bite that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream enhances the dessert experience and adds a luxurious, cold element to the delightfully chewy macarons.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling a rich chocolate ganache over your macarons can provide an extra layer of indulgence, intensifying the chocolate flavor.
- Sparkling Wine: A glass of sparkling wine adds an airy touch, making it a delightful pairing for celebrations or elegant gatherings. The bubbles elevate the dessert experience!
- Milkshake: For a fun twist, serve with a chocolate or vanilla milkshake; the creamy texture makes for a delightful pairing, evoking childhood nostalgia.
- Lemon Tart: The tartness of a lemon dessert balances out the sweetness of the Oreo macarons, presenting a refreshing contrast.
- Coffee: Whether it’s a robust dark roast or a milky latte, coffee is the classic companion to any sweet treat, enhancing the rich flavors of the macarons.
Each pairing option adds a unique element to the experience, so get creative and enjoy the indulgence!
Oreo Macarons Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize these macarons with exciting flavors and textures!
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Classic Cocoa: Substitute black cocoa powder with regular cocoa powder for a slightly lighter chocolate flavor.
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Flavorful Extracts: Experiment with almond or mint extracts in the filling for a refreshing twist that complements the chocolate shells.
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Crunchy Delight: Mix crushed Oreos into the vanilla cream filling to give your macarons an extra crunch and a boost of Oreo flavor.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and shortening for the filling to create a delicious dairy-free macaron without sacrificing taste.
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Nutty Twist: Replace some almond flour with finely ground hazelnuts for a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling for a surprising, spicy kick that enhances the sweetness.
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Different Colors: Swap in different gel food colorings to create vibrant, eye-catching macarons that are sure to impress at any gathering.
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Seasonal Flavors: Incorporate seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice or peppermint during the holiday season for a festive touch that warms the soul.
How to Store and Freeze Oreo Macarons
Room Temperature: Store unfilled macaron shells in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain their texture.
Fridge: Once assembled with the vanilla cream filling, keep your Oreo macarons in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This resting period enhances their flavor and chewy texture.
Freezer: To freeze, place filled macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If you prefer warm macarons, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Enjoy the delightful flavor of your Oreo macarons!
Make Ahead Options
These Oreo macarons are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor. You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance—simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The vanilla cream filling can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just make sure to let it come back to room temperature before piping onto the shells. When you’re ready to impress your guests, simply assemble the macarons by pairing the filled shells and enjoy the delightful taste as if they were just made! This prep method ensures your macarons remain just as delicious and fresh while giving you the gift of time.
Oreo Macarons Recipe FAQs
What type of almond flour should I use for Oreo macarons?
For the best results, I recommend using finely ground almond flour. This ensures your macaron shells have a smooth texture. If you can find blanched almond flour, that’s even better, as it will help create those perfect, delicate shells that everyone loves.
How should I store my Oreo macarons?
Once filled, store your Oreo macarons in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This not only keeps them fresh but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If they are unfilled, you can keep the shells at room temperature for about 3 days in an airtight container; just remember to keep them away from humidity!
Can I freeze Oreo macarons?
Absolutely! To freeze your macarons, I suggest placing filled ones in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
What should I do if my macarons crack while baking?
If your macarons crack, it’s likely due to overmixing or perhaps the oven temperature was too high. Be sure to fold the batter gently until it flows like lava and watch your oven temperature carefully—macarons bake best at 300°F (149°C). If you find yourself in a humid environment, consider extending the drying time before baking.
Are there any dietary considerations for these macarons?
Yes, these Oreo macarons are gluten-free due to the use of almond flour, making them a great indulgence for those with gluten sensitivities. However, if you’re concerned about allergies, be cautious with ingredients like almond flour and check for any specific allergies to nuts. You can substitute the filling with dairy-free options if you’re looking for a vegan-friendly treat.
How long do macarons need to rest before baking?
Let your piped macarons rest for 35-45 minutes until the tops feel dry to the touch. This resting period is crucial, as it helps form a skin on the shells, allowing them to rise and develop the signature “foot” that makes macarons so delightful. If the environment is particularly humid, you may need to allow a bit more time for drying.
Decadent Oreo Macarons with Creamy Vanilla Filling
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Ensure all equipment is free from grease and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine almond flour, powdered sugar, and black cocoa powder in a mixing bowl. Sift together twice.
- Heat granulated sugar and egg whites in a double boiler until frothy. Transfer to a stand mixer, beat until stiff peaks form, adding salt and vanilla during whipping.
- Gently fold dry ingredients into the meringue until the batter flows like lava.
- Pipe 1.5-inch rounds on prepared mats, tap sheets to release air bubbles, and let rest for 35-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 300°F. Bake for 16 minutes, rotating halfway for even cooking.
- Cool completely on the baking sheet before removing. Store in an airtight container if not using immediately.
- Beat butter, shortening, powdered sugar, and vanilla for the filling. Pipe onto half of the shells and sandwich with remaining halves.