Name: Delightful Santa Claus Macarons to Sweeten Your Holidays
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 110 g Domino® Golden Sugar (substitute with light brown sugar for a deeper taste); 1 tbsp Egg White Powder (optional); 100 g Egg Whites (ensure they are at room temperature); 125 g Almond Flour (substitute with finely ground hazelnuts or coconut flour for nut-free); 200 g Domino® Powdered Sugar; 2 drops Gel Food Coloring (Red) (high-quality gel or powder for intensity); 50 g Meringue Powder (can be replaced with more powdered sugar if unavailable); 50 ml Water (used for mixing to desired consistency); 50 g All-Purpose Flour (ensure it's heat-treated for safety); 115 g Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1 tsp Almond Extract; 2 tbsp Milk or Heavy Cream (to adjust consistency); optional g Desiccated Coconut (for decoration)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the cheerful sounds of holiday music fill the air, my kitchen transforms into a magical workshop where sweet creations come to life. Enter the world of festive baking with my Santa Claus Macarons, an enchanting treat that captures the spirit of Christmas. These delightful confections are not only visually stunning with their vibrant red shells, but they’re also made truly special with a rich Sugar Cookie Buttercream filling that adds a nostalgic twist to the classic French dessert. Perfect for holiday gatherings or charming gifts, these macarons offer both quick prep and a fun decorating experience that will delight friends and family alike. So, are you ready to embark on a sweet culinary adventure that will leave everyone wanting more? Let’s dive in!

Why are Santa Claus Macarons a must-try?

Festive Appeal: These macarons bring the holiday spirit alive with their cheerful Santa design, making them the perfect centerpiece for your festive gatherings.

Irresistible Flavor: A delightful Sugar Cookie Buttercream filling creates an enchanting flavor profile that evokes warm Christmas memories with every bite.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you’ll find these macarons surprisingly easy to whip up, even for beginner bakers.

Versatile Treat: Customize your macarons with different colors or fillings, making them not just delicious, but also unique as gifts or party favors.

Crowd Favorite: There’s something about their festive look and delightful taste that will impress guests, making them a hit at any holiday get-together.

Ready for more holiday baking inspiration? Check out my festive dessert ideas for more sweet treats to brighten your celebrations!

Santa Claus Macaron Ingredients

For the Macaron Shells
• Domino® Golden Sugar – Provides sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor; substitute with light brown sugar for a deeper taste.
• Egg White Powder (optional) – Helps stabilize meringue in humid climates; omit if humidity is low.
• Egg Whites – Essential for meringue structure; ensure they are at room temperature for best results.
• Almond Flour – Adds nutty flavor and texture; substitute with finely ground hazelnuts or coconut flour for a nut-free option.
• Domino® Powdered Sugar – Contributes sweetness and texture; essential for both macarons and filling.
• Gel Food Coloring (Red) – For vibrant red shells; high-quality gel or powder food coloring is crucial for intensity.

For the Royal Icing
• Meringue Powder – Stabilizes the royal icing; can be replaced with more powdered sugar if unavailable.
• Water – Used for mixing the royal icing to the desired consistency.

For the Sugar Cookie Buttercream Filling
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the buttercream; ensure it’s heat-treated for safety.
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich, creamy texture in the buttercream.
• Vanilla and Almond Extracts – Add depth to the flavor profile of the buttercream.
• Milk or Heavy Cream – Used to adjust the consistency of the buttercream.
• Desiccated Coconut – Provides a festive touch reminiscent of snow; optional but highly recommended for decoration.

With all these delightful ingredients, you’re one step closer to crafting your very own Santa Claus Macarons! Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Santa Claus Macarons

Step 1: Prep Work
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C) while you prepare your workspace. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats, ensuring they’re stable on your counter. Set up your piping bags with large round tips, ready for the Santa Claus Macarons. A clean and organized space makes it easier to focus on shaping those adorable red shells!

Step 2: Meringue Preparation
In a heatproof bowl, combine the Domino® Golden Sugar and egg white powder. Place this bowl over a saucepan filled with simmering water, stirring until the sugar dissolves—about 5 minutes. Then, remove from heat and whip the egg whites in a stand mixer until stiff peaks form. This meringue will create a light and airy structure for your macaron shells.

Step 3: Macaron Shells
Sift together the powdered sugar and almond flour in a separate bowl to ensure no lumps remain. Gently fold this mixture into the whipped meringue, creating a smooth, glossy batter that flows like lava. Add a few drops of red gel food coloring until you achieve your desired vibrancy. This is the base for your Santa Claus Macarons, creating a festive look!

Step 4: Piping the Macarons
Transfer the macaron batter into your prepared piping bags. Pipe small, uniform circles—about 1.5 inches in diameter—onto the lined baking sheets, leaving space between each. After piping, tap the trays softly against the counter to remove any air bubbles. Allow the piped shells to rest for about 30 minutes, or until the tops feel dry to the touch.

Step 5: Baking
Carefully place the first tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, keeping an eye on them. The macaron shells are done when they have formed feet and are firm to the touch, but still soft inside. Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this may cause them to crack. Use visual cues to determine perfect doneness for your Santa Claus Macarons!

Step 6: Royal Icing
While the macarons cool, prepare the royal icing. In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, meringue powder, and just enough water to reach a smooth piping consistency. Beat well until glossy and thick. If desired, tint the icing with gel colors to create Santa’s belt and buckle, ready for adorning your festive creations.

Step 7: Decoration
Once the macaron shells have cooled to room temperature, take half and carefully pipe the royal icing to create Santa’s belt and buckle on each. Allow the icing to set before moving on to the next step, ensuring a clean finish for your delightful Santa Claus Macarons. This decorative touch adds a charming flair to your holiday treats!

Step 8: Buttercream Filling
For the Sugar Cookie Buttercream, heat-treat the all-purpose flour in a saucepan for about 5 minutes, then let it cool. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled flour, unsalted butter, vanilla, and almond extracts. Mix until creamy and fluffy. Add milk or heavy cream gradually, adjusting the consistency until it’s perfect for piping between your macaron shells.

Step 9: Finishing Touches
Pipe a generous amount of buttercream filling onto the flat side of half the macaron shells. Carefully sandwich the other half on top, gently pressing them together. For an enchanting holiday look, roll the edges of the filled macarons in desiccated coconut to mimic snowy scenes, completing your beautiful Santa Claus Macarons!

How to Store and Freeze Santa Claus Macarons

Fridge: Store your Santa Claus Macarons in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, place the filled macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for 1-2 months. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.

Thawing: To enjoy, remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge for 1-2 hours before serving. This helps retain their texture and flavor!

Reheating: It’s not recommended to reheat macarons, as this may alter their delicate texture. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for the best experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Santa Claus Macarons are perfect for busy holiday bakers looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The Sugar Cookie Buttercream filling can also be made up to 3 days ahead; refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. When preparing to serve, just let the buttercream come to room temperature before piping it onto the shells, ensuring that it remains creamy and easy to work with. By prepping these components ahead, you’ll have delightful and charming macarons ready for your holiday gatherings with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Santa Claus Macarons

Perfect Consistency: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature before whipping. This helps achieve the right meringue structure for your Santa Claus Macarons.

Sifting Matters: Always sift almond flour and powdered sugar together. This minimizes lumps and contributes to the smooth texture of your macaron shells.

Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting period! Allow your piped macarons to sit until the tops are dry. This prevents cracking during baking.

Check for Doneness: Avoid opening the oven door while baking. Instead, look for the “feet” and a firm touch; this indicates that your macarons are ready.

Creative Customization: Have fun! Feel free to alter food coloring or try different fillings such as chocolate or peppermint, making your Santa Claus Macarons truly unique.

Santa Claus Macarons: Festive Variations

Feel free to embark on your creative journey and customize these delightful macarons with different flavors and textures!

Nut-Free: Swap almond flour with finely ground coconut or sunflower seed flour for a nut-free alternative.
Peppermint Twist: Integrate peppermint extract into the Sugar Cookie Buttercream for a refreshing holiday boost. It’s a seasonal favorite that jazzes up the sweet profile dramatically!
Chocolate Fans: Replace vanilla and almond extracts in the buttercream with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate filling. Pairing chocolate with the festive red will delight any sweet tooth!
Milky Way: For a creamy filling, try using a mix of milk chocolate and caramel sauce in place of buttercream, offering an indulgent texture that melts in your mouth.
Fruity Delight: Infuse some fruit flavor by adding raspberry or strawberry puree to your buttercream, enhancing the sweetness with a refreshing zing! The bright colors will pop beautifully against the red shells.
Spice It Up: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the macaron shell batter for a warm, spicy kick that complements the holly jolly theme perfectly.
Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use almond or oat milk in the buttercream for a delicious dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Grown-Up Treat: Incorporate a splash of your favorite liqueur, such as Baileys or Kahlúa, into the filling for a sophisticated twist that will impress adult guests at your holiday gatherings.

With all these exciting variations, your Santa Claus Macarons can be as diverse as your holiday celebrations! Dive into these ideas and explore other beautiful options like my festive dessert ideas for even more delightful sweets this season!

What to Serve with Santa Claus Macarons

Elevate your holiday spread with delightful accompaniments that harmonize perfectly with these enchanting festive treats.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: This decadent drink, topped with whipped cream and mint sprinkles, complements the sweetness of the macarons beautifully while evoking cozy holiday vibes. Picture yourself sipping on this rich beverage alongside a tray of these red beauties.
Festive Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like pomegranate, kiwi, and oranges refreshes the palate and adds a burst of natural sweetness. The juicy flavors will provide a bright contrast to the creamy filling.
Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices of gingerbread echo the festive spirit and add a crunchy texture that balances the delicate macarons. A holiday classic, sharing both treats will create memorable moments around the table.
Spiced Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink is a holiday favorite, bringing warmth and nostalgia that beautifully complements the rich flavors of the macarons. Sipping it together creates a wonderfully festive ambiance.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet berries bring a fresh twist, their rich chocolate coating melting in your mouth alongside the macarons. The contrast of flavors makes each bite an unforgettable celebration of the season.
Peppermint Bark: A classic holiday treat, its peppermint flavor perfectly harmonizes with the warming sugar cookie buttercream in the macarons. The crunch from the bark adds a satisfying texture that will delight your guests.

Let the festivities begin with these delicious pairings that promise to make your holiday gatherings even more unforgettable!

Santa Claus Macarons Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting egg whites?
Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping. This is crucial for achieving the ideal meringue structure in your Santa Claus Macarons. Fresh, large egg whites will yield the best results, and avoiding any egg yolk contamination is key for a stable meringue.

How should I store my Santa Claus Macarons?
Store your Santa Claus Macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their crisp texture and delightful flavor. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and keep them away from strong odors that can affect their taste.

Can I freeze Santa Claus Macarons, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your macarons, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring all excess air is removed. They can be stored for up to 1-2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw a desired amount in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving.

What if my macaron shells crack during baking?
If your macaron shells crack, it’s often due to insufficient resting time or an overly humid environment. Make sure to let the piped batter rest until they form a dry shell on top, which usually takes about 30 minutes. Also, if you’re baking in high humidity, using egg white powder can help stabilize the meringue.

Are Santa Claus Macarons safe for those with nut allergies?
Since almond flour is a primary ingredient in Santa Claus Macarons, those with nut allergies should avoid this recipe. However, you can safely substitute almond flour with finely ground coconut flour or finely ground oats to create a nut-free version while maintaining a lovely texture.

How can I prevent my macarons from becoming hollow?
To avoid hollow macarons, be cautious not to over-whip your egg whites — this can create too much air in the meringue. Carefully fold the powdered sugar and almond flour mixture into the meringue until you reach a smooth, glossy batter. Also, ensure that you do not skip the resting phase before baking, as this helps form a stable crust on the macarons.