Lemon Zest Macarons

Lemon Zest Macarons - A Delightful French Dessert
Lemon Zest Macarons are a classic French dessert that is perfect for any occasion. These delicate and delicious treats are made with almond flour, egg whites, sugar, and lemon zest. They are light, airy, and bursting with lemony flavor.
Ingredients (Makes 12-15 Macarons):

For the Macarons:

- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 egg whites
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest

For the Filling:

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Cooking Tips:

- Use room temperature egg whites for best results.
- Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together to ensure a smooth texture.
- Let the macarons cool completely before filling them.

Cooking Process:

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, powdered sugar, and lemon zest.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add in the granulated sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is glossy and holds stiff peaks.
4. Gently fold the almond flour mixture into the egg white mixture until fully combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Tap the baking sheet on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.
7. Let the macarons sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to form a skin.
8. Bake the macarons for 15-18 minutes, or until they are set and lightly golden.
9. Let the macarons cool completely on the baking sheet before removing them.
10. To make the filling, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined.
11. Transfer the filling to a piping bag and pipe onto the flat side of half of the macarons. Top with the remaining macarons to form sandwiches.
Appearance and Taste:
Lemon Zest Macarons are a beautiful pale yellow color with a smooth, shiny surface. They have a light, airy texture and a delicate lemon flavor that is both sweet and tangy. The filling is creamy and rich, with a bright lemony taste that perfectly complements the macarons.
Type of Dish: French Dessert
Main Ingredients: Almond Flour, Egg Whites, Lemon Zest