Peppermint Bark Macarons

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Macarons are a delicate, indulgent treat that never fails to impress. Their crisp, slightly chewy shells paired with smooth fillings create a perfect bite. When you add festive flavors like peppermint and rich chocolate, you get a dessert that feels just right for the holiday season. These Peppermint Bark Macarons, with their refreshing minty notes and luxurious ganache fillings, are a holiday showstopper. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, with the crunch of the macaron shell giving way to the creamy, peppermint-infused chocolate ganache. Not only do they taste fantastic, but they also make for a stunning addition to your holiday dessert table.

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Perfect for those who love the combination of chocolate and peppermint, these macaroons feature two types of ganache: a smooth white chocolate ganache with a hint of peppermint and a dark chocolate ganache with an added peppermint kick. Topping it all off with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy canes makes these macarons a visual and sensory treat.

Ingredients

Chocolate Macaron Shells:

• 2 grams egg white powder (optional, read notes)
• 100 grams egg whites
• 100 grams white sugar
• 96 grams almond flour
• 75 grams powdered sugar
• 14 grams cocoa powder
• Brown food coloring (optional to deepen the color)

Peppermint White Chocolate Ganache:

• 85 grams white chocolate, chopped
• 28 grams heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
• 3 tbsp crushed peppermint candy canes

Peppermint Dark Chocolate Ganache:

• 150 grams dark chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
• 100 grams heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract

For the Top:

• 85 grams white chocolate
• 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy canes

Instructions

Chocolate Macaron Shells

1. Prepare Ingredients and Equipment:
   Start by getting all your ingredients ready. Prepare a large piping bag fitted with a 1/2” round tip. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients:
   Sift the powdered sugar, almond flour, and cocoa powder together to ensure a smooth, clump-free batter. Set aside.
3. Make Meringue:
   In a heatproof bowl, whisk the egg whites and sugar (along with the egg white powder, if using) and place the bowl over a pan with simmering water. Whisk until the sugar has dissolved completely, about 2 minutes. Be cautious not to let the bottom of the bowl touch the water.
4. Whisk Egg Whites:
   Transfer the sugar and egg white mixture to a stand mixer. Using the whisk attachment, start whisking on low, gradually increasing the speed to medium, and then to high. Once the meringue forms stiff peaks, stop mixing.
5. Fold in Dry Ingredients:
   Gently fold the sifted almond flour mixture into the meringue using a spatula. Start by folding in a “J” shape, and gradually mix until the batter is glossy and flows like lava. Add brown food coloring if desired.
6. Test Consistency:
   Test the batter’s consistency by lifting some on your spatula and trying to form a figure 8. If the batter flows without breaking, it is ready for piping.
7. Pipe the Shells:
   Transfer the batter into the piping bag and pipe circles onto your prepared baking sheets. Tap the baking sheets on the counter a few times to release air bubbles. Let the macarons sit for 20-40 minutes, depending on humidity, until the surface feels dry to the touch.
8. Bake the Macarons:
   Preheat your oven to 300ºF (150ºC). Bake one tray at a time for 15-20 minutes, rotating halfway through. The macarons should have formed feet and a deeper color. Allow them to cool completely.

Peppermint White Chocolate Ganache

1. Prepare the Ganache:
   Chop the white chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl. Heat the cream until it almost boils, then pour it over the white chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then whisk until completely smooth.
2. Add Peppermint Flavor:
   Stir in the peppermint extract and crushed candy canes. Let the ganache cool to room temperature. For quicker cooling, refrigerate for 10-minute intervals, stirring between, until thickened.

Peppermint Dark Chocolate Ganache

1. Prepare the Ganache:
   Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a bowl. Heat the cream in a pan or microwave until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute.
2. Mix and Add Peppermint Flavor:
   Stir until smooth. Add peppermint extract and mix well. Let the ganache come to room temperature. If it’s too thin to pipe, refrigerate for a few minutes until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.

Assembling the Macarons

1. Prepare the Ganache for Piping:
   Fit a piping bag with a small round tip and fill it with the Peppermint Dark Chocolate Ganache. Pipe a ring around the edge of each bottom macaron shell.
2. Add White Chocolate Ganache:
   Spoon some Peppermint White Chocolate Ganache into the center of each shell.
3. Top and Decorate:
   Gently press another macaron shell on top. Melt the white chocolate for the topping and dip the tops of the macarons in the melted white chocolate. Use a toothpick to smooth the chocolate and remove any air bubbles. Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candy canes.

Storage

Store the finished macarons in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.

Tips for Success

• Egg White Powder: This ingredient is optional but can help create fuller, more stable shells, especially when you’re using a lot of food coloring.
• Food Coloring: Use gel food coloring for the best results, as it doesn’t alter the batter’s consistency. Be cautious with the amount, especially when making chocolate macarons.
• Scale and Accuracy: Macaron baking requires precise measurements. Using a kitchen scale will help you achieve perfect results.
• Baking Time: Every oven is different, so you may need to adjust the temperature or baking time. Make sure to monitor the macarons closely, and rotate the tray if needed.
• White Chocolate: Choose a high-quality white chocolate with at least 20% cocoa butter content for the ganache.

Serving Suggestions

Peppermint Bark Macarons are perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or as a special treat for yourself. Serve them alongside a hot cup of cocoa or coffee to bring out the rich flavors of peppermint and chocolate. For an elegant touch, place them on a dessert platter and sprinkle a bit of edible gold dust or sugar crystals for added festive flair.

The combination of peppermint and chocolate makes these macarons a holiday favorite. They’re sure to wow your guests and become a cherished part of your seasonal celebrations.