If you have a soft spot for the nostalgic campfire treat but want to elevate it into an elegant dessert, this S’mores French Macarons Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine that delicate, crisp shell giving way to a luscious chocolate ganache, marshmallow fluff, and a hint of graham cracker crunch—that perfect balance of chewy, creamy, and crispy all in one bite. It’s a beautiful blend of classic s’mores charm and French sophistication that never fails to impress guests or satisfy late-night sweet cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the S’mores French Macarons Recipe is the simplicity and quality of each ingredient. Every element, from the finely ground almond flour to the vibrant cocoa powder, plays a crucial role in delivering the macarons’ signature texture and rich flavor profile.
- 105 grams egg whites: For that airy meringue base that gives macarons their iconic lift and delicate shell.
- 130 grams powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a smooth macaron shell surface.
- 120 grams almond flour, fine ground: The nutty flour is essential for the tender yet firm macaron body.
- 2 tablespoons natural cocoa: Infuses a subtle chocolate flavor and beautiful deep color.
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar: Stabilizes the egg whites, creating that perfect meringue structure.
- 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted: Contributes richness and smooth texture to the filling.
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar: Used again for the creamy marshmallow frosting layer.
- 3/4 cups marshmallow fluff: The signature gooey, sticky note that makes these macarons true to s’mores.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the marshmallow cream.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Helps stabilize the frosting, preventing it from being too runny.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the final dusting or incorporation into frosting.
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream: Adds smoothness to the chocolate mixture.
- 1 tablespoon chocolate powder (natural or Dutch): Intensifies the chocolate ganache’s flavor.
- 2 sheets graham crackers: Crushed for that classic s’mores crunch on top.
- 1 tablespoon tiny dehydrated marshmallow bits: For a textured garnish that amplifies the marshmallow magic.
How to Make S’mores French Macarons Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Chocolate Ganache
Begin by finely chopping your dark chocolate and placing it in a large bowl. Heat heavy cream until hot and pour it over the chocolate, allowing it to sit for a couple of minutes. Then mix until you have a glossy, smooth ganache. Let this thicken—it should be luscious but firm enough to hold its shape between your macaron layers.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift together almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder. This ensures no lumps and gives your macarons a flawless finish, while the cocoa lends that irresistible chocolate twist.
Step 3: Whip the Meringue
Use a stand mixer to whisk the egg whites until they’re foamy. Add cream of tartar, then slowly add granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Getting this step just right will guarantee those airy, meringue shells that are light yet sturdy.
Step 4: Fold and Pipe the Batter
Gently fold the dry mix into the meringue until your batter looks like flowing lava—smooth but thick enough to hold its shape. Pipe neat, 1-inch rounds onto silicone mats or parchment; smooth circles will bake evenly and look stunning.
Step 5: Rest and Bake
Let your piped macarons rest at room temperature for 30 to 40 minutes. This resting allows a delicate “skin” to form, essential for their signature “feet” during baking. Bake at 300°F for 13-15 minutes, then cool completely before handling.
Step 6: Assemble and Decorate
Match up macaron shells in pairs. Dip the tops in melted dark chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed graham cracker crumbs for that nostalgic crunch. Prepare Swiss meringue by whisking egg whites and sugar over simmering water until 160°F, then beat to stiff peaks. Pipe this elegant frosting around the edges of the macaron base, add a dollop of chocolate ganache in the center, and gently toast with a culinary blowtorch. Finish by topping with the chocolate-dipped shell to complete the s’mores look.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Place your assembled macarons in an airtight container and refrigerate for 12-24 hours to let the flavors marry beautifully. Bring to room temperature about an hour before serving to enjoy their full luscious texture and richness.
How to Serve S’mores French Macarons Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of tiny dehydrated marshmallow bits or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top of your macarons adds dimension and visual appeal. These finishing touches echo the classic s’mores vibe while giving your guests a hint of what’s inside.
Side Dishes
Serve your S’mores French Macarons Recipe alongside a rich cup of hot chocolate or a robust espresso. The warmth and bitterness from the beverages perfectly complement the sweet, creamy macarons, creating a balanced, indulgent experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider presenting these macarons on a wooden platter dotted with mini marshmallows, pieces of graham crackers, and a few chocolate shards. You could also arrange them in a tiered dessert display for a celebration or package a few in a pretty box as a thoughtful handmade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover macarons in an airtight container inside the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. This resting time actually enhances the flavors, letting every bite become more harmonious and even more delightful.
Freezing
Macarons freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag. They keep well for up to one month. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
Bring your macarons to room temperature naturally—avoid microwaving as it can soften the shells. Letting them sit out for about an hour is perfect to regain their signature chewy-crisp contrast and luxurious filling texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chocolate for the ganache?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate gives a rich, intense flavor, but milk or semi-sweet chocolate can also work well if you prefer a sweeter, creamier ganache. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Why do my macarons crack during baking?
Cracking usually means your batter is either too dry or your oven temperature is too high. Make sure to fold the batter gently to the correct consistency and use an oven thermometer to maintain steady heat around 300°F.
What is the purpose of resting macarons before baking?
Resting lets a thin skin form on the surface, preventing cracking and helping develop the classic macaron “feet” during baking. It’s a crucial step for aesthetics and texture.
Can I make these without a stand mixer?
You can, but it requires some arm strength! Whisk the meringue by hand until stiff peaks form; this will take longer but achieves the same airy foundation for your macarons.
How do I know when my macarons are perfectly baked?
They should have firm shells that peel off the baking paper easily and feet at the base. The interior should be chewy yet soft without being doughy. Letting them cool fully helps set these textures.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this S’mores French Macarons Recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again to impress friends or treat yourself to that special sweet moment. It’s the perfect way to blend a classic childhood favorite with a touch of French elegance—and really, what’s not to love? Go ahead, dive into this delicious project and make your day a little sweeter.
Print
S’mores French Macarons Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
Delight in these decadent S’mores French Macarons, combining the delicate texture of classic French macarons with the rich flavors of s’mores. Featuring a cocoa-infused almond flour shell, silky chocolate ganache, toasted Swiss meringue, and a graham cracker crunch, these elegant treats are perfect for any special occasion or a gourmet dessert experience.
Ingredients
Macaron Shells
- 105 grams egg whites
- 130 grams powdered sugar
- 120 grams almond flour, fine ground
- 2 tablespoons natural cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Chocolate Ganache
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Dark chocolate, finely chopped (quantity not specified, approx. 100 grams recommended)
- Heavy cream (quantity not specified, approx. 1/4 cup)
Swiss Meringue
- Egg whites (quantity consistent with recipe, 2 large, approx. 70 grams)
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
Decor and Filling
- 3/4 cup marshmallow fluff
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting or garnish)
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream (for dusting)
- 1 tablespoon chocolate powder (natural or Dutch)
- 2 sheets graham crackers, crushed
- 1 tablespoon tiny dehydrated marshmallow bits
Instructions
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: Finely chop the dark chocolate and place it in a large bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes until hot. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for two minutes. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Let the ganache sit until it thickens to hold its shape.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift together almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder into a large bowl to ensure no lumps and even mixing.
- Whip Egg Whites: Using a stand mixer, whisk egg whites until foamy and then add cream of tartar. Gradually add granulated sugar, whisking continuously until stiff peaks form.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the whipped egg whites until achieving a “flowing lava” consistency, which means the batter flows smoothly without breaking.
- Pipe Macarons: Pipe 1-inch rounds onto a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Tap the baking sheet to release any air bubbles.
- Rest Macarons: Let the macarons rest for 30-40 minutes until a skin forms on the surface. This helps prevent cracking during baking.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 13-15 minutes. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before removing.
- Decorate Shells: Match up macaron shells by size. Dip the top of one shell in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers.
- Prepare Swiss Meringue: Whisk egg whites and sugar over simmering water until the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C) to create a Swiss meringue. Remove from heat and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble Macarons: Pipe Swiss meringue around the edge of one macaron shell. Add a small scoop of chocolate ganache in the center. Use a culinary blowtorch to lightly toast the meringue. Top with the chocolate-dipped shell to form the s’mores macaron.
- Rest & Serve: Place assembled macarons in an airtight container and refrigerate for 12-24 hours to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, let macarons come to room temperature for about one hour for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure egg whites are at room temperature before whipping for better volume.
- Be gentle when folding batter to maintain airiness necessary for macarons.
- Resting the macarons before baking is critical to prevent cracking and achieve the characteristic feet.
- The culinary blowtorch step is optional but adds authentic toasted meringue flavor.
- Storing macarons refrigerated improves flavor but let them come to room temperature before eating.
- Use high-quality chocolate and fresh almond flour for best results.
