Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of toasting almonds wafted through the air, transporting me to a cozy French patisserie. This moment inspired me to create Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds, a delightful French dessert that beautifully balances lightness and elegance. With their crunchy almond meringue layers and fluffy toasted almond cream filling, these cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a captivating experience perfect for gatherings or a well-deserved indulgence on a quiet evening. You’ll love how easy they are to whip up, making them approachable even for novice bakers. Plus, their versatility allows for flavor tweaks that suit any palate! Ready to create a little piece of culinary magic? Let’s dive in! Why choose Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds? Heavenly Flavor: The combination of almond meringue and creamy filling creates a luxurious taste sensation that you’ll crave again and again. Easy to Make: Despite their elegant appearance, these cookies are surprisingly simple, making them perfect for anyone, even if you’re new to baking. Versatile Delights: Feel free to experiment with flavors! Try adding a hint of citrus or swapping in different nut flours for a unique twist. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an afternoon tea, a festive gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these little clouds fit seamlessly into any event. Beautiful Presentation: With their delicate structure and delicate dusting of powdered sugar, they look impressive on any dessert table. You’ll feel like a professional patissier! If you’re also looking to elevate your dessert game, you might enjoy making some Coconut Cream Pancakes or indulging in a scoop of Lavender Ice Cream. Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds Ingredients For the Meringue Layers • Egg Whites – Provide structure and aeration for the meringue; ensure they are at room temperature for optimal volume. • Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and stabilizes the meringue; use moderate amounts for balance. • Powdered Sugar – Contributes sweetness while aiding the texture of the meringue; essential for a smooth finish. • Almond Flour – Gives flavor and a delicate texture; substitute with finely ground blanched almonds for best results. • Cornstarch – Assists in stabilizing the meringue; critical for achieving an airy texture. • Salt – Enhances flavor and aids egg white aeration. For the Cream Filling • Heavy Cream – The base for the creamy filling; for stability, opt for mascarpone or stabilized whipped cream if necessary. • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream filling, balancing the almond flavor. • Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor balance to the cream. • Toasted Sliced Almonds – Provides texture and accentuates the almond flavor; optional for decoration and crunch. Optional Finishes • Extra Powdered Sugar – For dusting to enhance presentation. • More Sliced Almonds – For added texture and visual appeal. Dive into the world of Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds and embrace these delightful ingredients to create a dessert that brings joy to any occasion! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 150°C (300°F). While it heats, line two baking trays with parchment paper to ensure your Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds bake evenly. This initial preparation sets the stage for the perfect meringue layers you’re about to create. Step 2: Prepare the Meringue In a large mixing bowl, start beating the room-temperature egg whites with a pinch of salt. Whip them on medium speed until soft peaks form, which should take about 2–3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to whip for another 4–5 minutes until the mixture becomes stiff and glossy, resembling a shiny cloud. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Sift together the powdered sugar, almond flour, and cornstarch into a separate bowl. This step helps to remove any lumps, ensuring a smooth texture in your meringue. Gently fold this mixture into the whipped egg white using a spatula, taking care not to deflate the airy consistency that you’ve just created. Step 4: Pipe Discs Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. On the prepared trays, pipe 8–10 cm wide discs, leaving enough space between each to allow for spreading. After piping, gently smooth the tops with a spatula or your finger for a polished look, making it easier for the layers to bake evenly. Step 5: Bake the Meringue Layers Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake the meringue layers for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the outer shells are dry and crisp to the touch. Once baked, turn off the oven and let the layers cool with the oven door slightly ajar, which helps prevent moisture from softening them. Step 6: Whip the Cream Filling While the meringues cool, prepare the almond cream filling. In a chilled mixing bowl, start whipping the heavy cream on medium speed until soft peaks begin to form, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then fold in the toasted sliced almonds for an added crunch and flavor. Step 7: Assemble the Cookies To assemble your Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds, take half of the cooled meringue discs and spread or pipe a generous amount of the almond cream onto their flat sides. Place the remaining discs on top to create delightful sandwiches, ensuring each filled layer is gently aligned for a beautiful presentation. Step 8: Add the Finishing Touch Finally, dust your assembled cookies lightly with powdered sugar to enhance their elegant look. If desired, sprinkle with additional sliced almonds for added texture and a stunning visual appeal. Serve these delectable treats shortly after assembly to maintain the ideal crispiness of the meringue layers. Expert Tips for Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping. This helps achieve maximum volume and stability in your meringue. Avoid Grease: Make sure all your mixing bowls and utensils are free from fat. Any trace can prevent your egg whites from whipping properly, resulting in flat meringue. Gentle Folding: When combining the dry ingredients with the meringue, be gentle! Over-mixing can deflate the air you’ve worked hard to incorporate, making the layers less airy and elegant. Cool It Down: Allow the meringue layers to cool gradually with the oven door ajar to avoid moisture loss. This helps maintain that delightful crunch that characterizes Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds. Assemble Right Before Serving: To keep the meringues crisp, assemble your cookies just before serving. Any leftovers should be stored in the fridge and consumed within 24 hours for the best texture. Make Ahead: You can prepare the meringue layers in advance; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days before filling them. Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds Variations Feel free to indulge your creativity and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste preferences! Nutty Twist: Substitute almond flour with finely ground hazelnut flour for a new flavor dimension. The rich, buttery taste of hazelnuts can elevate your cookie experience. Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the cream filling for a refreshing, bright note. A hint of citrus can beautifully complement the sweetness of the meringue. Spicy Kick: Introduce a dash of cinnamon or cardamom to the almond cream. These warm spices will add an exciting layer of flavor that dances on your taste buds. Decadent Chocolate: Fold in cocoa powder or chocolate ganache into the cream filling for a luscious chocolate version. Imagine the smooth chocolate melding with that light almond cream—pure bliss! Flavored Extracts: Swap vanilla extract with other flavor extracts like almond, rose, or even peppermint for a delightful twist. Each variant transforms the essence of the cream, paving the way for delightful surprises. Add a Crunch: Toss in some mini chocolate chips or crushed toffee bits into the cream for texture and a surprise crunch in each bite. This contrasting texture keeps every moment interesting! Colorful Meringues: For a fun twist, use gel food coloring to create vibrant meringue layers. Not only do they taste divine, but they also make for a stunning presentation. Tropical Vibes: Mix in sweetened shredded coconut into the filling for a tropical touch. Coconut provides a delightful chewiness that pairs perfectly with the lightsome meringue. And if your taste buds are still exploring, consider treating yourself to other delightful recipes, like Pistachio Cream Chocolate for a nutty surprise or savoring the rich flavors of Blueberry Cream Cheese for a cozy dessert! Make Ahead Options These Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the meringue layers up to 2 days in advance; just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. The creamy filling can be whipped up up to 24 hours ahead and kept refrigerated in a sealed container. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the cookies by spreading the cream filling between the meringue layers—this ensures they stay delightfully crunchy. By prepping in advance, you’ll enjoy a stress-free dessert experience that will impress your guests! How to Store and Freeze Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds Fridge: Store unfilled meringue discs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Filled cookies should be kept in the fridge and consumed within 24 hours for optimal freshness. Freezer: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze unfilled meringue discs for up to 2 weeks. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. Just remember to thaw them before filling! Reheating: For the best texture, do not reheat filled cookies. Instead, enjoy them cold for a delightful contrast to the crunch of the almond meringue. Room Temperature: If unfilled, the meringue layers can be kept at room temperature to maintain their crispiness, making them perfect for impromptu snacking! What to Serve with Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds These delicate French cookies pair beautifully with a variety of delightful accompaniments to elevate your dessert experience. Rich Dark Coffee: The bold flavors of a brewed espresso or dark roast coffee create a lovely contrast to the sweet meringue and creamy filling. Flavored Tea: A cup of chamomile or Earl Grey tea adds floral notes that harmonize wonderfully with the nutty flavors. Imagine sipping tea as you enjoy the delightful crunch of the cookies. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a bright burst of acidity that cuts through the sweetness, adding a refreshing touch to each bite. Serve them alongside the cookies for a beautiful presentation. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream serves as a luscious base! The cold, smooth texture complements the crisp meringue, making for a delightful mouthfeel. Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle a rich chocolate ganache over the cookies for an indulgent twist. The combination of chocolate and almond will delight chocolate lovers in your life! Almond Flavored Liqueur: A splash of Amaretto or other almond liqueur can enhance the nutty flavor profile, creating a cohesive tasting experience. Consider serving it in small glasses beside your cookies. Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can add a luxurious creaminess that balances the crunch of the almond dacquoise. Think of it as a plush pillow for your cookie. Embrace these delightful pairings for a truly sophisticated dining experience with your Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds! Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select egg whites for this recipe? Absolutely, the key to perfect meringue starts with your egg whites. Always use fresh eggs, and make sure they’re at room temperature. This helps incorporate air better, giving your meringue those lovely soft peaks! If any yolk gets into the whites, discard that mixture; even a tiny bit of fat can ruin your meringue. How should I store leftover Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds? Very good question! Unfilled meringue discs can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, once filled with cream, they should be kept in the fridge and consumed within 24 hours for the best texture. Make sure to keep them airtight to avoid moisture. Can I freeze the meringue layers? The more the merrier! Yes, you can freeze unfilled meringue discs for up to 2 weeks. Just layer them between pieces of parchment paper in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature before filling. This way, they’ll retain their delightful crunch! What should I do if my meringue doesn’t hold its shape? Don’t fret! If your meringue isn’t holding its shape, it could be due to several reasons. Ensure your bowls and utensils are completely grease-free. Also, you might have overmixed or undermixed the egg whites; soft peaks are key. If this happens, start over with new egg whites, as it’s crucial for achieving that lovely airy texture. Is there a vegan alternative for making Almond Dacquoise? Absolutely! For a vegan twist, consider using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) instead of egg whites. Whip it in the same way until stiff peaks form. Replace the heavy cream with a coconut whipped cream or a plant-based cream that can be whipped. You’ll still achieve those heavenly clouds, and your dessert will be suitable for everyone! Are there any allergens I should be aware of? Very much! Besides the obvious nuts, if you or any of your guests have egg or dairy allergies, you’ll want to make substitutions. As mentioned, you can use aquafaba and a dairy-free cream for the filling. Always ensure that all ingredients are certified allergen-free, especially if you’re introducing these delights to someone with dietary restrictions. Heavenly Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds for a Sweet Indulgence Delight in these Almond Dacquoise Cream Clouds, a French dessert featuring light almond meringue and creamy filling. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 12 cookiesCourse: DessertsCuisine: FrenchCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meringue Layers4 large Egg Whites At room temperature200 grams Granulated Sugar Moderate amount for balance100 grams Powdered Sugar Essential for smooth finish200 grams Almond Flour Substitute with finely ground blanched almonds1 tablespoon Cornstarch For stabilizing the meringue1 pinch Salt Enhances flavorFor the Cream Filling500 ml Heavy Cream Opt for mascarpone or stabilized whipped cream if necessary50 grams Powdered Sugar Sweetens the cream filling1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Adds aromatic flavor100 grams Toasted Sliced Almonds Optional for decoration and crunchOptional Finishes50 grams Extra Powdered Sugar For dusting to enhance presentation50 grams More Sliced Almonds For added texture Equipment Mixing Bowlpiping bagspatulaBaking traysparchment paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Line two baking trays with parchment paper. Beat the room-temperature egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form, about 2–3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, whipping until stiff and glossy, about 4–5 minutes. Sift together the powdered sugar, almond flour, and cornstarch. Gently fold this mixture into the whipped egg whites using a spatula. Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag. Pipe 8–10 cm wide discs onto the prepared trays, smoothing tops as needed. Bake the meringue layers for 40–45 minutes, until dry and crisp. Let them cool with the oven door slightly ajar. Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then fold in toasted sliced almonds. Spread or pipe almond cream onto half of the cooled meringue discs, then top with remaining discs to assemble cookies. Dust the assembled cookies lightly with powdered sugar before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with additional sliced almonds. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 30mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor maximum meringue volume, ensure egg whites are at room temperature. Assemble cookies before serving to keep meringues crisp. Unfilled meringue discs can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
