Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I sifted the almond flour and powdered sugar, a curious thought popped into my mind: how had I not made Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons before? These delicate French treats, with their crispy shells and luscious fillings, blend sweetness and a hint of tartness that can brighten even the gloomiest day. One of the best perks of this recipe is how approachable it is; you don’t need to be an expert pastry chef to create these gorgeous desserts! Plus, they’re on the low-calorie side, making them a guilt-free indulgence for any occasion. With the rich ganache and the vibrant raspberry jam nestled between two airy shells, these macarons are sure to become a favorite among friends and family. Who’s ready to embark on a little baking adventure and impress with an elegant touch? Why not homemade macarons? Simplicity: The method is easy to follow, making it accessible even for novice bakers. Elegant Treat: Perfect for special occasions, these beautiful treats add sophistication to any dessert table. Flavor Explosion: The rich dark chocolate ganache paired with tangy raspberry jam creates a delightful balance that’s hard to resist. Versatile: Customize the fillings and colors for various celebrations or personal tastes. For more delicious fillings, check out our recipe for Raspberry Chocolate Mousse! Crowd-Pleaser: These macarons are bound to impress your family and friends, leaving them wanting more. Low-Calorie Indulgence: Enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt, making them suitable for any dessert lover! Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macaron Ingredients • Ready to create dreamy Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons? Here’s what you’ll need! For the Macaron Shells Almond Flour – Finely ground for smooth macarons; this nutty base is essential for texture. Powdered Sugar – Sweetness is key; helps create a silkier meringue. Egg Whites (room temperature) – Essential for aeration and achieving maximum volume. Granulated Sugar – Stabilizes the meringue; add it gradually for the best results. Cream of Tartar – Provides stability; crucial for a perfect meringue. Salt – Enhances flavors; a pinch is all you need. Black Gel Food Coloring – Optional for a touch of elegance; consider using it for special occasions. For the Dark Chocolate Ganache Dark Chocolate (chopped) – The star of the show; use high-quality chocolate for richness. Heavy Cream – Melts with chocolate for ganache; heat until simmering for ideal mixing. Unsalted Butter – Adds a glossy finish and body to the ganache. For the Filling Raspberry Jam – The sweet-tart filling; substitute with strawberry jam if desired. Now you’re one step closer to crafting a delightful batch of Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons Step 1: Prepare the Meringue Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, whip the room temperature egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually incorporate granulated sugar and cream of tartar, increasing speed to high, until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy. This meringue will be the base of your Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons. Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, sift together the finely ground almond flour and powdered sugar. This step is crucial for achieving smooth macaron shells, as it helps eliminate clumps in the almond flour. Make sure the mixture is fine and uniform; this will ensure that your shells rise beautifully during baking, creating that signature macaron texture. Step 3: Fold Mixtures Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the prepared meringue using a silicone spatula. This step requires care to avoid deflating the meringue; the batter should achieve a “lava-like” consistency, where it flows slowly off the spatula. Aim for a smooth mixture without any streaks of dry ingredients remaining, ensuring a well-incorporated batter for your Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons. Step 4: Pipe the Macarons Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each macaron to allow for spreading. Once piped, gently tap the baking sheets on the counter to release any air bubbles. Let them rest for 30-60 minutes until a skin forms on the surface, which will help create a beautiful shell. Step 5: Bake With your oven preheated, bake the macarons for 15-18 minutes, rotating the baking sheets halfway through for even baking. The shells should be firm to the touch and have developed a little “foot” at the base. Avoid opening the oven during baking, as the falling temperature can affect the rising process. Once baked, remove and let them cool completely on the baking sheets. Step 6: Make Ganache While the macaron shells cool, prepare the dark chocolate ganache. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt, then stir until smooth. Add unsalted butter to achieve a glossy finish and let the ganache cool slightly before using. Step 7: Assembly To assemble your Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons, pair similar-sized macaron shells. Spread a dollop of raspberry jam on one shell, followed by a layer of the cooled ganache. Carefully place another shell on top, creating a delightful sandwich. Repeat until all macaron shells are filled, and enjoy the beautifully balanced flavors of your scrumptious creations! Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons Variations Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these fun twists on your macaron adventure! Flavor Swap: Consider using lemon curd or nutella as an enticing alternative filling. Adding zest can brighten the flavor while nutella brings a creamy richness. Colorful Shells: Try incorporating different food colors into your batter for festive occasions. Imagine vibrant blue, pink, or green macarons; they will add a joyful touch to any dessert table! Nutty Twist: Add pistachio flour to the almond flour for a unique flavor profile. This will give your macarons a delightful nutty taste that’s simply unforgettable. Extra Crunch: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts (like hazelnuts or almonds) on the shells before baking for added texture. It provides a beautiful visual while enhancing that delightful crunch! Choco-Mint Delight: Replace raspberry jam with mint chocolate ganache for a refreshing take. The combination is wonderful and perfect for those who enjoy mint-flavored treats! Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into your ganache if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s a bold way to surprise your taste buds while celebrating the sweetness of dark chocolate. Caramel Infusion: Use salted caramel sauce as a filling instead of raspberry jam. The combination of rich caramel and dark chocolate will satisfy any sweet tooth! Fruity Fusion: Get creative by filling your macarons with mango or passion fruit curd. These tropical flavors can elevate the usual dessert experience, transporting you to a sunny paradise! For a delightful raspberry infusion, you can also explore our splendid Raspberry Tiramisu Bake or add some nutty flavors with our Pistachio Cream Chocolate that could complement these mouthwatering creations! Expert Tips for Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons Perfect Meringue: Ensure your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and grease-free to achieve the desired stiff peaks in your meringue. Rest Time Matters: Let the piped macarons rest for at least 30-60 minutes; this helps create a skin, leading to the iconic foot and smooth surface. Don’t Peek: Avoid opening the oven door while baking; a drop in temperature can cause the macarons to crack instead of rising beautifully. Cooling Strategy: Allow the macarons to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring; premature removal can lead to cracking and breakage. Flavor Adaptations: Get creative! Explore different fillings like lemon curd or chocolate ganache as alternatives to raspberry jam for your Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons. Make Ahead Options These decadent Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their delicate texture. The dark chocolate ganache can also be made ahead; refrigerate it in a covered container for up to 3 days—just reheat gently in the microwave to return it to a spreadable consistency before assembling. To finish, pair the shells with raspberry jam and the ganache, and you’ll have impressively elegant treats ready with minimal effort when the craving strikes! How to Store and Freeze Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons Room Temperature: Macarons are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their tender texture. Fridge: For longer storage, place the macarons in an airtight container in the fridge where they can stay fresh for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor. Freezer: You can freeze the assembled macarons for up to 1 month. Make sure they are in a single layer within an airtight container to prevent sticking. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. Reheating: There’s no need to reheat macarons, as they are best served at room temperature. Just let them sit for a few minutes after removing from the fridge or freezer. What to Serve with Decadent Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons? Pairing your exquisite macarons with complimentary sides enhances the experience of this delightful treat. Espresso: The bold flavors of espresso pair beautifully with the sweetness of the macarons, creating an indulgent coffee moment. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries provides a refreshing contrast, adding a burst of natural sweetness alongside the rich chocolate. Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic dessert adds a creaminess that balances the textures, while its mild sweetness harmonizes with the macarons. Sparkling Water with Lemon: The effervescence and citrus notes cleanse the palate after each bite, making it a refreshing option during dessert time. Chocolate Tart: If you’re feeling adventurous, a slice of rich chocolate tart pairs exquisitely with these macarons, intensifying the chocolate experience. Raspberry Sorbet: Light and fruity, this sorbet provides a sweet-tart punch that echoes the raspberry jam within the macarons. Enjoy its chill alongside those sweet bites! Rosemary Shortbread Cookies: A subtly herbed cookie can introduce an unexpected yet delightful flavor twist that complements the raspberry. Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea offers a soothing contrast that can elevate the flavors of the dark chocolate and raspberry. Red Wine: For an adult twist, a glass of fruity red wine adds depth to your dessert experience, making it truly special. Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best almond flour for macarons? Absolutely! When selecting almond flour, aim for finely ground options to achieve that smooth texture essential for macarons. Look for brands that specifically mention “finely ground” or “super-fine” on the packaging. This ensures a silky meringue that results in the perfect shell and avoids any clumps that could interfere with the baking process. What is the best way to store macarons? Very! To keep your Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, transfer them to the refrigerator where they can last up to 1 week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for the ultimate taste experience before serving! Can I freeze the macarons? Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons for up to 1 month. Just place them in a single layer within an airtight container to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge. They’ll taste just as delicious as the day you made them! What should I do if my macarons crack? Oh no! Cracked macarons can be a nuisance, but they often result from a few key issues. Make sure your oven is at the correct temperature, as baking at too high a temperature can cause them to rise too quickly and crack. Additionally, avoid opening the oven door while baking, as a sudden drop in temperature can lead to collapse. Lastly, ensure your egg whites are whipped to the right stiffness and that you allow the piped batter to rest and develop a skin before baking. Are there any allergy considerations for macarons? Very! Since macaroons use almond flour, those with nut allergies should avoid them or experiment with alternative gluten-free flours, such as oat flour, though results may vary. Additionally, if you’re serving to a group, be mindful of the chocolate ganache’s dairy content, as it contains heavy cream and butter. Let your guests know the ingredients, ensuring a delightful, worry-free treat for everyone! How long can the ganache sit before using it for the macarons? Of course! Once prepared, the dark chocolate ganache can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before using. Ensure it is still pourable but not too hot when spreading on the macarons. If it cools too much, give it a gentle stir to loosen it up again. Enjoy creating these sumptuous Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons! Decadent Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons to Indulge Your Sweet Tooth Delight in these Dark Chocolate Raspberry Macarons, featuring crispy shells and luscious fillings, perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 18 minutes minsResting Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 48 minutes mins Servings: 12 macaronsCourse: DessertsCuisine: FrenchCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Macaron Shells1 cup Almond Flour Finely ground for smooth macarons.1 cup Powdered Sugar Helps create a silkier meringue.3 large Egg Whites Room temperature, essential for aeration.1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Stabilizes the meringue.1/4 teaspoon Cream of Tartar Provides stability to the meringue.1/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors.1 drop Black Gel Food Coloring Optional for coloring.For the Dark Chocolate Ganache8 ounces Dark Chocolate Chopped, high-quality chocolate is recommended.1/2 cup Heavy Cream Heated to simmering before mixing.2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds body and gloss to the ganache.For the Filling1/2 cup Raspberry Jam Substitute with strawberry jam if desired. Equipment Mixing Bowlpiping bagsilicone spatulaSaucepan Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, whip egg whites until foamy, then incorporate granulated sugar and cream of tartar gradually until stiff peaks form.Sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar in a separate bowl to eliminate clumps, ensuring a smooth mixture.Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue using a silicone spatula until the batter reaches a "lava-like" consistency.Transfer the batter into a piping bag and pipe circles onto the prepared sheets. Tap the baking sheets to release air bubbles and let rest for 30-60 minutes.Bake the macarons for 15-18 minutes, rotating halfway through. They should be firm to the touch.To prepare the ganache, heat heavy cream until simmering, pour over chopped dark chocolate, and stir until smooth. Add butter for a glossy finish.Pair similar-sized macaron shells. Spread raspberry jam on one and ganache on the other, then sandwich them together. Nutrition Serving: 1macaronCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 30mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure mixing bowls and whisk are clean for perfect meringue. Let piped macarons rest for even results. Avoid opening the oven door during baking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
