Pastel Macarons with Royal Icing Christmas Decor

1. Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift the powdered sugar and almond flour together into a large bowl. Discard any large pieces.
2. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
3. Fold Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue in batches. Use a spatula to fold until the batter flows like lava (it should form ribbons that slowly disappear).
4. Add Color: Divide the batter into separate bowls and add pastel gel food coloring to each. Mix gently to avoid deflating the batter.
5. Pipe the Shells: Transfer the batter to piping bags fitted with round tips. Pipe 1-inch circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Tap the tray on the counter to release air bubbles.
6. Rest the Shells: Let the shells sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until a skin forms (they should feel dry to the touch).
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake for 14-16 minutes, rotating the tray halfway through. Let cool completely before removing from the tray.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Cream Butter: In a bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
2. Add Sugar & Flavoring: Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable.
3. Fill the Macarons: Pipe a small amount of filling onto one shell and sandwich it with another. Set aside.

Step 3: Decorate with Royal Icing

1. Make Royal Icing: In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water. Beat until stiff peaks form. Adjust the consistency for piping by adding water a drop at a time.
2. Color the Icing: Divide the icing into bowls and tint with gel food coloring. White, gold, and silver work beautifully for holiday designs.
3. Pipe Designs: Use a fine piping tip to create delicate Christmas-themed decorations on the macaron shells:
   • Snowflakes: Pipe intricate snowflake patterns in white or silver.
   • Christmas Trees: Add small trees with pastel “ornaments.”
   • Stars & Garland: Use dots, lines, and swirls for festive flair.
   • Letters: Write holiday phrases like “Joy,” “Noel,” or “Merry.”
4. Add Sparkle: Before the icing dries, sprinkle edible glitter or sanding sugar for a magical touch.
5. Let Dry: Allow the royal icing to dry completely (2-3 hours) before serving or packaging.

Tips for Success

• Be Patient with Macaronage: Folding the batter correctly is key to achieving the perfect consistency.
• Use Gel Colors: Gel food coloring ensures vibrant colors without altering the batter’s texture.
• Let Shells Rest: Resting the shells before baking prevents cracks and helps create the signature “feet.”

These Pastel Macarons with Royal Icing Christmas Decor are as delicious as they are stunning. Perfect for gifting, dessert tables, or just to treat yourself, these dainty cookies will bring holiday cheer to everyone! 🎄✨