Name: Delightful Santa Claus Macarons With Festive Buttercream Filling
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 170 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Domino® Golden Sugar (Substitute with granulated sugar if unavailable.); 1 tbsp Egg White Powder (Optional for improved stability in humid climates.); 3 large Egg Whites (Must be at room temperature.); 1 cup Almond Flour (Swap with finely ground hazelnut flour for different flavor.); 1 cup Domino® Powdered Sugar (Sift to remove lumps before use.); 1 tbsp Gel Food Coloring (Red) (Use a combination of gel and powder for intensity.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Can be replaced with vegan butter for dairy-free option.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Needs to be heat-treated for safety.); 1 cup Desiccated Coconut (For decoration; omit for a simpler look.); 1 tbsp Meringue Powder (Can be replaced with fresh egg whites.); 1 cup Water (Adjust as needed for desired thickness.)

The sight of these whimsical Santa Claus Macarons has the power to transform any holiday gathering into a festive wonderland. With their striking red shells and delightful sugar cookie buttercream filling, these macarons are not just a treat for the taste buds, but a feast for the eyes, too. What’s truly magical is their balance of textures—the crisp exterior giving way to a soft, chewy center that melts in your mouth. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they’re also remarkably quick to make, turning your kitchen into a holiday haven in no time. As the festive season approaches, why not treat your loved ones to these charming cookies that are perfect for sharing—or enjoying all to yourself? Are you ready to whip up a batch of these delightful Santa Claus Macarons?

Why Are Santa Claus Macarons So Special?

Creativity at Play: These Santa Claus Macarons are not only delicious but also an artistic project that allows your inner child to shine.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sugar cookie buttercream with a subtle almond flavor creates an irresistible sweet sensation.
Festive Presentation: Their cheerful red color and whimsical designs make them a showstopper at holiday parties.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can prepare these delights without fuss, making them an ideal choice for busy cooks.
Versatile Options: Swap the fillings or color for custom versions that cater to your family’s tastes while still maintaining their festive charm.
Treat your loved ones to these edible masterpieces that double as delightful decorations!

Santa Claus Macaron Ingredients

These delightful Santa Claus Macarons are a must-have for your holiday baking!

For the Macaron Shells

Domino® Golden Sugar – Adds sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor; substitute with granulated sugar if unavailable.
Egg White Powder – Optional for improved stability in humid climates; not needed if humidity is low.
Egg Whites – Provides structure and volume when whipped; must be at room temperature for best results.
Almond Flour – Essential for the macaron shell’s texture; swap with finely ground hazelnut flour for a different flavor.
Domino® Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth batter; sift to remove lumps before use.
Gel Food Coloring (Red) – Provides vibrant coloring for the macaron shells; use a combination of gel and powder for intensity.

For the Sugar Cookie Buttercream

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness to the buttercream; can be replaced with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
All-Purpose Flour – Needs to be heat-treated for safety in the buttercream; substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free options.
Desiccated Coconut – For decoration; adds texture and a snowy effect; omit for a simpler look.

For the Royal Icing

Meringue Powder – Aids in the stabilization of royal icing; can be replaced with fresh egg whites by adjusting water content.
Water – Activates royal icing consistency; adjust as needed to achieve the desired thickness.

Dive into creating these festive Santa Claus Macarons filled with delectable sugar cookie buttercream, and watch your holiday gatherings become even more special!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Santa Claus Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients to ensure a smooth baking process. Preheat your oven to 300ºF (150ºC) to get it ready for the macaron shells. This temperature will help achieve the perfect texture. Allow your egg whites to reach room temperature if they’re cold. Have your baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy macaron placement.

Step 2: Make Meringue
In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the Domino® Golden Sugar and water over a simmering pot of water until fully melted. Then, in a stand mixer, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form, which should take about 5-7 minutes on medium-high speed. Once combined, carefully pour the warm sugar syrup into the whipped egg whites, continuing to whip for another 3-5 minutes until glossy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together almond flour and powdered sugar into a separate bowl, ensuring no lumps remain. Gently fold this mixture into the meringue using a spatula. Add a drop of gel food coloring to give your Santa Claus Macarons their festive red hue, continuing to fold until the color is evenly incorporated and the batter flows smoothly like lava.

Step 4: Pipe Shells
Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. On your lined baking sheets, pipe equal-sized rounds about 1.5 inches apart. Each piped shell should look smooth and slightly glossy. Once piped, allow the shells to sit at room temperature for about 1-2 hours or until a skin forms on the surface, ensuring they won’t crack during baking.

Step 5: Bake
Carefully place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The macarons are done when they have formed their characteristic feet and are firm to the touch. Keep a close eye on them to avoid over-baking. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool completely on the sheets before removing.

Step 6: Make Royal Icing
In a mixing bowl, combine meringue powder, powdered sugar, and just enough water to achieve a glossy consistency. Mix on medium speed until stiff peaks form, usually around 4-6 minutes. Adjust the water until the icing is pipeable yet holds its shape. Set aside some of the royal icing to use for decoration.

Step 7: Decorate
Use the prepared royal icing to pipe festive details on half of the macaron shells, creating small belts and buckles. You can get creative with colors and designs! Ensure that your icing decorations are lively and inspiring, adding to the charm of your Santa Claus Macarons. Allow these decorations to set fully before proceeding.

Step 8: Prepare Buttercream
To make the sugar cookie buttercream, heat treat the all-purpose flour in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 5 minutes to eliminate any risks. In a mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the cooled flour and mix until smooth, adding milk for the desired creaminess, while enhancing the flavor with vanilla or almond extract.

Step 9: Assemble Macarons
Pipe a generous amount of the delicious sugar cookie buttercream onto the flat side of one macaron shell. Gently sandwich it with another shell, pressing lightly to create a cohesive treat. Once assembled, roll the edges in desiccated coconut for a snowy finish. Your Santa Claus Macarons are now ready to be showcased!

Step 10: Storage
Store your completed Santa Claus Macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 1-2 months. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their delightful texture fully!

Expert Tips for Santa Claus Macarons

Humidity Control: Use a dehumidifier if you’re in a humid climate to help stabilize your meringue, preventing it from becoming too soft or runny.
Drying Time is Key: Allow the piped macaron shells to dry fully until a skin forms before baking—this prevents cracking and helps them achieve the perfect texture.
Visual Check for Meringue: Instead of timing strictly, visually check for stiff peaks when whipping egg whites. Factors like bowl type and humidity can alter timing.
Color Early On: Add gel food coloring early when folding the macaron batter to ensure it doesn’t fade during baking and retains the vibrant festive hue throughout.
Don’t Skimp on Sifting: Always sift your almond flour and powdered sugar to avoid lumps in your batter—this will help create that smooth, characteristic shell of the Santa Claus Macarons.
Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to swap the sugar cookie buttercream with other flavors, like chocolate or vanilla, to keep things fun and personalized for your family!

How to Store and Freeze Santa Claus Macarons

Fridge: Store your Santa Claus Macarons in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will keep them fresh while maintaining their delightful texture and flavor.

Freezer: To freeze, place the assembled macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. They can last for 1-2 months without losing their charm.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen macarons in the refrigerator for a few hours. Let them come to room temperature before serving to savor their perfect texture and taste.

Reheating: Avoid reheating macarons as they are best enjoyed fresh or at room temperature. Enjoy their delightful flavor straight from storage!

Make Ahead Options

These Santa Claus Macarons are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance by baking them and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The Sugar Cookie Buttercream can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before piping. When you’re ready to assemble, simply take the shells out, pipe the buttercream, sandwich them together, and roll in coconut just before serving. This way, you’ll have delightful homemade treats with minimal last-minute effort, perfect for any holiday gathering!

Santa Claus Macarons: Fun Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful Santa Claus Macarons and make them your own!

Colorful Shells:
Use natural food colorings like beet or spirulina powder to create vibrant macaron shells, giving your festive treats a unique twist. Experimenting with colors makes baking even more fun!
Different Fillings:
Swap the sugar cookie buttercream for peppermint or chocolate buttercream for a seasonal flavor boost. Each variant offers a delightful surprise, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Nut-Free Alternative:
Substitute almond flour with finely ground sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. This allows everyone to enjoy your fabulous macarons, making them accessible for nut allergy guests.
Holiday Spices:
Infuse your buttercream with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a spiced version that evokes cozy feelings of the season. This twist adds warmth and depth, turning simple treats into holiday memories.
Coconut-Free Version:
Omit the desiccated coconut and use edible glitter instead for a sparkling touch. This adds a whimsical element that’s sure to enchant both children and adults alike.
Chocolate Drizzle:
Finish your macarons with a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. This added richness complements the sweet flavors beautifully and makes your macarons even more luxurious.
Savory Touch:
Experiment with savory fillings like cream cheese frosting or goat cheese with herbs for an unexpected twist. These options can create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the shells.
Decorative Accents:
Use fondant or royal icing decorations for added creative flair. Craft little hats or faces for your Santa Claus Macarons to take them to the next level of festive charm and fun!

By customizing your Santa Claus Macarons in these ways, you’ll be creating delightful variations that surprise and delight your loved ones, making every bake a cherished memory. For more inspiration, consider trying out beautiful macaron designs or learn about adjusting for dietary needs with your favorite flavors!

What to Serve with Santa Claus Macarons

The charm of these festive treats can be elevated with perfect pairings that enhance your holiday table.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, warm flavors of hot cocoa create a cozy combination with the sweetness of the macarons, making them a delightful duo.
Peppermint Bark: This classic holiday treat adds a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy buttercream filling beautifully.
Gingerbread Cookies: The spice and warmth of gingerbread harmonize with the sweet levels in your macarons, capturing the essence of the season.
Christmas Punch: A festive drink, bursting with fruity flavors, that refreshes the palate between bites of indulgent macarons.
Eggnog: The creamy, spiced beverage acts as a smooth, decadent counterpart to the delicate chewiness of the macarons, enhancing the holiday spirit.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast, adding cold creaminess alongside the soft, chewy texture of the macaron.
Fruit Salad: A bright mix of citrus and berries can provide a fresh burst of flavor that rounds out the richness of these sweet treats.
Cheese Board: A variety of cheeses, particularly soft brie or a tangy blue, can create a unique sweet and savory pairing experience.
Almond Milk: Its subtle nuttiness pairs well with the almond flavor of the macarons, enhancing the overall taste while keeping it light.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of the macarons, making this a perfect pairing for a cozy gathering.

Santa Claus Macarons with Sugar Cookie Buttercream Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness for my egg whites?
For the best results, use egg whites that are at room temperature. This allows them to whip up to stiff peaks more easily. If your egg whites are cold, you can place the eggs in a bowl of warm water for about 10–15 minutes to help them reach the desired temperature.

What’s the best way to store my Santa Claus Macarons?
Store your Santa Claus Macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will preserve their texture and flavor. Be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together!

Can I freeze Santa Claus Macarons?
Absolutely! To freeze your macarons, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours, then bring them to room temperature before serving.

What should I do if my macaron shells crack during baking?
Cracking usually occurs due to insufficient resting time before baking. Make sure to allow the piped macaron shells to dry completely until a skin forms, usually about 1–2 hours, depending on humidity. Also, double-check that your oven isn’t too hot or using a convection fan, which can cause the shells to bake unevenly.

Are these macarons safe for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, traditional macaron recipes, like these Santa Claus Macarons, use almond flour, which is not safe for those with nut allergies. However, you can try substituting almond flour with finely ground hazelnut flour or sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option. Just keep in mind that flavors and textures may vary slightly!

What can I do if my buttercream is too thick or too thin?
If your sugar cookie buttercream is too thick, gradually add a splash of milk (about 1 tablespoon at a time) until you’ve reached the perfect consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, mix in a bit more sifted powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired thickness. Adjusting these ingredients will yield a smooth, spreadable buttercream that’s perfect for piping!