Cherry Blossom Macarons

Savor the subtle notes of cherry blossom with these lovely macarons. Cherry blossom extract infuses the almond-based shells, which are then filled with a delicious blend of cherry blossom buttercream and cherry blossom jam to create a pretty and fragrant treat fit for any celebration.

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup almond flour
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large egg whites, room temperature
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cherry blossom extract
• Pink food coloring optional
• Cherry blossom petals for decoration optional
• Cherry blossom jam for filling
• Cherry blossom buttercream for filling

Instructions:

Adjust the oven temperature to 300F 150C and place parchment paper on two baking sheets

In a mixing bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and almond flour

Put aside

Beat the egg whites in a different mixing bowl until soft peaks form

Add the granulated sugar gradually while beating to create a glossy meringue with firm peaks

To the meringue, add the cherry blossom extract and a few drops of pink food coloring, if preferred

Till you have a smooth, thick batter, gently fold the almond flour and powdered sugar mixture into the meringue

Spoon the batter into a piping bag that has a round tip attached

Leaving space between each macaron, pipe tiny circles about 1

5 inches in diameter onto the baking sheets that have been prepared

After tapping the baking sheets on the counter to release any trapped air, give the macarons a good 20 to 30 minutes to rest so a skin can form

This contributes to the distinctive feet of the macaron

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the macarons have slightly risen and formed a firm shell, in a preheated oven

Take them out of the oven and leave them on the baking sheets to cool completely

Sort the macarons into pairs according to size and shape after they've cooled

Spoon a tiny bit of cherry blossom jam into the center of a macaron shell after pipering a ring of cherry blossom buttercream onto its flat side

Allowing the filling to extend to the edges, gently place one macaron shell on top of the filled one and press firmly

Not required: Place a tiny cherry blossom petal or a dusting of edible cherry blossom powder on top of each macaron to decorate it

Before serving, let the macarons ripen in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours

This facilitates the blending of flavors and the improvement of texture

Enjoy your delectable Cherry Blossom Macarons after serving them!