Welcome to a delightful twist on the classic French macaron that combines the beloved flavors of Oreo cookies with the delicate texture of macarons. This recipe is perfect for those who love to impress with their baking skills while indulging in the rich, chocolatey goodness of Oreos.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of Oreo crumbs in the macaron shells and filling adds a deep chocolate flavor and a fun twist on the traditional macaron.
- Using the French meringue method ensures a smooth, shiny shell with the perfect feet, a hallmark of a well-made macaron.
- The cream cheese filling with Oreo crumbs offers a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet shells, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp Oreo cookie crumbs
- 2 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup Oreo cookie crumbs
Equipment Needed
- Food processor
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Piping bag with round tip
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone mats
- Sieve
Instructions
Prepare the Macaron Shells
Start by processing the powdered sugar, almond flour, and Oreo crumbs in a food processor until finely ground. Sift the mixture to ensure no lumps remain. In a stand mixer, whip the egg whites on medium speed until foamy, then gradually add the granulated sugar. Increase the speed to high and whip until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue in three additions, being careful not to deflate the meringue.
Pipe and Rest the Macarons
Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe 1-inch circles onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Tap the baking sheets firmly on the counter to release any air bubbles. Let the macarons rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, or until a skin forms on the surface.
Bake the Macarons
Preheat your oven to 300°F. Bake the macarons one sheet at a time for 15-18 minutes, or until the feet are well-formed and the tops are shiny and firm to the touch. Allow to cool completely on the baking sheet before attempting to remove them.
Prepare the Filling
While the macarons are cooling, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and Oreo crumbs, beating until the filling is fluffy and well combined.
Assemble the Macarons
Pair the macaron shells by size. Pipe a small amount of filling onto the flat side of one shell, then gently press another shell on top to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining shells and filling.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This is especially important for the egg whites, as they will whip up better. When folding the dry ingredients into the meringue, use a gentle hand to preserve as much air as possible. This will help ensure your macarons have the perfect rise and feet. If you’re having trouble piping uniform circles, you can draw guidelines on the underside of your parchment paper to help guide you.
Recipe Variations
- Try using different flavors of Oreos, such as mint or peanut butter, to change up the flavor profile of your macarons.
- Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha twist.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, replace 1 tbsp of the almond flour with cocoa powder.
- If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can use a buttercream or ganache filling instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my macarons crack?
Macarons can crack for a few reasons, but the most common is not letting them rest long enough before baking. The skin that forms during resting helps the macarons rise evenly in the oven. If they’re not rested enough, the rapid expansion can cause cracks. Also, make sure your oven temperature is accurate; too high heat can also lead to cracking.
Can I make these macarons without a food processor?
Yes, you can make these without a food processor, but you’ll need to ensure your almond flour and powdered sugar are very finely ground. Sifting them together multiple times can help achieve a similar texture to what the food processor would provide.
How do I store these macarons?
These macarons can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best texture, let them come to room temperature before serving. They can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Summary
These Oreo macarons are a fun and delicious twist on the classic French cookie, combining the rich flavor of Oreos with the delicate texture of macarons. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to impress with their unique flavor and beautiful appearance.