Macaron Towers in Valentine Colors

Name: Macaron Towers in Valentine Colors
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups powdered sugar; 1 cup almond flour; 4 large egg whites, aged; ¼ cup granulated sugar; Food coloring (red, pink, white); 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Flavoring (raspberry, pistachio, etc.)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore creating these Macaron Towers in vibrant Valentine colors! Each delicate layer is filled with luscious ganache or buttercream, making these treats not only beautiful but also irresistible. As I experiment with different fillings and colors, I find that the combinations make my heart skip a beat. Whether I'm celebrating love or simply expressing my creativity, these macarons always bring a delightful touch to any occasion, and I can’t wait to share the joy of making them with you!

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:58:10.950Z

Making Macaron Towers is one of my favorite ways to celebrate special occasions with friends and family. During my first attempt, I was amazed at how vibrant the colors of the shells could be and how they made the whole setup look festive. It's essential to age the egg whites a day in advance for better structure, which was a game changer for me.

Each layer of this tower allows for creativity, and I love experimenting with flavors like raspberry and pistachio. The trick to getting them perfectly round and smooth is to use a piping bag with a round tip. I can assure you the effort is well worth it when you see the smiles of your loved ones!

        Why You'll Love These Macarons
        Stunning visual appeal with vibrant colors
Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile flavors to suit every palate

      

Mastering the Macaron Shells

Creating the perfect macaron shell starts with accurate measurements. Using a kitchen scale ensures that your powdered sugar and almond flour are precisely measured, leading to a better texture. Don't skip the aging process for the egg whites; letting them sit for a day or two allows the moisture to evaporate, which is crucial for achieving that iconic shiny surface and chewy interior. The proper hydration of your batter should yield a consistency that flows easily off the spatula but holds a peak.

When folding the dry ingredients into the egg whites, be gentle to maintain the air you've whipped into the eggs. Overmixing can lead to flat macarons that won't rise properly. Ideally, the batter should flow like lava when lifted with a spatula. One of my tips is to use a silicone spatula for precise folding. It helps eliminate lumps without deflating the mixture too much.

Choosing the Perfect Filling

The filling of your macarons is just as important as the shells. A good buttercream or ganache enhances the flavor and adds moisture. For raspberry flavoring, I recommend using fresh puree for a vibrant taste, while pistachio paste can infuse a rich nuttiness. Remember to adjust the sugar in your filling accordingly if you're adding a flavored puree, as it can alter sweetness levels. It’s crucial to taste your filling before assembling to ensure a balanced flavor.

If you're short on time, pre-made fillings like fruit preserves or high-quality chocolate ganache can save the day without sacrificing taste. Get creative! Consider adding a pinch of sea salt to your buttercream for a sweet-salty contrast that’ll elevate the flavor profile. Just ensure whatever filling you choose complements the macaron shell flavors to avoid clash.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need for a successful macaron tower!

Macaron Shells

1 ¾ cups powdered sugar
1 cup almond flour
4 large egg whites, aged
¼ cup granulated sugar
Food coloring (red, pink, white)

Filling

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Flavoring (raspberry, pistachio, etc.)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for perfect macarons!

Prepare the Macaron Batter

In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar and almond flour, then sift. In another bowl, whisk the aged egg whites until foamy, gradually adding granulated sugar until glossy peaks form. Fold in dry ingredients gently and add food coloring, mixing until fully incorporated.

Pipe and Bake

Transfer the batter to a piping bag and pipe small rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Tap the baking sheet to remove air bubbles, and let them sit for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 300°F and bake for 12-15 minutes. Allow them to cool completely.

Prepare the Filling

Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Add your chosen flavoring and mix thoroughly.

Assemble the Towers

Pair up macaron shells, and pipe your filling onto half of them. Sandwich them with the other shells. Use a decorative stand to create a tower effect, layering the assembled macarons.

Enjoy your stunning macaron tower!

Pro Tips

For best results, make sure all utensils are clean and dry. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the macarons light and airy.

Storage Tips

Once assembled, macaron towers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, for the best texture, consume them within 2-3 days. If you need to make them ahead of time, consider storing the shells separately from the filling. In the freezer, unfilled shells can last for up to a month, while the filling should be stored in the fridge or freezer depending on the type.

For freezing, place unfilled shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them come to room temperature before assembling. This method retains their delicate crispness and prevents any sogginess.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your macarons crack on top, it's often a sign of high humidity or that your oven temperature is too high. Aim for a steady temperature around 300°F, and consider using an oven thermometer to check accuracy. If you live in a humid climate, using a dehumidifier can create a better environment for macarons to bake. Make sure to allow enough time for the macarons to rest before baking, as this helps form the crucial ‘foot’ at the base.

Another common issue is hollow macarons, which typically arises from overmixing the batter or inadequate whipping of the egg whites. If you find your macarons hollow, adjust your mixing technique; be sure to check that your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks, but still retain some sheen. If you plan on experimenting with different flavors, you might need to adjust the ratios of almond flour to powdered sugar to compensate for additional moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use liquid food coloring?

Yes, but use it sparingly to avoid affecting the macaron batter consistency.

→ How do I know if my macarons are done baking?

They should have a smooth surface and a slight lift at the base. They should not be wobbly.

→ Why do my macarons crack on top?

Cracking can be caused by overmixing the batter or baking at too high a temperature.

→ How should I store leftover macarons?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.