1-Prepare Your Workspace: First, measure all ingredients accurately and sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together to remove any lumps. This step ensures your macaron shells come out smooth and even.

2-Making the Macaron Shells: Next, whisk 100 grams granulated sugar and 4 grams egg white powder (if you’re using it) over simmering water until the sugar melts and the mixture gets frothy. Add 100 grams egg whites and whisk until combined, then transfer to a stand mixer and whip on increasing speed until stiff peaks form.

Gently fold the sifted powdered sugar and almond flour into the meringue, and add pink food coloring as desired. Fold the batter until it flows slowly off a spatula and passes the teaspoon test it should spread slightly without going too far.

Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. Pipe hearts following a template by applying more pressure on wider parts and less on thin parts, doing one heart at a time. Use a toothpick to smooth and shape the edges right away to form pointy indentations and pop air bubbles.

3-Baking the Shells: Tap the trays against the counter to release any extra air bubbles, then let the macarons dry for 20 to 40 minutes until they’re dry to the touch. Preheat your oven to 300ºF or 325ºF based on what works best for you, and bake for about 9 minutes, rotating the trays halfway for even baking.

Quickly place 2 pieces of clear hard candy in the center of each heart shell and bake for another 4 to 5 minutes until the candy melts to form the shaker window. Let the shells cool completely before you handle them.

4-Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting: Now for the frosting! Sift 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar (191 grams). Beat 4 tablespoons cream cheese and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add the sifted powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; mix on low speed until combined, then increase speed and beat for another minute until it’s creamy and fluffy. If it’s too stiff, add 1/2 to 1 tablespoon milk gradually, or add more powdered sugar if it’s too runny.

5-Assembling Your Macarons: Finally, pipe the cream cheese frosting around the edges of one heart shell, fill the center with sprinkles, and top with another heart shell, pressing gently to make a sandwich. For more ideas on fun desserts, check out our no-churn ice cream recipe to pair with these treats.