Vanilla Bean Macarons Recipe with Smooth Creamy Filling

Name: Vanilla Bean Macarons
Prep time: 1 h 40 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 1 h 58 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 100 grams egg whites; 100 grams granulated sugar; 105 grams almond flour; 105 grams powdered sugar; 5 grams cornstarch; Seeds from 1/2 vanilla bean pod; Food coloring if desired; 180 milliliters milk; 24 grams granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 egg yolk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar; 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons milk

By:

Magnolia Belle

Published:

September 6, 2025

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Bean Macarons

Vanilla bean macarons are a delightful treat that combines elegance and simplicity, making them perfect for anyone eager to try baking at home. These delicate cookies offer a light, airy texture with a rich vanilla flavor that comes from real vanilla beans, appealing to baking enthusiasts and beginners alike. You’ll appreciate how this recipe brings a touch of sophistication to your kitchen without requiring advanced skills.

One reason these vanilla bean macarons stand out is their ease of preparation. The steps are straightforward, allowing you to create these tasty delights in just a short time, ideal for busy parents or working professionals looking for a quick yet impressive dessert. Plus, the health benefits add to their charm, as they use almond flour for a source of healthy fats and protein, making them a lighter option compared to heavier sweets.

Beyond that, the versatility of vanilla bean macarons makes them adaptable to various needs. You can easily modify the recipe for dietary preferences, such as gluten-free or vegan versions, while keeping that distinctive flavor intact. The natural essence of vanilla beans gives these macarons a unique taste that enhances any gathering, from family dinners to special celebrations, connecting with food enthusiasts and newlyweds who want something memorable.

Health and Flavor Highlights

Let’s talk more about why these macarons are so appealing. They provide fewer calories and fats than traditional desserts, supporting wellness for diet-conscious individuals. The aromatic vanilla bean adds a sophisticated touch that makes every bite special, turning simple ingredients into pure joy. Whether you’re a student baking for fun or a senior enjoying treats, this recipe promises smiles and lasting memories.

In addition, the smooth creamy filling elevates the experience, pairing perfectly with the crunchy shell. For those searching for a no-churn ice cream recipe to complement these macarons, it’s a great way to expand your dessert options. Overall, this vanilla bean macarons recipe is one you’ll return to time and again for its balance of taste and ease.

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Bean Macarons
Health and Flavor Highlights
Essential Ingredients for Vanilla Bean Macarons
Tips for Selecting Quality Ingredients
How to Prepare the Perfect Vanilla Bean Macarons: Step-by-Step Guide
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Vanilla Bean Macarons
Mastering Vanilla Bean Macarons: Advanced Tips and Variations
Fun Variations to Try
How to Store Vanilla Bean Macarons: Best Practices
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Vanilla Bean Macarons
How do you make the perfect vanilla bean macaron shells?
What type of vanilla bean is best for macarons?
Can I store vanilla bean macarons, and how long do they last?
What is the best filling for vanilla bean macarons?
How can I prevent my vanilla bean macarons from cracking or hollowing out?
Vanilla Bean Macarons
Ingredients
Instructions
Last Step:
Notes
Nutrition
Did you make this recipe?

Essential Ingredients for Vanilla Bean Macarons

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making perfect vanilla bean macarons. This section lists everything you need for the macaron shells, custard, and buttercream, ensuring your baking goes smoothly. By using precise measurements, you’ll achieve that signature light texture and creamy filling every home cook dreams of.

Start with the ingredients for the macaron shells, which form the base of your treats. Below is a complete structured list based on the recipe details to make preparation easy and accurate.

100 grams egg whites
100 grams granulated sugar
105 grams almond flour
105 grams powdered sugar
5 grams cornstarch
Seeds from 1/2 vanilla bean pod
Food coloring if desired

Next, for the vanilla bean custard that adds a smooth layer to your macarons, here’s the full list of ingredients:

Seeds from 1/2 vanilla bean pod
180 milliliters milk
24 grams granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Finally, the vanilla bean buttercream provides that creamy filling everyone loves. Don’t skip any item for the best results:

1 1/2 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar
4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter
Seeds from 1/2 vanilla bean pod
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk

Tips for Selecting Quality Ingredients

When shopping, choose fresh vanilla beans for the best flavor, as they make all the difference in your macarons. Almond flour should be finely ground to ensure a smooth batter, helping travelers or busy parents stock up easily. This structured approach keeps things simple and organized for baking enthusiasts.

Ingredient Category	Purpose in Recipe
Macaron Shells	Creates the base structure and texture
Vanilla Bean Custard	Provides a creamy, flavorful filling
Vanilla Bean Buttercream	Enhances the smooth, sweet taste

For special dietary options, you can swap egg whites with aquafaba for vegan macarons, keeping them gluten-free with almond flour. This makes the recipe accessible for everyone from seniors to celebration planners.

How to Prepare the Perfect Vanilla Bean Macarons: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating vanilla bean macarons might seem tricky, but with this guide, you’ll master it in no time. We’ll walk through each step to help you achieve those beautiful, shiny shells and a smooth creamy filling. Follow along for tips that make the process fun and rewarding for home cooks.

First, prepare your ingredients by sifting almond flour, powdered sugar, and cornstarch together to remove lumps. This ensures a silky batter, setting the stage for the meringue. Whip egg whites until foamy, then gradually add granulated sugar while beating until stiff peaks form, incorporating the seeds from 1/2 vanilla bean pod for that authentic flavor.

Next, gently fold the dry mixture into the meringue using a spatula. This macaronage technique is crucial mix until the batter flows smoothly. If you add food coloring, do it now for vibrant results. Pipe the batter onto a lined baking tray in even circles, then tap the tray to release air bubbles and let it rest for 30-60 minutes until a skin forms.

Bake the macarons in a preheated oven at 300°F for 15-20 minutes, rotating the tray halfway through. Once cooled, it’s time for the filling. Prepare the vanilla bean custard by heating milk with vanilla bean seeds, then mix in sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolk until thickened. For the buttercream, beat softened butter with confectioners’ sugar, vanilla bean seeds, vanilla extract, and milk until creamy. Assemble by sandwiching the filling between shells.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One thing to watch is overmixing the batter, which can lead to flat macarons aim for a lava-like flow. Always use a clean bowl for whipping egg whites to get those firm peaks. For bakers new to this, practice makes perfect, and soon you’ll have macarons that wow your friends.

Remember, the key to a great vanilla bean macarons recipe is patience during resting and baking. If you’re looking for more dessert ideas, check out this no-churn ice cream recipe to pair with your macarons. With these steps, even students or working professionals can create something special.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Vanilla Bean Macarons

Making vanilla bean macarons your own is easy with a few tweaks. Whether you’re vegan or watching your calories, these changes keep the recipe delicious and adaptable. Let’s explore options that suit different lifestyles without losing that creamy macaron filling charm.

For protein alternatives, replace egg whites with aquafaba to keep things vegan-friendly. You can also swap almond flour for hazelnut or cashew flour to change the nutty taste subtly. These adjustments work well for food enthusiasts exploring new flavors.

When it comes to vegetable and seasoning mods, try adding fruit purees to the filling for a fresh twist. Use natural extracts like rose instead of vanilla for variety, making it perfect for seasonal baking. This flexibility helps busy parents or dietary-conscious folks enjoy macarons tailored to their needs.

Mastering Vanilla Bean Macarons: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics of vanilla bean macarons, dive into advanced techniques to elevate your baking. These tips will help you refine your skills and create variations that impress. From flavor tweaks to presentation, let’s make your macarons stand out.

Use a food processor to blend dry ingredients evenly, ensuring no lumps in your batter. Tapping the tray helps release air bubbles, and controlling humidity can improve the shell’s texture for that perfect foot. Experiment with infusions like citrus zest or matcha in the filling to complement the vanilla bean’s aroma.

For presentation, pipe macarons in different sizes and add edible decorations for visual appeal. You can bake shells ahead and store them, then assemble with fresh filling right before serving. This is handy for celebration planners hosting events, saving time while keeping flavors fresh.

Fun Variations to Try

Try adding coffee to the buttercream for a mocha twist, appealing to working professionals needing a pick-me-up. These ideas make the macaron recipe versatile for all occasions, from holidays to everyday treats.

How to Store Vanilla Bean Macarons: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your vanilla bean macarons tasting great longer, so let’s cover the essentials. Follow these steps to maintain their texture and flavor, whether you’re prepping for a week or longer. This is especially useful for bakers who like to plan ahead.

Store macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. For freezing, place unfilled shells in a single layer and keep them for up to one month thaw at room temperature before adding filling. Avoid reheating to preserve the delicate structure, and always serve at room temperature for the best taste.

Meal prep tip: Make shells and fillings separately to assemble fresh, which helps with batch cooking for families or events. This method ensures your macarons remain crisp and flavorful, perfect for seniors or travelers on the go.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Vanilla Bean Macarons

How do you make the perfect vanilla bean macaron shells?

To make perfect vanilla bean macaron shells, start by sifting together almond flour and powdered sugar to remove lumps. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold in granulated sugar and scraped vanilla bean seeds. Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the meringue until the batter flows slowly off the spatula. Pipe onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, tap to release air bubbles, and let rest for 30–60 minutes until a skin forms. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 15–18 minutes. The result should be smooth, shiny shells with risen “feet” and no cracks.

What type of vanilla bean is best for macarons?

Bourbon vanilla beans are the most popular choice for macarons due to their rich, creamy flavor and fragrant aroma. They impart a warm vanilla taste that pairs well with delicate macaron shells. Madagascar Bourbon beans are widely used, but Tahitian vanilla beans offer a more floral, fruity note if you want a unique twist. Always use fresh, plump beans to maximize the infusion of natural vanilla seeds into your filling and shells.

Can I store vanilla bean macarons, and how long do they last?

Yes, vanilla bean macarons can be stored both before and after filling. Unfilled shells should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or frozen for up to one month. Once filled, macarons are best refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days to maintain freshness and allow the flavors to meld. Bring them to room temperature before serving for optimal texture and taste.

What is the best filling for vanilla bean macarons?

Classic vanilla bean buttercream or white chocolate ganache are excellent fillings for vanilla bean macarons, complementing the delicate shell with creamy, smooth flavors. For a simple buttercream, blend softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla bean seeds, and a splash of cream. White chocolate ganache can be made by melting chocolate with cream and incorporating vanilla seeds. Both options highlight the vanilla flavor without overpowering the macaron’s texture.

How can I prevent my vanilla bean macarons from cracking or hollowing out?

To avoid cracking or hollow shells, ensure your batter is properly mixed—overmixing causes flat shells while undermixing leads to cracks. Let the piped shells rest until a dry skin forms, which prevents cracks during baking. Bake at a consistent low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) and avoid opening the oven door mid-bake. Humidity can also impact results; bake on a dry day or use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture. Properly following these steps will reduce hollowing and cracking significantly.

Vanilla Bean Macarons Recipe with Smooth Creamy Filling