Air Fryer Macarons: Baking Perfection Or Disaster?

Macarons are notoriously difficult to bake, but can you make them in an air fryer? The answer is yes! Air fryers are similar to convection ovens but don't require preheating and have a timer. They use hot air to cook food and come in different sizes, with the most popular model being the 3.5-quart. You can use an air fryer to make a variety of dishes, from chicken wings to French fries, and even macarons!

Macaroons, not to be confused with macarons, can also be made in an air fryer. They are coconut-based cookies often dipped in chocolate and are denser and moister than macarons. With an air fryer, you can make perfect macaroons every time, no matter your skill level in the kitchen. So, whether you're whipping up a batch of French macarons or their coconut-based cousins, an air fryer can be a handy tool to have in your kitchen!

Air Fryer Macarons vs. Air Fryer Macaroons

Macaroons and macarons are two very different cookies, and while both can be made in an air fryer, there are some key differences to keep in mind.

Air Fryer Macaroons

Macaroons are coconut-based cookies, often dipped in chocolate. They are denser and moister than macarons, with a more pronounced coconut flavour. They are also simpler to make, requiring fewer ingredients and less technical skill. To make them in an air fryer, you'll need:

• Unsweetened coconut flakes
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Mini chocolate chips (optional)
• Cooking spray or parchment paper

The coconut flakes and condensed milk are combined in a large bowl, then shaped into cookies and placed in the air fryer basket lined with parchment paper. They cook at 350°F for 7-9 minutes, and the chocolate is drizzled on top.

Air Fryer Macarons

Macarons, on the other hand, are made with almond flour and egg whites, resulting in a crispy, light, and chewy cookie. They are more temperamental to make, requiring precise measurements and a good deal of technique. A basic recipe for air fryer macarons includes:

• Egg whites
• Granulated sugar
• Powdered sugar
• Almond flour

The full process for making macarons in an air fryer is not provided in the sources, but it likely involves creating a meringue with the egg whites and sugar, folding in the dry ingredients, piping the batter, and then baking in the air fryer. The temperature and time will depend on your specific air fryer, but one source mentions baking at 140°C for 20 minutes.

Both macarons and macaroons can be made in an air fryer, but macaroons are generally easier to make and less finicky. Macarons require more precise measurements and technique, but both cookies can be successfully baked in an air fryer with the right approach.

How to Make Macarons in an Air Fryer

Macarons are delicate, lopsided, and finicky cookies that can be tricky to bake. However, with the right recipe and some practice, you can make perfect macarons in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve macaron success!

Ingredients:

• 40g Egg Whites
• 40g Granulated Sugar
• 13g Powdered Sugar
• 44g Almond Flour
• Food Colouring (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Whites

Let the egg whites sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours to "age" them. This step is optional, but it can help create a stiffer meringue. If you don't have time, simply set the eggs in warm water for 5-10 minutes to bring them to room temperature.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift and combine the almond flour and powdered sugar. Sifting ensures a smooth mixture and removes any lumps that could cause bumpy tops on your macarons.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites

Add cream of tartar and granulated sugar to the egg whites and whip until you achieve a stiff, glossy mixture. The cream of tartar helps stabilize and strengthen the egg whites. If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with lemon juice or white vinegar.

Step 4: Add Food Colouring (Optional)

If you want colourful macarons, add a few drops of gel food colouring to the egg white mixture. The colour tends to fade during baking, so add a shade or two darker than your desired shade.

Step 5: Fold in the Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the almond flour mixture into the egg whites with a rubber spatula. This step requires practice to get right. Under-mixing will result in lumpy and cracked macarons, while over-mixing will deflate the egg whites and make them flat. Aim for 65-75 turns of your spatula when folding.

Step 6: Pipe and Rest the Batter

Transfer the batter to a pastry bag and pipe 1-inch rounds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Tap the pan hard 2-3 times to release air bubbles and prevent cracks. Let the piped batter rest for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour. This step is crucial for developing the "feet" of the macarons.

Step 7: Bake the Macarons

Preheat your air fryer to 300°F. Place the macarons in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Bake at 300°F for 13-20 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid overbaking. The baking time may vary depending on your air fryer, so adjust accordingly.

Step 8: Cool and Assemble

Once the macarons are baked, let them cool completely. Prepare your desired filling, such as buttercream, lemon curd, caramel, or chocolate ganache. Pipe or spread the filling onto the flat side of a macaron and top it with another macaron to create a sandwich.

Storage:

Macarons are best eaten fresh, but if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving.

Air Fryer Macarons Recipe

Ingredients:

• 40g Egg Whites
• 40g Granulated Sugar
• 13g Powdered Sugar
• 44g Almond Flour
• 44g Powdered Sugar
• Food Colouring (optional)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 140C.
• In a bowl, mix the egg whites with the granulated sugar and powdered sugar until you achieve a stiff, glossy mixture.
• If desired, add food colouring to the mixture – the colour will likely fade during baking, so add a shade or two darker than your desired shade.
• In a separate bowl, sift and mix the almond flour and remaining powdered sugar.
• Gently fold the almond flour mixture into the egg white mixture with a rubber spatula. Be careful not to over-mix or under-mix the batter, as this can cause the macarons to become flat or lumpy. Aim for around 65-75 turns of your spatula.
• Transfer the batter to a pastry bag and pipe out 1-inch rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Tap the pan hard 2-3 times to release any air bubbles and prevent cracks on the macarons' tops.
• Allow the piped batter to rest for at least 20 minutes before placing in the air fryer. The batter should become slightly tacky to the touch, which will help the macarons develop their signature "feet".
• Place the macarons in the air fryer and bake at 140C for 20 minutes.
• Once baked, remove the macarons from the air fryer and allow them to cool.
• Fill the macarons with your desired filling, such as buttercream, lemon curd, caramel, or chocolate ganache.
• Enjoy your freshly made air fryer macarons!

Tips:

• It is important to use room-temperature eggs, as they will be easier to whip to a nice volume. If you forget to take your eggs out of the fridge, simply place them in warm water for 5-10 minutes to bring them to room temperature.
• Be generous with the food colouring, as the colour tends to fade during baking.
• If you want to be precise with the sizing of your macarons, trace a quarter with a pencil onto the parchment paper, then flip the paper over and use the lines as your guide when piping.
• If you are making a buttercream filling, use room-temperature raspberries to prevent your buttercream from separating. Fresh raspberries straight out of the fridge will cause the butter to seize up.

Air Fryer Macaroon Cookies

Macaroons are coconut-based cookies often dipped in chocolate. They are denser and moister than macarons and have a more pronounced coconut flavor. You can make them in an air fryer, which means they take less than 10 minutes to bake. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to make Air Fryer Macaroon Cookies.

Ingredients:

• Unsweetened Coconut Flakes
• Sweetened Condensed Milk
• Mini Chocolate Chips
• Olive Oil or Cooking Spray
• Parchment Paper

Method:

• In a large bowl, combine the unsweetened coconut flakes and sweetened condensed milk. Mix until well blended.
• Line your air fryer basket with cookie parchment paper.
• Add about two teaspoons of batter on top, leaving space around the cookies.
• Set the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 7 to 9 minutes.
• Melt the chocolate in the microwave, following the package's instructions, and drizzle over the cooked macaroons.
• For best results, leave space around the cookies so they can cook perfectly.
• Depending on the air fryer you are using, you may need to flip the cookies halfway during the cooking process.
• If using an air fryer oven, place the shelf on the bottom level to ensure even cooking.

Storage:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 4 to 5 days. If left much longer than that, they will become stale. You can also freeze them if not eaten. Let the macaroons cool to room temperature, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and put them in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 1-2 months.

Air Fryer Macaroons Baking Tips

Air fryers are a great alternative to baking macaroons in an oven. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfect macaroons using an air fryer:

Prepare Your Air Fryer Basket

Before you start making your macaroon mixture, line your air fryer basket with foil or cookie parchment paper. Leave a 1" overhang on two opposite sides of the foil to help you remove the macaroons from the basket after cooking. If you are using parchment paper, ensure it is suitable for cookies, as parchment paper with holes may cause the batter to fall through. Lightly coat the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Prepare Your Macaroon Mixture

In a medium or large bowl, combine your macaroon ingredients. Most recipes call for a combination of egg whites, a sweetener such as honey or sugar, and shredded coconut. You can also add other ingredients like chocolate chips or food colouring. Mix the ingredients until well blended.

Shape Your Macaroons

Use a tablespoon or a piping bag to shape your macaroons. If using a tablespoon, tightly pack the mixture into the spoon and carefully arrange mounds of batter in your prepared basket, spacing them about 1/4" apart. If using a piping bag, pipe out 1-inch rounds onto the prepared baking sheet. Tap the pan hard at least 2-3 times to release the air bubbles and prevent the tops of your macaroons from cracking.

Cook Your Macaroons

Set your air fryer to the recommended temperature, usually between 320°F and 350°F. Cook your macaroons for 7 to 9 minutes, or until they are set on top and light golden in colour. Depending on your air fryer, you may need to flip the macaroons halfway through the cooking process. Use the foil overhang to carefully remove the macaroons from the air fryer and let them cool.

Add Chocolate (Optional)

If you want to add a chocolate coating to your macaroons, melt some chocolate chips in the microwave according to the package instructions. Dip the flat side of the macaroons into the melted chocolate and transfer them to a plate or baking sheet. Refrigerate until the chocolate is set, about 20 minutes.

Storage

Macaroons can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you plan to freeze them, let them cool to room temperature, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen macaroons to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they will last for about 1 to 2 months.

Frequently asked questions