Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 73 min
Ingredients: 100 g Egg Whites (Use room temperature); 200 g Granulated Sugar (No substitutes for best texture); 100 g Almond Flour (Finely ground for best results); 150 g Powdered Sugar (Optional: substitute with coconut sugar for different flavor); 30 g Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed adds depth); 100 g Butter (Softened, or use non-dairy alternatives); 150 g Peanut Butter (Use creamy varieties for best results); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Optional but recommended); 1 pinch Salt (Kosher or sea salt preferred)

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As the warm aroma of fresh cookies fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia for those indulgent treats from my childhood. If you’re a fan of the iconic peanut butter and chocolate combo, you’ll be thrilled to dive into my recipe for Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons. These delightful French desserts are not only gluten-free (just swap in almond flour), but they’re also impressively simple to make! You’ll love how the airy chocolate shells cradle a creamy, salty-sweet filling that transports you straight to dessert heaven. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these macarons will leave both family and friends raving. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s get started!

Why are Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons irresistible?

Decadent Flavor Duo: Chocolate and peanut butter come together for a harmony that’s utterly addicting, reminiscent of your favorite candy.

Impressive Presentation: These macarons boast an elegant look that’s sure to WOW your guests, perfect for special occasions or upscale dessert platters.

Gluten-Free Delight: Easily adapt the recipe to be gluten-free by using almond flour, making it a versatile treat for everyone.

Quick and Fun: The preparation is straightforward—perfect for both novice and experienced bakers looking to have fun in the kitchen.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether it’s a dinner party or a cozy night in, these macarons are bound to impress both family and friends alike.

For more delightful ideas, don’t miss my Peanut Butter Cup dessert that also celebrates this fantastic flavor combination.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Macaron Ingredients

• Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delightful treats!

For the Macaron Shells
• Egg Whites – Essential for lift and lightness; use aquafaba for a vegan alternative.
• Granulated Sugar – Stabilizes the meringue while adding sweetness; no substitutes for best texture.
• Almond Flour – Creates the classic macaron texture; use finely ground gluten-free flour for allergen-friendly options.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and smoothens the shells; consider coconut sugar for a less refined flavor, but expect a texture change.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Infuses rich chocolate flavor into the shells; Dutch-processed can add depth.

For the Filling
• Butter – Adds richness to the creamy filling; substitute with non-dairy butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free treat.
• Peanut Butter – The heart of the filling; opt for creamy varieties for best results, or try almond/cashew butter for a twist.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the filling flavors; optional but highly recommended.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness; a pinch of Kosher or sea salt does wonders.

Let the magic of chocolate and peanut butter elevate your dessert experience with these fantastic Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Pans
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While it warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Ensure the parchment is flat, as this will help your chocolate peanut butter macarons bake evenly and maintain their beautiful shapes.

Step 2: Make Swiss Meringue
In a double boiler, gently combine 100g of egg whites with 200g of granulated sugar. Whisk the mixture over simmering water until it becomes frothy and the sugar is fully dissolved. Then, transfer the mixture to a stand mixer and beat on high until stiff peaks form, creating a glossy meringue that looks firm and shiny.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together 100g of almond flour, 30g of cocoa powder, and 150g of powdered sugar directly into your meringue bowl. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the meringue using a spatula until the batter flows like thick lava, smooth and shiny. This step is crucial as it prepares the structure of your chocolate peanut butter macarons.

Step 4: Pipe Shells
Transfer your macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Dot the parchment with a tiny amount of batter to help the corners stick to the baking sheets. Pipe small circles, about 1.5 inches apart, on the prepared sheets. After piping, firmly bang the sheets on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles, crucial for a perfect top.

Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the macarons for approximately 13 minutes, turning the trays halfway through for even baking. You will know they are done when they puff up slightly and form a firm outer shell. Let them cool completely on the sheets to stabilize their delicate structure before handling.

Step 6: Make Filling
While the shells are cooling, prepare your filling. In a mixing bowl, beat together 100g of softened butter and 150g of creamy peanut butter until smooth and fluffy. Gradually mix in 100g of powdered sugar along with a splash of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, ensuring a rich and tasty filling that perfectly complements your chocolate peanut butter macarons.

Step 7: Assemble Macarons
Once the macaron shells are cool, pair them up by size. Pipe a generous dollop of your peanut butter filling onto the flat side of half of the shells. Gently press the matching shells on top to create a delightful sandwich. For an extra indulgent touch, you can drizzle some melted chocolate on top before serving your chocolate peanut butter macarons.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons Variations

Feel free to let your creativity soar by customizing these macarons to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Nut Butter Twist: Swap in almond or cashew butter for a unique flavor that adds a delightful twist to the classic filling. Experiment with different nut butters to discover your favorite combination!
Mocha Macarons: Whisk in a teaspoon of espresso powder into the chocolate batter for an invigorating mocha flavor. It’s a luxurious twist that will keep coffee lovers coming back for more.
Spiced Filling: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the peanut butter filling for a surprising and warm flavor dimension. This little kick transforms the classic into something unique and exciting.
Sweetener Swap: Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a less refined option that brings a lovely caramel note to your macarons. Just keep in mind the texture might differ slightly!
Rich Chocolate Shells: Use Dutch-processed cocoa powder in place of regular cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor in the shell. This deepens the chocolate essence in every bite!
Decorative Drizzle: Elevate your presentation by drizzling melted chocolate on top of assembled macarons. It adds an elegant touch that makes them irresistible for gatherings or special occasions.
Fruity Infusion: Add a tablespoon of raspberry or strawberry puree to the filling for a fruity contrast that beautifully complements the chocolate and peanut butter. It’s like a burst of summer!

For more fun flavor inspirations, check out my tempting Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe that adds a nostalgic twist to your baking adventures!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons

Room Temperature: Store unfilled macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; avoid exposure to humidity to maintain their crisp texture.

Fridge: Place assembled macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This chilling helps enhance the flavors, making your chocolate peanut butter macarons even more delightful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled or filled macarons in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best texture experience.

Reheating: If you enjoy a warm treat, briefly microwave the macarons for 5-10 seconds to soften the filling slightly before indulging!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons

• Room Temperature Egg Whites: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature to achieve optimal volume when whipping into meringue.

• Weigh Ingredients: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements—especially for almond flour and sugar—to achieve that perfect macaron texture.

• No Moisture: Bake on a dry day! Humidity can impact the shell’s ability to set properly, leading to sticky or cracked macarons.

• Resting Time Matters: Allow your assembled chocolate peanut butter macarons to mature in the fridge for at least 24 hours for improved flavor and texture.

• Even Piping: Keep your piping consistent! The shells should be uniform in size for even baking and a beautiful presentation.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake and let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispiness. You can also make the peanut butter filling up to 3 days ahead; store it in the fridge in a sealed container—this actually enhances the flavors over time! When you’re ready to serve, just pipe the filling onto the pre-made shells, sandwich them together, and enjoy delicious macarons that taste fresh and delightful with minimal effort.

What to Serve with Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these exquisite treats with complimentary flavors and textures.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a bright, tart contrast that balances the richness of the macarons.
Coffee: A warm cup of espresso or creamy cappuccino enhances the chocolate notes while making the perfect afternoon indulgence.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream rounds out the sweet flavors and offers a delightful temperature contrast to the crisp macarons.
Hazelnut Spread Dip: For an extra dose of decadence, serve with a small bowl of hazelnut spread to dip and enjoy!
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling some rich chocolate ganache adds a luxurious touch, deepening that chocolate flavor with every bite.
Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream complements the macarons beautifully, providing a luscious element to every mouthful.
Mint Tea: A refreshing brew brightens the palate after each sweet bite, making it a lovely way to cleanse the taste buds.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or salted caramel on the side enhances the sweet-and-salty theme in the filling.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings atop your macarons for added texture and a sophisticated finish.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select egg whites for making macarons?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh egg whites at room temperature. They’re essential for achieving that light and airy texture. If you want to take it a step further, you can even separate the egg whites a day in advance and let them sit uncovered in the fridge overnight. This helps age them a bit, leading to a more stable meringue!

How should I store leftover macarons?
Very! Unfilled macarons can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, while assembled macarons will stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to keep them away from moisture to preserve their delightful crunch.

Can I freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place unfilled or filled macarons in a single layer in an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture, and you’re set for a sweet treat!

What should I do if my macaron shells turn out cracked?
Sometimes it happens! If your shells crack, it could be due to excess moisture or an over-mixed batter. Make sure your meringue reaches stiff peaks without overbeating, and that you’re piping the batter on dry days. Remember to bang the baking sheet to release air bubbles before baking; it really helps create even shells!

Are Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons safe for people with nut allergies?
Since the recipe includes peanut butter and almond flour, they are not safe for those with nut allergies. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using sunflower seed butter in the filling and a seed-based flour blend for the macaron shells. Just be cautious and check for cross-contamination if you have severe allergies!

What can I do if my macarons are too chewy?
If your macarons turn out too chewy, they might not have been baked long enough or require a bit more resting time before eating. Always remember, macarons benefit from resting—a mature macaron will have a delightful chewiness! Try letting them sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours before indulging for the best outcome.