Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sweet aroma of ripe strawberries fills the air as I slice one open, revealing its juicy red center. This summer, I can’t resist whipping up a batch of Easy Strawberry Shortcake Macarons with Vanilla Buttercream. These delightful French treats combine airy, chewy meringue shells with a creamy filling that bursts with fresh strawberry goodness, making them an irresistible summer dessert. Not only are they a showstopper for any gathering, but they also offer a surprisingly simple process even for those just starting in baking. With common ingredients on hand and quick prep time, these macarons will become your go-to recipe when you’re craving something light and refreshing. Ready to bring a touch of French elegance to your kitchen? Let’s dive in! Why are Strawberry Shortcake Macarons a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor: These macarons blend fresh strawberries with creamy vanilla, creating a flavor explosion that feels like summer in every bite. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, even novice bakers can master these delightful treats effortlessly. Versatile Options: Not only are these macarons perfect with strawberries, but you can also experiment with other fruits or flavor infusions for endless variations. Try swapping strawberries for raspberries or infusing the buttercream with lemon zest! Stunning Presentation: Their pastel colors and elegant design make them the ideal dessert for impressing guests at summer parties or picnics. Quick to Prepare: With a prep time that won’t keep you in the kitchen for long, they fit perfectly into your busy summer schedule. Get ready for compliments galore when you serve these strawberry delights! And if you’re in the mood for more fruity desserts, check out these refreshing Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake or delightful Strawberry Mango Cupcakes! Strawberry Shortcake Macarons Ingredients For the Macaron Shells • Almond Flour – Provides structure and a nutty flavor; can substitute with finely ground hazelnuts for a different taste. • Confectioners Sugar – Adds sweetness and ensures a smooth texture for the shells. • Egg Whites – Essential for the meringue; ensure they are at room temperature for maximum volume. • Granulated Sugar – Stabilizes the meringue and contributes to achieving the right texture. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor in both the shells and the buttercream; swap for almond extract for a unique twist. For the Vanilla Buttercream • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and creaminess; should be at room temperature for easy whipping. • Whole Milk – Helps achieve the perfect piping consistency for buttercream; can use cream for a richer flavor. For the Filling • Strawberries – Fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness and flavor for the filling; any berry can be used for variation. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake Macarons Step 1: Prepare the Macaron Batter In a large mixing bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners sugar to ensure a fine texture. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites using an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar while increasing the mixer speed to high until the mixture holds stiff peaks, about 5-7 minutes. Gently fold the flour mixture into the meringue, adding vanilla extract for flavor, until just combined. Step 2: Pipe the Macarons Line a baking tray with parchment paper while preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles, about 1.5 inches in diameter, onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Aim for uniform shapes to ensure even baking, and tap the tray gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Step 3: Rest the Macarons Allow the piped macaron shells to rest at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes, or until they form a hard “skin” that is dry to the touch. This step is crucial for achieving that desirable macaron “foot.” You will know they’re ready when they don’t stick to your finger when gently touched, ensuring a perfect bake. Step 4: Bake the Macarons Once the macaron shells have rested, carefully place the baking tray in the preheated oven. Bake for 15–17 minutes, depending on your oven’s accuracy. Keep an eye on them, and they are done when they have risen and formed a smooth shell without any cracking. Once baked, let them cool completely on the tray before handling. Step 5: Make the Vanilla Buttercream While the macarons cool, prepare the buttercream filling. In a mixing bowl, beat room temperature unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy and light in color, about 3 minutes. Gradually mix in the confectioners sugar until fully incorporated, then add in whole milk and vanilla extract until the buttercream reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Step 6: Assemble the Macarons Once the macaron shells are completely cooled, flip half of them upside down. Pipe a generous swirl of the vanilla buttercream onto each upside-down macaron, then top with a few small pieces of fresh strawberries. Place the remaining macaron shells on top to create sandwiches, gently pressing down to secure the filling between the shells. Step 7: Serve and Store For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the filled Strawberry Shortcake Macarons for at least one hour before serving. They can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you have leftover macarons, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within a day for the best experience. What to Serve With Strawberry Shortcake Macarons? These delightful treats not only shine on their own but also pair beautifully with various dishes to create a full, memorable dining experience. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries enhances the fruity flavor, making your dessert table more vibrant. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, freshly whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess that complements the subtle sweetness of the macarons. Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and zesty, a glass of sparkling lemonade offers a perfect contrast to the sweet macarons, heightening your summer experience. Light Salad: A simple arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the dessert’s sweetness while providing a fresh, crisp bite. Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of rich chocolate drizzle brings a decadent element that elevates the overall indulgence—perfect for chocolate lovers! Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened iced tea revitalizes the palate and is a refreshing drink to serve alongside your strawberry macarons on warm days. How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Shortcake Macarons Refrigerator: Store filled Strawberry Shortcake Macarons in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Keep them chilled to maintain texture and freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the filled macarons in a single layer in an airtight container. They can last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving macarons at room temperature for extended periods, as they may become soggy from the filling, especially if not consumed within a few hours. Reheating: These macarons are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Refrain from reheating, as this may alter their delightful texture. Strawberry Shortcake Macarons Variations Feel free to put your own spin on these scrumptious macarons and discover exciting new flavors! Berry Medley: Replace strawberries with a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a colorful and tangy twist. The combination will create a delightful fruit medley that is both vibrant and refreshing! Chocolate Delight: Swap the vanilla buttercream for rich chocolate ganache to satisfy your chocolate cravings. This variation will give you a luxurious, indulgent treat perfect for chocolate lovers! Nutty Flavor: Use hazelnut flour instead of almond flour for a unique nutty flavor that beautifully complements the fresh filling. Hazelnuts bring a warm and earthy note that elevates the overall taste. Citrus Zing: Infuse your buttercream with lemon or orange zest for a bright and zesty flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the strawberries. This adds a refreshing layer you won’t want to miss! Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the buttercream for invigorating freshness. Mint and strawberries create a delightful duo that transports your taste buds to a summer garden! Spicy Kick: For adventurous souls, include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the buttercream mix. This unexpected twist gives a subtle heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the strawberries. Lavender Infusion: Add culinary-grade dried lavender to your buttercream for a floral touch that brings a sophisticated elegance to these macarons. This unique flavor will leave your guests curious and delighted! With these variations, you can cater to every palate and create a delightful spread for any summer gathering. And if you’re still looking for more fruity inspirations, don’t forget to check out the delicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake or the refreshing Strawberry Mango Cupcakes—both will surely tempt your taste buds! Make Ahead Options These Easy Strawberry Shortcake Macarons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance by baking them, allowing them to cool completely, and then storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. The vanilla buttercream can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a good stir before using. Additionally, wash and chop the strawberries a few hours before assembling to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply pipe the buttercream onto the macaron shells, add the strawberries, and sandwich them together for a delightful treat that’s just as delicious as when fresh! Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Macarons Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for maximum volume and stability when whipping into meringue. Avoid Over-Wipping: Whip the egg whites to soft peaks before adding sugar; over-whipping can lead to dryness in your meringue and macarons. Resting is Key: Don’t skip the resting step; allowing macarons to form a “skin” is essential for achieving that perfect macaron foot and texture. Single Tray Baking: Bake macarons one tray at a time to maintain an even temperature and prevent uneven baking, which helps ensure beautiful, round shells. Refrigerate Before Serving: After filling, refrigerate the Strawberry Shortcake Macarons for at least an hour to enhance flavors and prevent them from becoming soggy. Strawberry Shortcake Macarons Recipe FAQs What’s the best way to select ripe strawberries for the filling? Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, firm, and have a shiny exterior. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of mushiness, as these could mean they’re overripe. If possible, select strawberries with green, fresh-looking leaves, indicating they were recently picked. How should I store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Macarons? I often recommend storing filled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. This keeps them fresh and maintains their texture. If you prefer to store them longer, freeze them as explained below! Can I freeze filled Strawberry Shortcake Macarons? Very! To freeze, place the macaron sandwiches in a single layer inside an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This method helps preserve their flavor and texture beautifully! What should I do if my macarons crack during baking? If you notice cracking, it might be due to high oven temperature or not resting the macarons long enough before baking. Ensure your oven is set to the correct temperature (300°F is ideal) and give the piped macarons enough time to form a skin before starting the baking process. Adjusting these factors can greatly improve your outcome. Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of when making these macarons? These Strawberry Shortcake Macarons, made with almond flour, are naturally gluten-free. However, if you or your guests have nut allergies, you can try substituting the almond flour with finely ground sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative. Additionally, clarify the use of fresh strawberries if anyone has berry sensitivities! Decadent Strawberry Shortcake Macarons for Summer Bliss These Easy Strawberry Shortcake Macarons are a delightful fusion of strawberries and vanilla, perfect for summer. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 17 minutes minsResting Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 47 minutes mins Servings: 12 macaronsCourse: DessertCuisine: FrenchCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Macaron Shells1 cup Almond Flour Can substitute with finely ground hazelnuts.1 cup Confectioners Sugar Ensures a smooth texture.3 large Egg Whites At room temperature.1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Stabilizes the meringue.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Can swap for almond extract.For the Vanilla Buttercream1 cup Unsalted Butter At room temperature.2 cups Confectioners Sugar2 tablespoons Whole Milk Can use cream for richer flavor.For the Filling1 cup Strawberries Fresh, can use any berry for variation. Equipment Mixing bowlElectric MixerPiping BagBaking TrayParchment paper Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake MacaronsIn a large mixing bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners sugar. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until soft peaks form, then add granulated sugar and whip to stiff peaks. Gently fold the flour mixture into the meringue, adding vanilla extract until combined.Line a baking tray with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Transfer the batter into a piping bag and pipe small circles onto the tray, leaving space in between.Allow the piped macarons to rest at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes until they form a hard skin.Bake macarons in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, until the shells rise and are smooth. Cool completely on the tray.Beat room temperature butter until creamy, then gradually mix in confectioners sugar, followed by whole milk and vanilla extract until smooth.Once cooled, flip half of the shells upside down, pipe buttercream on each, and top with pieces of fresh strawberries. Place remaining shells on top and gently press.Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Nutrition Serving: 1macaronCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesMake sure to let egg whites reach room temperature for the best results. Skipping the resting step can affect the texture of the macarons. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!