These aren't your grandma's almond macarons! We're diving into the vibrant world of multicolored almond and meringue sandwich cookies, a delightful treat that's both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. This guide will cover everything from the perfect meringue recipe to creative color combinations and storage tips, ensuring your baking adventure is a resounding success. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these colorful confections!
What Makes These Cookies So Special?
The magic lies in the combination of crisp, delicate meringue cookies and the nutty richness of almond filling. The vibrant colors add a playful touch, making them perfect for parties, celebrations, or simply a delightful afternoon treat. Unlike traditional macarons, these cookies are easier to make, requiring less precision and specialized equipment. The customizable colors allow for endless creativity, tailoring them to any occasion or personal preference.
How to Make the Perfect Meringue Cookies
The foundation of these spectacular sandwich cookies is a perfectly whipped meringue. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients:
- 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Gel food coloring (various colors)
Instructions:
- Whip the egg whites: In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add the cream of tartar and salt.
- Gradually add sugar: Slowly add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating continuously until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Add flavoring: Gently fold in the vanilla extract.
- Divide and color: Divide the meringue into separate bowls. Add a few drops of gel food coloring to each bowl, mixing gently until evenly colored.
- Pipe onto baking sheets: Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, pipe small circles of meringue onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) for 1-1.5 hours, or until the meringues are crisp and dry. Let them cool completely on the baking sheets before handling.
What Kind of Almond Filling Should I Use?
The almond filling is equally crucial. Here are a few options:
- Classic Almond Buttercream: A simple yet delicious option, combining almond butter, powdered sugar, and butter. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference.
- French Almond Paste: This provides a richer, more intense almond flavor. It requires a bit more effort to prepare but is well worth it for its superior taste.
- Almond Frangipane: This creamy almond filling, often used in tarts, adds a sophisticated touch to these cookies.
How to Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
Once your meringue cookies and filling are ready, assembling the sandwich cookies is straightforward:
- Match cookie sizes: Pair similarly sized meringue cookies.
- Spread the filling: Generously spread a layer of your chosen almond filling onto one meringue cookie.
- Sandwich together: Carefully top with another meringue cookie to create a sandwich.
Creative Color Combinations
The beauty of these cookies lies in their customizable colors. Here are some inspiring combinations:
- Pastel Rainbow: Delicate shades of pink, blue, yellow, and green create a cheerful and elegant effect.
- Bold and Bright: Vibrant hues like red, orange, and purple make a striking statement.
- Monochromatic Magic: Different shades of a single color, like various shades of blue or pink, offer a sophisticated and cohesive look.
How to Store Multicolored Almond and Meringue Sandwich Cookies
Proper storage is key to maintaining the crispness and freshness of your cookies. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel food coloring?
While you can try, liquid food coloring often adds more moisture to the meringue, potentially affecting its texture and crispiness. Gel food coloring is generally preferred for its concentrated pigment and minimal impact on the meringue's consistency.
How long do the meringue cookies need to bake?
Baking time depends on your oven and the size of your meringue cookies. It typically ranges from 1 to 1.5 hours at 200°F (93°C). The cookies are done when they are completely dry and crisp. It's always a good idea to check for doneness after an hour.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! The meringue cookies can be baked several days in advance. Store them in an airtight container. Assemble the sandwich cookies just before serving to prevent the meringues from becoming soggy.
What are some variations I can try?
Get creative! Add chopped nuts to the filling, use different extracts for flavor, or drizzle melted chocolate over the assembled cookies. The possibilities are endless!
By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well on your way to creating stunning and delicious multicolored almond and meringue sandwich cookies. Happy baking!
