Cherry Blossom Macaroon

Delicate and lovely pastries with a hint of cherry blossom flavor are called Cherry Blossom Macarons. These are the ideal dessert for springtime or special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond flour
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 large egg whites, room temperature
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cherry blossom extract
• Pink food coloring optional
• Cherry blossom petals for garnish optional

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 300F 150C

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper

In a food processor, pulse almond flour and powdered sugar together until well combined

Sift the mixture into a large mixing bowl and discard any larger almond pieces

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy

Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat

Beat until stiff peaks form

Gently fold the almond flour mixture into the egg white mixture, being careful not to overmix

If desired, add a few drops of pink food coloring and cherry blossom extract, and gently fold until the batter is smooth and slightly runny

Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip

Pipe small rounds onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one

Tap the baking sheet on the counter a few times to remove any air bubbles, and let the macarons sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes until they form a skin

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the macarons have formed a firm shell and do not stick to your finger when touched

Remove from the oven and allow the macarons to cool completely on the baking sheet

Once cooled, gently remove them from the parchment paper and sandwich them together with cherry blossom ganache or your preferred filling

If desired, garnish with cherry blossom petals for an elegant touch

Enjoy your homemade Cherry Blossom Macarons!