Name: Snickerdoodle Macarons: A Cozy Twist on a Classic Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 78 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Use confectioners' sugar for best results.); 1 cup Almond Flour (Finely ground for better texture.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust for desired flavor.); 3 large Egg Whites (Use fresh, room-temperature for best results.); 1/4 teaspoon Cream of Tartar (To stabilize meringue.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Richness can be replaced with margarine for vegan.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Use same type as for shells.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure for best flavor.); 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream (Non-dairy milk can be an alternative.)

The moment I tasted Snickerdoodle Macarons, my senses were ignited with warmth and nostalgia, like a cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of cinnamon sugar on a chilly afternoon. These delightful treats marry the airy elegance of French macarons with the comforting flavors of classic American snickerdoodles, creating an irresistible fusion. With a soft, chewy interior and a crisp outer shell, they shine as the perfect centerpiece for any gathering or a sweet pick-me-up during a quiet moment at home. Plus, their simple preparation makes them a delight for bakers of all skill levels, and you can easily customize the filling to suit your cravings. Intrigued? Let’s dive into the process of creating these cozy cinnamon delights!

Why are Snickerdoodle Macarons special?

Comforting flavors: The combination of classic snickerdoodles and fancy macarons brings a heartwarming twist to traditional treats.
Easy preparation: With simple steps, baking these delightful goodies is accessible to everyone, whether you’re an expert chef or a beginner.
Customizable filling: Personalize your macarons by experimenting with different buttercream flavors, catering to your taste preferences. Check out our guide on buttercream variations for ideas!
Crowd-pleasing treat: Perfect for parties or cozy gatherings, they’re sure to impress friends and family with their unique fusion of textures and tastes.
A touch of elegance: The delicate presentation will make any occasion feel special, whether it’s a holiday feast or an afternoon snack. These macarons are your new go-to dessert!

Snickerdoodle Macaron Ingredients

• To create these delightful treats, gather the right ingredients for the best Snickerdoodle Macarons experience!

For the Shells

Powdered Sugar – This sweetens the macaron shells and gives them a silky texture; using confectioners’ sugar is key for success.
Almond Flour – It provides that signature chewy texture that macarons are known for; finely ground almond meal works well if you need a substitute.
Ground Cinnamon – This ingredient brings the delightful flavor of snickerdoodles to your macarons; feel free to adjust the amount for an extra kick!
Egg Whites – Essential for creating a stable meringue, fresh room-temperature egg whites will yield the best results.
Cream of Tartar – It helps stabilize the meringue; in a pinch, you can use vinegar as a substitute.

For the Buttercream Filling

Unsalted Butter – This adds richness to the filling; swap it for dairy-free margarine if you’re making a vegan version.
Powdered Sugar – Used to sweeten and create a smooth consistency in the buttercream; be sure to use the same type as for the shells.
Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the snickerdoodle flavor in the buttercream; adjust according to your taste.
Vanilla Extract – A splash of pure vanilla elevates the overall flavor of the filling and complements the cookies beautifully.
Heavy Cream – This gives the buttercream a creamy texture; for a lighter option, consider substituting with non-dairy milk.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to embark on a baking adventure that combines the elegance of French pastries with the beloved flavors of American classic cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Snickerdoodle Macarons

Step 1: Prep Dry Ingredients
Begin by sifting together powdered sugar, almond flour, and ground cinnamon in a food processor. This process will ensure your mixture is super fine and free of lumps, setting the stage for smooth Snickerdoodle Macarons. Aim for a light, airy texture, and set your dry ingredients aside while you prepare the egg whites.

Step 2: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean, dry bowl, add your room temperature egg whites and cream of tartar. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, whip the egg whites on medium speed until they reach soft peaks, then increase to high speed until stiff peaks form, around 5-7 minutes. The mixture should be glossy and hold its shape, making it perfect for folding in with your dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the sifted dry mixture into the whipped egg whites using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; the goal is to achieve a smooth batter that flows in thick ribbons, about 50 strokes. This step is crucial for your Snickerdoodle Macarons to develop that characteristic texture. Set the batter aside once well combined.

Step 4: Pipe Macarons
Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. On lined baking sheets, pipe small circles, about 1.5 inches in diameter, ensuring to leave adequate space between each. This helps them rise without sticking together. Once piped, tap the baking sheet gently on the counter to release any air bubbles, making for a perfect shell.

Step 5: Rest Shells
Allow the piped macaron shells to rest for 20-40 minutes at room temperature. You’ll know they’re ready when a skin forms on top and they’re no longer tacky to the touch. This step is essential for the macarons to develop “feet” as they bake, resulting in the perfect Snickerdoodle Macaron texture.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the rested macarons inside. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are crisp and the edges feel firm. Be careful not to open the oven during baking, as sudden temperature changes can affect their rising. Your Snickerdoodle Macarons should come out with a beautiful shine once baked!

Step 7: Prepare Buttercream Filling
While your macarons cool, make the cinnamon buttercream filling. In a mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter, powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This creamy mixture should have a smooth consistency, perfect for piping between your macaron shells.

Step 8: Assemble Macarons
Once the macarons are completely cooled, pair similar-sized shells together. Pipe a generous dollop of buttercream on the flat side of one shell and sandwich it with its matching pair, gently pressing together. Repeat this process for the rest of your Snickerdoodle Macarons, ensuring they have a rich filling.

Step 9: Optional Finish
For an extra touch of flavor and crunch, roll the edges of your assembled macarons in a cinnamon-sugar mixture. This optional step will enhance the snickerdoodle experience, adding delightful sweetness and texture to your cozy treats.

Step 10: Store
Lastly, refrigerate the assembled Snickerdoodle Macarons for at least 24 hours before serving. This resting period will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a truly delightful treat for any occasion. Store any uneaten macarons in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.

Expert Tips for Snickerdoodle Macarons

Proper Egg Whites: Use fresh, room-temperature egg whites for maximum volume. Cold egg whites won’t whip as well, affecting your macaron’s texture.

Mixing Technique: Be careful not to overmix the batter after folding the dry ingredients. Aim for a consistency that flows like thick ribbons to avoid deflated Snickerdoodle Macarons.

Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step! Allow piped macaron shells to sit until a skin forms, ensuring they develop “feet” during baking and achieve that desirable crisp texture.

Baking Temp Check: Keep an eye on oven temperature; too hot can cause cracking, while too cool might not allow proper rising. An accurate oven thermometer can be your best friend!

Using Almond Flour: Use finely ground almond flour to achieve smooth macaron shells. Coarser almond meal can lead to grainy textures, so sift before using if unsure!

What to Serve with Snickerdoodle Macarons

These delicate treats perfectly complement a warm beverage or a refreshing fruit salad, transforming your sweet moment into a delightful experience.

Spiced Chai: The warming spices in chai beautifully enhance the cinnamon notes in your macaron, making for a cozy pair. Sip by the fire for a truly comforting treat.
Vanilla Latte: A velvety vanilla latte balances sweetness while the coffee undertones elevate the rich flavors of the macarons, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Fruit Salad: A bright fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the macaron. Seasonal fruits add bursts of color and flavor to your dessert table.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle onto your macarons for a touch of indulgence. Dark chocolate pairs well with cinnamon, creating a delightful and rich flavor fusion.
Cinnamon Ice Cream: Enhancing the classic flavor of snickerdoodles, a scoop of cinnamon or vanilla ice cream brings a creamy chill to your dessert. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra kick!
Coffee or Espresso: The bold, rich profile of coffee or espresso elevates the macaron experience, highlighting the nuances of cinnamon and vanilla in every bite.
Sparkling Cider: A crisp, bubbly sparkling cider refreshes the palate and adds a celebratory feel—ideal for festive gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Mini Fruit Tarts: These fruity treats add beautiful color and contrast in texture to your macaron spread, inviting guests to savor a variety of flavors together.
Warm Apple Pie: Pair with a small slice of warm apple pie for a delightful mix of textures and comforting spices, making it a nostalgic dessert duo.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a touch of caramel sauce over your macaron not only enhances its sweetness but also introduces a lovely, buttery richness that makes each bite even more decadent.

Make Ahead Options

These Snickerdoodle Macarons are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while still enjoying a delightful treat! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake and cool the shells, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For the filling, whip up the cinnamon buttercream up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to assemble, simply pipe the chilled buttercream between the shells and let the assembled macarons rest in the fridge for optimal flavor melding. This way, you’ll have gorgeous, delicious Snickerdoodle Macarons with minimal effort on the day you want to serve them!

Snickerdoodle Macarons Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to sprinkle some creativity into your baking by customizing your Snickerdoodle Macarons with these delicious variations!

Nutty Twist: Substitute almond flour with ground hazelnuts for a delightful and rich nutty flavor.
Maple Buttercream: Swap the vanilla extract in the buttercream for maple extract for a warm, sweet twist that complements cinnamon wonderfully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the batter for a surprising heat that dances with the sweetness of the cinnamon.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over finished macarons for an indulgent touch that elevates these treats to a new level of deliciousness.
Coconut Flour: Substitute some almond flour with coconut flour for a gluten-free alternative, adjusting the liquid in the buttercream to maintain texture.
Aquafaba: For a vegan twist, replace egg whites with aquafaba. Whip it until stiff peaks form, then fold into the dry ingredients for a lighter version.
Caramel Filling: Swap the cinnamon buttercream for a luscious caramel filling to create a decadent treat sure to delight any sweet tooth.
Herb-infused Shells: Infuse your egg whites with crushed herbs like rosemary or thyme before whipping for an unexpected flavor pairing that adds depth.

Before diving into these variations, consider checking our guide on flavored buttercream variations to find the perfect filling for your macaron adventure!

Storage Tips for Snickerdoodle Macarons

Room Temperature: Keep uneaten Snickerdoodle Macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. This option is best for enjoying their fresh texture.

Fridge: Store assembled macarons in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked macarons for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat Snickerdoodle Macarons, as they are best served chilled or at room temperature to preserve their delicate texture and flavor.

Snickerdoodle Macarons Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Snickerdoodle Macarons?
Absolutely! When it comes to ensuring your Snickerdoodle Macarons are perfect, focus on choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients. For the egg whites, use the freshest eggs you can find, ideally organic or free-range, as they whip to a better volume when at room temperature. Opt for finely ground almond flour, as coarse flour will affect the texture of your macarons—look for a consistent, powdery texture in the packaging.

How can I store my Snickerdoodle Macarons to keep them fresh?
Very simply! Store your uneaten Snickerdoodle Macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days for the freshest experience. If you’re keeping them longer, refrigerate them for up to 4-5 days. Ensure they’re in a tightly sealed container to avoid drying out. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!

Can I freeze Snickerdoodle Macarons and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Snickerdoodle Macarons,Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the macarons in the refrigerator overnight. This gentle thawing helps retain their delicate texture and flavor.

What should I do if my macaron shells crack while baking?
No worries! Crackling can happen for a few reasons—often due to too much heat or not resting the shells long enough before baking. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate and consider using an oven thermometer. If the oven is too hot, lower the temperature a bit, as macarons require a steady heat for even cooking. Also, make sure to let the piped shells rest until they form a skin before baking, which should take 20-40 minutes at room temperature.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Snickerdoodle Macarons?
Definitely! Snickerdoodle Macarons are suitable for vegetarians, but if you’re catering to those with dietary restrictions, you can make a vegan version by using aquafaba (whipped chickpea water) in place of egg whites. Additionally, if someone has nut allergies, there’s a possibility to experiment with sunflower seed flour, though it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Always be sure to check ingredients for anyone affected by allergies!