Cinnamon Thyme Orange Macarons

These delicate macarons combine the warm flavors of cinnamon and thyme with the zesty brightness of orange. A perfect treat for special occasions or as a delightful gift.

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup almond flour
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 2 large egg whites
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• Zest of 1 orange
• Orange food coloring optional
• For the filling:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons orange zest

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 300F 150C and line two baking sheets with parchment paper

In a food processor, pulse almond flour, confectioners sugar, ground cinnamon, dried thyme leaves, and orange zest until well combined

Sift the mixture into a bowl and set aside

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy

Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form

Add orange food coloring if desired

Gently fold the dry mixture into the beaten egg whites until the batter is smooth and shiny

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

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

Tap the baking sheets on the counter a few times to remove air bubbles

Let the macarons rest for about 20-30 minutes to form a skin on the surface

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the macarons are set and have firm feet

Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheets

For the filling, beat the softened butter, confectioners sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest until creamy and smooth

Pair up the cooled macaron shells based on size and spread a small amount of the filling on one shell

Top with another shell to create a sandwich

Store the macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld

Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Thyme Orange Macarons