Whenever I need a sweet escape back to my childhood, I turn to these delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons. Imagine the soft, chewy texture of a perfectly baked macaron, infused with the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter and the tangy sweetness of grape jelly. With every bite, it’s like savoring the nostalgic tastes of a classic PB&J sandwich, but dressed up for a fancy gathering!
What’s wonderful about these macarons is not just their distinct taste, but how versatile they are. While grape jelly lends a touch of tradition, feel free to swap it out for strawberry or blackberry jam if you’re feeling adventurous. Whether it’s for a birthday celebration, a cozy afternoon snack, or simply a treat to impress family and friends, these macarons are both easy to make and guaranteed to delight. Get ready to whisk up some magic in your kitchen!
Why Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons?
Delightful Twist: These Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons offer a twist on the classic PB&J, combining nostalgia with elegance.
Kid-Friendly Fun: They’re not just for adults; children love them too! Perfect for entertaining the little ones.
Versatile Flavors: Swap grape jelly for other favorites like strawberry or blackberry for endless flavor possibilities.
Impressive Presentation: With their colorful shells, these macarons are sure to impress at any gathering or special occasion.
Easy to Master: This recipe simplifies the intricate macaron-making process, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
Time-Saving Treat: Quick and easy to prepare, they fit perfectly into your busy schedule—sweetness without the wait!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells
- Almond Flour – Provides structure and a delicate texture. Substitute with finely ground sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Adds sweetness and a smooth finish to the macarons. No direct substitute; essential for macaron texture.
- Egg Whites – Essential for aeration; whipped to create the macaron structure. Use room temperature egg whites for better volume and stability.
- Granulated Sugar – Stabilizes egg whites during whipping. Avoid substitutes as it affects texture.
- Food Coloring (Purple & Brown) – For coloring shells to represent grape jelly and peanut butter. Replace with natural coloring if preferred.
For the Filling
- Peanut Butter – Creates the buttery filling with a rich flavor. Use creamy or crunchy peanut butter based on preference.
- Grape Jelly – Traditionally used for the filling; adds sweetness and tang. Substitute with strawberry or blackberry jam for different flavors.
How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons
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Prepare the Macaron Batter:
Sift the almond flour and confectioners’ sugar together into a bowl to create a fine dry mix. Then, in a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add the granulated sugar, whisking until the mixture is glossy and smooth. -
Fold the Ingredients:
Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients and food coloring into the whipped egg whites. Use a spatula to combine everything until the batter is smooth and forms a thick ribbon when lifted. -
Pipe the Shells:
Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, alternating colors to achieve a delightful look. Allow the macarons to rest until a skin forms on the surface, about 30 minutes. -
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for approximately 15-20 minutes, until they are firm and slightly shiny. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking, which can cause cracking. -
Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter with a touch of powdered sugar to achieve a thicker consistency. Once the macaron shells are cool, pipe a generous dollop of peanut butter filling onto half of the shells. Top each with a spoonful of grape jelly before placing another shell on top. -
Cool and Serve:
Allow the filled macarons to rest for a few hours, or ideally overnight, so the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy these treats with a cup of coffee or tea!
Optional: Dust with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance by following the piping and baking instructions, then allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, store the shells in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. The peanut butter filling can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 3 days to let the flavors develop. When ready to serve, simply pipe the filling between the shells along with grape jelly, and allow the assembled macarons to rest for about an hour to enhance their taste. You’ll enjoy these delicious treats with minimal hassle!
Storage Tips for Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons
Airtight Container: Store macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps them retain their delightful chewiness.
Refrigeration: If you want to keep them longer, transfer the macarons to the fridge, where they can last for up to a week. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezing: You can freeze these Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen macarons, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before indulging!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons?
These delightful treats are the perfect addition to any gathering, creating sweet moments to cherish with every bite.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of berries or tropical fruits complements the creamy filling beautifully. The juicy bursts will balance the sweetness of the macarons.
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Chilled Milk: A classic pairing that evokes childhood memories. The creamy texture of milk pairs seamlessly with the peanut butter flavor, enhancing the nostalgic experience.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea elevates the macarons. The richness of coffee or delicate notes of tea bring a comforting vibe to the table.
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Chocolate-covered Strawberries: These sweet treats add a touch of elegance and richness, creating a balanced dessert platter to wow guests. Plus, they bring that luscious sweetness alongside the macarons.
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Nutty Biscotti: Offering a nice crunchy contrast, biscotti provides a satisfying texture that pairs well with the smooth macarons. Their nutty flavor complements the peanut butter filling wonderfully.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling a bit of warm caramel on top creates a decadent experience, adding an irresistible layer of sweetness and richness to the treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream makes for a delightful combination, cooling down the palate and offering a rich contrast to the chewy macarons.
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Lemonade: A glass of refreshing lemonade brightens the dessert experience. The tartness cuts through the sweetness and adds a refreshing zing to the meal.
Expert Tips for Making Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons
- Egg White Perfection: Ensure your egg whites are free of yolk for proper whipping. This is vital for a light, airy macaron.
- Glossy Peaks: Beat the egg whites until they are glossy and form stiff peaks. This not only enhances texture but creates the perfect structure for your Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons.
- Resting Time: Don’t rush! Allow the piped macarons to rest until they form a skin. Skipping this step can lead to cracked shells during baking.
- Oven Vigilance: Avoid opening the oven door while baking. Sudden temperature changes can cause the shells to collapse.
- Cooling Period: Let assembled macarons rest after filling. This helps meld the flavors and creates a delightful burst of nostalgia in every bite!
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different jams or flavored peanut butter for unique twists on this classic recipe.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons Variations
Transform your macaron-making experience with these fun and delicious twists that will keep your taste buds dancing!
- Jam Swaps: Substitute grape jelly for strawberry or blackberry for a new fruity flair that still feels classic.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch and texture in the filling. This adds a delightful surprise!
- Flavored Peanut Butter: Opt for a flavored peanut butter, such as chocolate or cinnamon, to enrich the filling with exciting new layers of taste.
- Natural Colors: Use natural food coloring, like beet juice for red or turmeric for yellow, to create vibrant and visually appealing shells.
- Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne or a few drops of sriracha into the peanut butter filling for a surprising spicy twist that balances sweetness.
- Coconut Bliss: Stir in some toasted coconut flakes into the filling for a tropical vibe that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Sandwich Style: Make mini macaron sandwiches by spreading filling between two shells and then rolling the edges in mini chocolate chips for an extra treat!
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and ensure the jam is free of additives for a nut-free, creamy delight that everyone can enjoy.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons Recipe FAQs
What kind of almond flour should I use for my macarons?
I recommend using finely ground almond flour for the best texture. If you need a nut-free option, finely ground sunflower seeds work great as a substitute without compromising the structure of your macarons.
How should I store Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons?
Store your macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Remember to let them come to room temperature before you serve, as this helps enhance their chewy texture!
Can I freeze Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons?
Absolutely! You can freeze these delightful treats for up to 3 months. Just be sure to place them in a freezer-safe container, and separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
What should I do if my macaron shells crack while baking?
Cracked shells often result from an imbalance in the batter or improper baking conditions. Ensure that you don’t skip the resting time after piping—this is essential for forming a skin. Also, avoid opening the oven door during baking, as temperature fluctuations can cause the shells to collapse.
Are Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons suitable for those with nut allergies?
While these macarons primarily use almond flour and peanut butter, you can modify the recipe to be nut-free. Substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour for the shells and use a nut-free spread, like sunbutter, to create the filling instead of peanut butter. Always check ingredients for any potential allergens!
What variations can I try with the filling?
The flavor possibilities are endless! You can swap out grape jelly for strawberry or blackberry jam based on your preferences. Additionally, using flavored peanut butter—like honey or chocolate—can add a unique twist to your macarons. Feel free to get creative!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Macarons That Bring Back Childhood Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sift the almond flour and confectioners’ sugar together into a bowl to create a fine dry mix. Then, in a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add the granulated sugar, whisking until the mixture is glossy and smooth.
- Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients and food coloring into the whipped egg whites. Use a spatula to combine everything until the batter is smooth and forms a thick ribbon when lifted.
- Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, alternating colors to achieve a delightful look. Allow the macarons to rest until a skin forms on the surface, about 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for approximately 15-20 minutes, until they are firm and slightly shiny. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking, which can cause cracking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter with a touch of powdered sugar to achieve a thicker consistency. Once the macaron shells are cool, pipe a generous dollop of peanut butter filling onto half of the shells. Top each with a spoonful of grape jelly before placing another shell on top.
- Allow the filled macarons to rest for a few hours, or ideally overnight, so the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy these treats with a cup of coffee or tea!