Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWhen I first laid eyes on these charming bear macarons, I couldn’t resist the urge to bring a touch of whimsy to my dessert table. With their sweet, playful shapes and luscious dark chocolate ganache, these delightful French macarons are the perfect homemade treat for anyone looking to add a bit of joy to their gatherings. Not only are they visually stunning, but they also offer the comfort of that crisp shell giving way to a soft, chewy interior. Whether you’re preparing them as a special gift or simply to enjoy with loved ones, bear macarons are a delightful crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit any palate. Ready to bake a batch and spread some love? Let’s dive into the sweet magic! Why Are Bear Macarons So Special? Unique Charm: These bear macarons combine the elegance of French pastries with playful bear shapes, making them an eye-catching centerpiece for any occasion. Decadent Filling: The rich dark chocolate ganache adds a deep flavor that enhances each bite, while the option to include Nutella provides a delightful twist for chocolate lovers. Customizable Treats: Feel free to get creative! You can switch up the fillings to include fruit jams or different types of chocolate, ensuring these bear macarons suit everyone’s taste. Perfect Gift Idea: Whether for birthdays, holidays, or just because, these adorable treats make heartfelt homemade gifts that will leave a lasting impression. Make Ahead Delight: Assemble them in advance and store in the fridge; they actually improve in flavor after maturing overnight. Just place them at room temperature before serving for that irresistible fresh taste! Bear Macaron Ingredients For the Ganache Heavy Whipping Cream – Provides creaminess and richness; use at room temperature for best results. 63% Dark Chocolate – Main flavor for the ganache, delivering rich cocoa notes; feel free to experiment with different cocoa percentages. Unsalted Butter – Adds smoothness to the ganache; can be swapped for dairy-free butter for a vegan option. Light Corn Syrup (optional) – Enhances shine and smoothness of the ganache; feel free to omit if preferred. Fine Salt – Balances sweetness; an essential ingredient for enhancing flavor. For the Macaron Shells Aged Egg Whites – Crucial for structure; aging helps achieve optimal meringue stability. Cream of Tartar – Optional, but stabilizes egg whites; not needed if using aged egg whites. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the shells and aids meringue formation. Superfine Almond Flour – Provides structure; ensure it’s blanched for a smooth texture. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and combines with almond flour for the shell mixture. Cocoa Powder – Adds chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed can be used as a substitute for a different taste. For the Royal Icing Powdered Sugar (for Royal Icing) – Sweetens the decorating icing for a charming finish. Meringue Powder – Stabilizes the royal icing; optional but affects texture if omitted. Vanilla Extract – Enhances icing flavor; substitute with vanilla bean paste for a more robust taste. Water – Adjust to achieve the desired consistency for the royal icing. Black Gel Food Coloring – Adds color for decorative details; use as needed for your bear creations. For the Fillings Nutella (optional) – Adds delightful flavor; can be replaced with fruit preserves or flavored ganaches for variety. These delightful Bear Macarons are bound to bring excitement and sweetness to your dessert table! Happy baking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bear Macarons Step 1: Make Ganache In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream over medium until just simmering. Remove from heat and stir in 4 ounces of 63% dark chocolate and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Mix until smooth, then add in 1 tablespoon of light corn syrup and a pinch of fine salt. Allow the ganache to sit at room temperature, thickening as it cools, while you prepare the macaron shells. Step 2: Prepare Egg Whites Separate 3 aged egg whites and let them sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours prior to beating. In a stand mixer, whisk egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add in 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, continuing to whisk until stiff peaks form, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the meringue is glossy and holds a firm shape. Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of superfine almond flour, 1.5 cups of powdered sugar, and 1/3 cup of cocoa powder to ensure a smooth macaron batter. Gently fold this dry mixture into the meringue using a spatula until just combined, taking care not to deflate the egg whites. The batter should flow like lava and hold a definite shape. Step 4: Pipe Shells Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, pipe bear-shaped outlines as a template, each about 1.5 inches wide. Allow the piped batter to rest for 30 minutes at room temperature until a skin forms; they should feel slightly tacky but not wet to the touch, which helps prevent cracking. Step 5: Bake Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Once the macarons have rested, bake in the oven for 19-21 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should form feet and remain stable. When done, the shells should not stick to the parchment when gently lifted. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before attempting to remove them. Step 6: Make Royal Icing In a bowl, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon of meringue powder and 1/4 cup of water. Mix until smooth, adjusting with more water if necessary to achieve a consistency suitable for piping. Divide the icing into separate bowls to color them with black gel food coloring for your bear faces. Step 7: Decorate Using a piping bag fitted with a fine tip, pipe little details on the cooled macaron shells to create bear faces, such as noses and eyes. Allow the royal icing decorations to harden at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before moving on to assembling the macarons. Step 8: Fill Macarons Take your prepared ganache and pipe a generous dollop onto the center of half of the macaron shells. If using, add a small spoonful of Nutella on top of the ganache. Place the remaining shells on top to sandwich, gently pressing to secure the filling between each beautifully decorated bear macaron. Step 9: Mature To enhance the flavor and texture of your handmade bear macarons, refrigerate them for at least 12 hours or overnight. This resting period allows the filling to soften the shells slightly. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to regain their delightful chewiness and shine. Make Ahead Options These adorable Bear Macarons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ganache filling up to 3 days in advance by making it and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The macaron shells can also be baked up to 24 hours ahead; simply let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their fabulous texture. When ready to assemble, pipe the ganache onto half of the shells with your fillings and sandwich them together. Allow the filled macarons to mature in the refrigerator overnight for ideal flavor development, and you’ll enjoy these charming treats that are just as delicious and fresh as if made on the same day! Expert Tips for Bear Macarons Measure Precisely: Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements; this is crucial for perfect macaron shells. Age Your Egg Whites: Separate and age egg whites 24 hours to improve meringue stability, ensuring a successful outcome. Skin Formation: Allow the piped macarons to rest until a skin forms; this prevents cracking during baking and produces better results. Watch Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the macarons as they bake; over-baking can result in dry shells, while under-baking may lead to hollow interiors. Flavor Development: Refrigerate the filled bear macarons overnight before serving; this enhances their flavor and texture, making every bite delightful. What to Serve with Adorable Bear Macarons? Pair these charming treats with delightful sides that enhance their whimsy and rich chocolate flavor. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a burst of tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the macarons. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess complements the chewy interior of the macarons, creating a comforting contrast that’s simply irresistible. Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it’s the perfect addition for a touch of elegance without overpowering the playful bear shapes. Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or espresso contrasts beautifully with the sweet chocolate, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat. Mint Tea: Its refreshing taste clears the palate between bites, enhancing the rich flavors of the macaron fillings for an elevated experience. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Serve them drizzled with warm chocolate sauce for an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will cherish. Elegant Dessert Platter: Create a stunning dessert board featuring assorted fruits, nuts, and mini pastries to accompany the adorable bear macarons, showcasing your creativity. Sparkling Fruit Juice: Add a refreshing and festive touch by serving with sparkling apple or berry juice, ideal for brightening any gathering. Mini Cheesecakes: Rich, creamy cheesecakes can provide a delightful contrast to the lightness of the macarons, making dessert time extra special. Coffee Liqueur Cocktails: For an adult twist, pair with a chocolatey coffee liqueur cocktail that matches the macarons’ richness—a perfect finish to any celebration. Storage Tips for Bear Macarons Room Temperature: Bear macarons can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, but it’s best to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Fridge: For optimal flavor, store assembled macarons in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. They will actually improve in taste after maturing overnight! Freezer: If needed, bear macarons can be frozen for up to a month. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container to prevent them from sticking together. Reheating: To enjoy frozen macarons, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. Bear Macarons: Variations & Substitutions Feel free to play around with these bear macarons and make them your own; the delicious journey is half the fun! Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and dairy-free butter for a vegan option. Flavorful Fillings: Replace dark chocolate ganache with flavored ganaches like raspberry or lemon for a zesty twist. Alternative Sweeteners: Use maple syrup or agave nectar in the ganache for a natural sweetener alternative. Texture Variation: Incorporate chopped nuts or crispy rice into the filling for an enjoyable contrast in texture. Colorful Icing: Experiment with natural food colorings, such as beet juice or spirulina, for vibrant, playful royal icing. Spicy Kick: For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the ganache to create a spiced filling. Playful Designs: Change the bear theme by using different shapes or colors, like bunnies or colorful pastel shells for a seasonal flair. Nutty Flavor: Introduce a hint of flavor by adding almond extract to the ganache for a deeper taste experience. Whether you’re looking to customize for dietary preferences or just want to experiment, these variations will keep your baking experience delightful! If you’re intrigued by more creative desserts, check out my guide on Homemade French Macarons for inspiration. Enjoy your sweet journey! Bear Macarons Recipe FAQs How do I select the right chocolate for the ganache? When choosing your chocolate, look for a good quality 63% dark chocolate for a rich flavor profile. Brands like Ghirardelli or Valrhona offer excellent options. If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to substitute with milk chocolate or adjust the cocoa percentage based on your taste preference. Can I store my bear macarons, and for how long? Absolutely! You can store assembled bear macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. They not only stay fresh but actually get better in flavor if allowed to mature overnight. For short-term storage, keep them at room temperature for about 2 days, but be sure to protect them from humidity. What is the best way to freeze bear macarons? To freeze bear macarons, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored like this for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the macarons thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bring them to room temperature before serving. How can I avoid common macaron mishaps? If your macaron shells turn out hollow, it could be a sign that you didn’t mix the batter enough during the macaronage process. Make sure to fold the dry ingredients into the meringue until the mixture flows like lava and holds its shape. Alternatively, if they crack during baking, it’s important to ensure that the piped batter forms a skin before baking—this usually takes about 30 minutes. What if someone has nut allergies; can bear macarons still be safe? For those with nut allergies, you can substitute almond flour with a safe alternative like sunflower seed flour. However, keep in mind that this can alter both the flavor and texture slightly. Always ensure your other ingredients, particularly your chocolate and some food colorings, are also allergy-safe by checking the labels carefully. Are there any specific tips for preparing the royal icing? Yes! For a perfect royal icing consistency, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of meringue powder with 1/4 cup of water. Mix until smooth, adjusting with more water if necessary. For decoration, divide the icing and tint it with black gel food coloring. The icing should hold its shape when piped, allowing for detailed bear faces! Delicious Bear Macarons with Rich Dark Chocolate Filling No ratings yet Indulge in delightful Bear Macarons featuring rich dark chocolate filling, a whimsical dessert perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hrCook Time 21 minutes minsMaturing Time 12 hours hrsTotal Time 13 hours hrs 21 minutes mins Servings: 12 macaronsCourse: DessertCuisine: FrenchCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Ganache1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream at room temperature4 ounces 63% Dark Chocolate main flavor for ganache1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter can use dairy-free butter for vegan option1 tablespoon Light Corn Syrup optional1 pinch Fine Salt balances sweetnessFor the Macaron Shells3 Aged Egg Whites aged for optimal meringue stability1/4 teaspoon Cream of Tartar optional3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar for sweetening1 cup Superfine Almond Flour blanched for smooth texture1.5 cups Powdered Sugar for shell mixture1/3 cup Cocoa Powder adds chocolate flavorFor the Royal Icing2 cups Powdered Sugar for royal icing1 tablespoon Meringue Powder optional1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract or vanilla bean paste1/4 cup Water for icing consistencyBlack Gel Food Coloring for decorative detailsFor the FillingsNutella optional, can replace with fruit preserves Equipment Stand mixerpiping bagsBaking Sheetssmall saucepan Method Ganache PreparationIn a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream over medium until just simmering. Remove from heat and stir in 4 ounces of 63% dark chocolate and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Mix until smooth, then add in 1 tablespoon of light corn syrup and a pinch of fine salt. Allow the ganache to sit at room temperature, thickening as it cools.Macaron ShellsSeparate 3 aged egg whites and let them sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours prior to beating. In a stand mixer, whisk egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add in 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, continuing to whisk until stiff peaks form, which should take about 5-7 minutes.In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of superfine almond flour, 1.5 cups of powdered sugar, and 1/3 cup of cocoa powder. Gently fold this dry mixture into the meringue using a spatula until just combined.Transfer the macaron batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, pipe bear-shaped outlines, each about 1.5 inches wide. Allow the piped batter to rest for 30 minutes at room temperature until a skin forms.Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Once the macarons have rested, bake in the oven for 19-21 minutes. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before removing them.Royal IcingIn a bowl, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon of meringue powder and 1/4 cup of water. Mix until smooth, adjusting with more water if necessary. Divide to color with black gel food coloring.Use a piping bag fitted with a fine tip to pipe little details on the cooled macaron shells to create bear faces. Allow the icing to harden at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.Assembling the MacaronsTake your prepared ganache and pipe a dollop onto the center of half of the macaron shells. If using, add a small spoonful of Nutella on top of the ganache. Place the remaining shells on top to sandwich.To enhance flavor, refrigerate the assembled macarons for at least 12 hours. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Nutrition Serving: 1macaronCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 50IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best results, measure ingredients precisely and allow macarons to mature for enhanced flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
