Are you ready to take your macaron game to the next level? Then it’s time to explore the world of decadent fillings that will make these delicate French treats truly irresistible. From classic combinations like vanilla bean buttercream and salted caramel ganache, to fruity pairings like raspberry rose jam and strawberry champagne buttercream, there’s a filling out there for every macaron lover.
In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 unique and delicious fillings that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your macaron journey, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family.
Vanilla Bean Buttercream Filling
Elevate your cakes and pastries with this creamy and aromatic vanilla bean buttercream filling. Perfect for sandwiching layers or topping your favorite baked goods.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon grated vanilla bean
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the vanilla extract, salt, and grated vanilla bean. Mix until well combined.
4. Beat for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the filling is light and airy.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– For a more intense vanilla flavor, use 1 whole vanilla bean instead of grating half.
– Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to achieve your desired sweetness level.
– This buttercream can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Salted Caramel Ganache Filling
Salted Caramel Ganache Filling Recipe
Elevate your baked goods with this rich and creamy salted caramel ganache filling. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, this decadent treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 tablespoon fleur de sel (or flaky sea salt)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, butter, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the caramel turns a deep amber color.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt, fleur de sel, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Let cool slightly before using as a filling.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Raspberry Rose Jam Filling
Transform your baked goods with this sweet and tangy raspberry rose jam filling, perfect for cakes, pastries, and cookies. This easy-to-make recipe combines the flavors of fresh raspberries and fragrant rose petals to create a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup rose syrup (or 1 tablespoon dried rose petals and 1 tablespoon honey)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the raspberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and rose syrup (or rose petals and honey).
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
5. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
6. Let cool before using as a filling or topping.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Dark Chocolate Espresso Filling
Elevate your baked goods with this indulgent dark chocolate espresso filling, perfect for cakes, pastries, or truffles. With its deep, velvety texture and intense flavor profile, this filling is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
3. Add the espresso powder and whisk until well combined.
4. Stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.
5. Allow the filling to cool and thicken at room temperature before using.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe
Lemon Curd Cream Filling
Brighten up your desserts with this tangy and sweet lemon curd cream filling, perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and more!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, softened butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Add the grated lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Whisk until well combined.
3. Pour the filling into an airtight container or a piping bag fitted with a large round tip (if desired).
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-bake recipe.
Matcha White Chocolate Filling
Elevate your baked goods with the subtle bitterness of matcha and the richness of white chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and 1/2 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar, matcha powder, and salt until smooth.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave or double boiler. Stir into sugar mixture until combined.
5. Allow filling to cool and thicken at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Strawberry Champagne Buttercream
Elevate your baked goods with this decadent strawberry champagne buttercream, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons strawberry puree
– 2 tablespoons champagne or sparkling wine
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the strawberry puree and mix until well combined.
4. Pour in the champagne and vanilla extract, mixing until the buttercream is light and airy.
5. Beat for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a frosting, not a baked good.
Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Filling
This rich and creamy filling is perfect for spreading on toast, using as a dip, or as a surprise center for cakes and pastries. With the combination of peanut butter and cream cheese, you’ll be in for a treat!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (110g) cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the peanut butter and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. Beat for an additional 2-3 minutes until the filling is creamy and light.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! This filling is ready when you are.
Pistachio Praline Filling
Elevate your baked goods with this rich and nutty pistachio praline filling, perfect for cakes, cookies, or pastries. This sweet and crunchy mixture is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine pistachios, sugar, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture turns golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until melted. Let cool slightly.
4. Stir in salt to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Lime Curd Filling
Elevate your baked goods with this tangy and creamy coconut lime curd filling, perfect for cakes, tarts, and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup (30g) shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together butter, sugar, and egg yolks until smooth.
3. Add lime juice, coconut, and vanilla extract; whisk until well combined.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat; let cool slightly before straining through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blackberry Lavender Honey Filling
Elevate your baked goods with this luscious filling, combining the tartness of blackberries with the floral sweetness of lavender and the warmth of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine blackberries, lavender buds, and sugar.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the berries pop (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in honey until dissolved.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove lavender buds.
5. Add water and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Tiramisu Mascarpone Filling
Elevate your tiramisu game with this rich and creamy mascarpone filling, perfect for layering with ladyfingers and coffee.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces (225g) mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually add the granulated sugar and whisk until combined.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 40 minutes (including refrigeration)
This creamy mascarpone filling is ready to be layered with your favorite ladyfingers and coffee. Enjoy!
Earl Grey Tea Infused Buttercream
Elevate your baking game with the unique flavor of Earl Grey tea infused into a rich and creamy buttercream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons Earl Grey tea leaves
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter and Earl Grey tea leaves.
2. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the tea flavor to infuse into the butter.
3. Strain the tea leaves from the butter mixture using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Add the powdered sugar and heavy cream to the butter mixture. Beat until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of Earl Grey tea leaves to your liking.
– Use this buttercream for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Passion Fruit Ganache Filling
Elevate your desserts with this luscious passion fruit ganache filling, perfect for cakes, pastries, and truffles. With its sweet-tart flavor and velvety texture, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 passion fruits, pulp and juice only (about 1/4 cup)
– 1 tablespoon corn syrup
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and softened butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the passion fruit pulp and juice.
3. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. Stir in the corn syrup until dissolved.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cookies and Cream Whipped Filling
Elevate your dessert game with this light and airy whipped filling infused with the classic flavors of cookies and cream!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crushed Oreo cookies (about 12-15 cookies)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the softened butter and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Add the vanilla extract and crushed Oreo cookies; mix until well combined.
5. Season with a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blueberry Cheesecake Filling
Elevate your cheesecakes with a sweet and tangy blueberry filling that’s perfect for topping or layering. This recipe yields a deliciously fruity and creamy spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the blueberries release their juice (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
4. Let cool to room temperature before using or refrigerating for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chai Spiced Buttercream Filling
Elevate your cakes and pastries with the warm, aromatic flavors of chai spices in this indulgent buttercream filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons chai tea-infused milk or heavy cream (see notes)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and salt. Beat until well combined.
4. Add the chai tea-infused milk or heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until the filling reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake filling.
Notes:
To make chai tea-infused milk, steep 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf black tea or 2 tea bags in 1 cup (240ml) of milk for 5 minutes. Strain and use in place of heavy cream.
White Chocolate Raspberry Filling
White Chocolate Raspberry Filling Recipe
Elevate your baking game with this decadent White Chocolate Raspberry Filling recipe! This sweet and tangy filling is perfect for cakes, cookies, and other treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. Add the butter and vanilla extract to the melted white chocolate and stir until combined.
4. Gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined.
5. Stir in the raspberries and granulated sugar until evenly distributed.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: About 2 cups of filling
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 18 decadent macaron filling recipes that are simply irresistible! From classic vanilla bean buttercream to bold and innovative flavor combinations like matcha white chocolate, coconut lime curd, and chai spiced buttercream. Whether you’re a fan of fruity flavors, nutty undertones, or rich and creamy textures, there’s something on this list for everyone. Try out these unique and delicious fillings to elevate your macaron game and impress your friends and family with your creativity and baking skills.
