Rainbow Macarons Recipe with Easy Step by Step Video Guide

Name: Rainbow Macarons
Prep time: 1 h 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 110 grams aged egg whites (about 4 large egg whites); 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional); 110 grams granulated sugar (1/2 cup + 2 teaspoons); 140 grams superfine almond flour (1 1/4 cups); 125 grams powdered sugar (1 cup); 40 grams nonpareil sprinkles (1/4 cup); 113 grams unsalted butter at room temperature (1/2 cup); 4 grams vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (1 teaspoon); 2 grams fine salt (1/4 teaspoon); 250 grams powdered sugar (2 cups); 15 grams heavy whipping cream, room temperature (1 tablespoon); Gel food coloring in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple (to be added as needed for coloring)

By:

Brandi Oshea

Published:

September 5, 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Rainbow Macarons

Imagine pulling a tray of vibrant, colorful rainbow macarons from your oven, each one a tiny burst of joy that brightens any gathering. Rainbow macarons are not just a treat for the eyes; they bring a fun twist to traditional baking, making them a favorite among home cooks and baking enthusiasts alike. With their light, airy texture and endless customization options, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and appeal to various tastes and dietary needs.

This rainbow macarons recipe is straightforward, requiring basic ingredients you might already have on hand. It takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes total, including prep, cooking, and resting time, so it’s perfect for busy parents or students who want impressive results without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, these macarons offer a lighter dessert option that can fit into a balanced diet, promoting wellness through moderate portions and natural colorings.

Ease of preparation makes this recipe ideal for beginners, as it uses simple steps and everyday tools.

Health benefits come from choosing natural ingredients and controlling portions, helping diet-conscious individuals enjoy sweets responsibly.
Versatility allows for easy tweaks, such as vegan or gluten-free versions, so everyone from families to seniors can savor them.
Distinctive flavor and colors create a delightful experience, turning ordinary moments into memorable ones around the table.

For those new to baking, this recipe provides a great starting point, and if you’re looking for more dessert inspiration, check out our easy no-churn vanilla ice cream recipe to pair with your macarons.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Rainbow Macarons
2. Essential Ingredients for Rainbow Macarons
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Rainbow Macarons: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Rainbow Macarons
5. Mastering Rainbow Macarons: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Rainbow Macarons: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Rainbow Macarons
8. Rainbow Macarons

Essential Ingredients for Rainbow Macarons

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making perfect rainbow macarons. This section lists everything you need for both the macaron shells and the rainbow buttercream frosting. Using precise measurements ensures your treats turn out just right, so grab your kitchen scale and let’s get started.

Below is a comprehensive list of all ingredients required for this recipe. Remember to measure accurately for the best results.

Ingredients for Macaron Shells

110 grams aged egg whites (about 4 large egg whites)
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)
110 grams granulated sugar (1/2 cup + 2 teaspoons)
140 grams superfine almond flour (1 1/4 cups)
125 grams powdered sugar (1 cup)
40 grams nonpareil sprinkles (1/4 cup)

Ingredients for Rainbow Buttercream Frosting

113 grams unsalted butter at room temperature (1/2 cup)
4 grams vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (1 teaspoon)

2 grams fine salt (1/4 teaspoon)
250 grams powdered sugar (2 cups)
15 grams heavy whipping cream, room temperature (1 tablespoon)
Gel food coloring in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple (to be added as needed for coloring)

This structured list covers every item, making it simple to shop and prepare. If you’re exploring more baking options, our chocolate lava cakes recipe uses some similar techniques for a decadent twist.

How to Prepare the Perfect Rainbow Macarons: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating rainbow macarons at home is an adventure that’s both fun and rewarding. Start by setting up your workspace to make the process smooth and enjoyable. This guide walks you through each step, incorporating the detailed directions from our recipe summary to help you achieve those iconic, colorful shells.

Preparing the Macaron Shells

First, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking. Whisk the 110 grams of aged egg whites at medium speed until small bubbles form, then add the 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar and mix until soft peaks appear. Gradually add the 110 grams of granulated sugar, mixing on medium speed for 30 seconds before increasing to medium-high speed until you get stiff, glossy peaks.

Next, sift the 140 grams of superfine almond flour and 125 grams of powdered sugar into the meringue. Fold everything together gently with a circular motion until the batter flows like a thick ribbon. Pipe 1 3/4-inch rounds onto the baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart, and bang the pans on the counter to release air bubbles. Use a toothpick to pop any remaining bubbles and sprinkle the 40 grams of nonpareil sprinkles on the wet shells.

Let the shells rest for 30 minutes or until a skin forms and they look matte. Preheat your oven to 315 degrees Fahrenheit and bake one tray at a time on the middle rack for 18-22 minutes. Rotate the pan halfway through and cover with foil to avoid browning. Cool the macarons on the pan for 15 minutes before removing them.

Making the Buttercream Frosting

To prepare the buttercream, beat the 113 grams of unsalted butter at room temperature on medium speed until it’s light and smooth. Add the 4 grams of vanilla extract and 2 grams of fine salt on low speed, then slowly mix in the 250 grams of powdered sugar and 15 grams of heavy whipping cream until combined.

Divide the frosting into six portions and color each one with gel food coloring in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. Spread or pipe long rows of the colored frosting on plastic wrap, roll it into a sausage shape, twist the ends, cut one end, and place it into a piping bag with a large round tip.

Assembling the Macarons

Pair up the cooled macaron shells and pipe a dollop of the rainbow buttercream onto one shell, then press the matching shell on top to form a sandwich. Store them in an airtight container, chill in the fridge overnight, and let them sit at room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Preparation Step	Time Required
Prep time	20 minutes
Cook time	20 minutes
Resting time	1 hour
Total time	Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Rainbow Macarons

One of the best parts of rainbow macarons is how adaptable they are to different diets. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or watching calories, you can tweak this recipe without losing its charm.

Replace egg whites with aquafaba for a vegan option that keeps the meringue structure intact.
Use blanched almond meal or cashew flour for a finer texture, making it suitable for those with nut preferences.

Incorporate natural colorings like beetroot powder and opt for dairy-free fillings such as coconut cream.

This flexibility ensures everyone, from working professionals to newlyweds, can enjoy these treats.

Mastering Rainbow Macarons: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, dive into advanced techniques to elevate your rainbow macarons. Using a kitchen scale for precise measurements and silicone mats helps avoid common pitfalls like sticking.

Pro Techniques and Flavor Ideas

The macaronage technique is key, so fold the batter just right for the perfect consistency. For flavor variations, try adding matcha or citrus zest to the batter.

Pipe shells in uniform sizes for a professional look.
Experiment with fillings like those in our other recipes for added fun.

When baking, remember that practice makes perfect don’t get discouraged if your first batch isn’t flawless.

How to Store Rainbow Macarons: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your rainbow macarons fresh and delicious. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to preserve their texture.

Freeze unfilled shells for longer storage, thawing them overnight in the fridge.
Let macarons reach room temperature before eating to enjoy their delicate crunch.

This method is great for meal prep, allowing you to bake in batches.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Rainbow Macarons

What is the easiest method to make rainbow macarons at home?

The French method is the simplest way to make rainbow macarons for beginners. It involves whipping egg whites into a meringue, then gently folding in sifted almond flour and powdered sugar. This approach requires minimal equipment and less technical skill than the Italian or Swiss methods, making it ideal for home bakers seeking vibrant, colorful shells.

How do I achieve bright, even colors in my rainbow macaron shells?

Use gel or paste food coloring as they provide concentrated hues without thinning the batter. Divide the macaron batter evenly, then mix each portion thoroughly with the chosen colors. Avoid liquid food coloring since it can affect the batter’s consistency and baking results. For even coloring, whip the batter uniformly and pipe shells consistently.

What is the best way to store filled rainbow macarons to maintain freshness?

Store filled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to one month, thawing in the fridge before serving. Unfilled shells can be frozen for up to two months. Proper storage keeps the shells crisp and the filling flavorful.

Why do macarons need to rest before baking, and how long should this take?

Resting macarons allows a thin, dry skin to form on the shells, which helps create the signature “feet” and prevents cracking during baking. Rest time is typically 30 to 60 minutes, depending on humidity. The shells should look matte and feel dry to the touch before being baked.

What should I do if my macarons crack or don’t develop feet?

Cracking or missing feet can result from improper batter consistency, insufficient drying time, or incorrect oven temperature. Ensure you fold the batter until it flows in a thick ribbon but isn’t too runny. Let the shells rest until dry to the touch, and bake at the recommended temperature (around 315°F/157°C). Adjust oven settings or rest time if problems persist.

Rainbow Macarons Recipe with Easy Step by Step Video Guide

Why You’ll Love This Rainbow Macarons