Do you love soft, chewy, and sweet treats? Then you will enjoy making Mary Berry’s almond macaroons at home. These little delights are light, nutty, and super easy to bake—even if you’re a beginner. In this article, I’ll show you how to make Mary Berry-style macaroons with clear steps, easy language, and helpful tips. Let’s get started!
🥥 Wait, Are These Macaroons or Macarons?
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s clear the confusion.
Feature | Macaroons | Macarons |
---|---|---|
Texture | Chewy and soft | Light and crisp outside, soft inside |
Main Ingredient | Shredded coconut or ground almonds | Almond flour |
Shape | Small mounds or domes | Sandwich-style with filling |
Easy to make? | Yes | More difficult, needs practice |
This recipe is for almond macaroons — simple, sweet, and beginner-friendly. Not the fancy French macarons!
🍪 Mary Berry Macaroons Recipe Overview
- 🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
- 🔥 Baking Time: 30 minutes
- 🍽️ Total Time: 45 minutes
- 🍪 Makes: About 20–24 macaroons
- ⭐ Skill Level: Easy
- 💰 Budget-Friendly: Yes
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 240 grams caster sugar
- 150 grams ground almonds
- 35 grams semolina or ground rice
- 5–6 drops of almond extract
- 12 blanched almond halves (for topping)
📌 Note: If you don’t have a kitchen scale, here’s a rough conversion:
Ingredient | Grams | Cups/Tablespoons (approx.) |
---|---|---|
Ground Almonds | 150g | 1½ cups |
Caster Sugar | 240g | 1¼ cups |
Semolina/Ground Rice | 35g | 3 tablespoons |
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
- Use a clean, dry bowl.
- Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- (When you lift the whisk, the egg whites should stand up.)
Step 3: Add Sugar Slowly
- While whisking, slowly add caster sugar.
- Keep beating until the mixture is shiny and thick.
Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients
- Gently mix in:
- Ground almonds
- Semolina or ground rice
- Almond extract
- Use a spatula and fold slowly to keep the air in.
Step 5: Shape the Macaroons
- Spoon small heaps onto your trays.
- Leave space between each.
- Press a half almond on top of each one.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake for 30 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Let them cool for 5 minutes on the tray, then move to a wire rack.
🍫 Optional Twists
Want to try something new? Here are a few fun ideas:
- Chocolate drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle over the cooled macaroons.
- Flavor change: Try vanilla or lemon extract instead of almond.
- Coconut version: Swap ground almonds with shredded coconut for a different taste.
🔁 Can I Make These in Advance?
Yes! You can make them 2–3 days ahead.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- In warm weather, refrigerate them and bring to room temp before eating.
- You can also freeze them for up to 1 month.
🥄 Nutrition Info (Per Macaroon)
Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 50–60 kcal |
Carbs | 7–9g |
Sugars | 6–8g |
Protein | 1–2g |
Fat | 2–3g |
Sodium | <5mg |
❓ FAQs About Almond Macaroons
1. Why are my macaroons cracking on top?
This happens if the oven is too hot or the batter is under-mixed. Use an oven thermometer and fold your mixture gently but fully.
2. Can I skip the almond extract?
Yes! You can use vanilla or lemon instead. Just know the flavor will change.
3. Can I use whole almonds instead of ground almonds?
You can grind your own almonds, but make sure they are very fine. Avoid turning them into almond butter.
4. My egg whites won’t whip. What’s wrong?
Make sure your bowl and beaters are clean and grease-free. Also, use room temperature eggs.
🌟 Pro Tips for Perfect Macaroons
- Use fresh eggs – they whip better.
- Sift ground almonds and semolina for a smooth mix.
- Don’t overmix – stop folding once combined.
- Let them rest for 10–15 mins before baking to help form a light crust.
- Use parchment paper, not foil, to prevent sticking.
🧁 Final Thoughts
Mary Berry’s macaroons are not just tasty—they’re also fun and simple to make. Whether you’re baking for your family, a tea party, or just yourself, this recipe is a perfect choice. With their soft bite and sweet almond flavor, these macaroons are sure to be loved by everyone.
So grab your mixing bowl and get baking! 🍪
For more simple and fun home recipes, visit ThisOlderHouse — your friendly guide to easy home cooking.