If you’re looking for a showstopping treat that delivers decadence in each bite, Nutella Drizzle Macarons are about to become your new dessert obsession. Delicate, crisp shells with chewy centers are lovingly sandwiched together with swirls of Nutella, then given a glossy crown of chocolate-hazelnut drizzle. There’s something magical in the pairing of classic French technique with everyone’s favorite spread, creating an irresistible sweet you’ll want to share (but might not!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Nutella Drizzle Macarons is in how a handful of simple ingredients transform into elegant little masterpieces. Each element is truly essential — from finely ground almond flour for that iconic texture to glossy whipped egg whites that give macarons their lift. Let’s break down what you need and why it matters.
- Powdered sugar: The fine texture sweetens and smooths your shells for that signature macaron look and melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Almond flour (finely ground): Provides the nutty, slightly sweet base and is key for delicate, chewy interiors.
- Egg whites (room temperature): Whipped into a stiff meringue, they create the airy, yet sturdy structure of the macarons.
- Granulated sugar: Helps the meringue reach glossy, stable peaks, so your shells rise and shine every time.
- Cream of tartar: A stabilizer for the egg whites, ensuring your meringue holds up beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and rounds out the flavors.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the nutty notes.
- Nutella (or other chocolate-hazelnut spread): The star of the show! This creamy filling and drizzle give the macarons an unbeatable richness and lovable nostalgia.
- Milk: Used to thin the Nutella for a picture-perfect drizzle; just enough to make it pourable but not runny.
How to Make Nutella Drizzle Macarons
Step 1: Prep Your Trays
Start by lining two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This step is non-negotiable — it means easy removal and perfect bottoms for your macarons. If using parchment, secure it at the edges with a little batter in the corners so it doesn’t lift during piping.
Step 2: Blitz and Sift Dry Ingredients
Pulse the powdered sugar and almond flour together in a food processor until super-fine. This ensures your Nutella Drizzle Macarons have smooth, shiny shells. Sift the mixture into a bowl and toss out any chunky bits for the most refined texture.
Step 3: Whip the Meringue
In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar and a pinch of salt on medium speed until foamy. Slowly sprinkle in the granulated sugar as you mix. Turn up to high speed and beat until you get stiff, glossy peaks that hold their shape. Briefly blend in the vanilla extract — this is when your kitchen starts to smell heavenly!
Step 4: Fold Together Like a Pro
Now comes the macaronage! Gently fold your fine almond mixture into the meringue a scoop at a time. Use a spatula and soft hands, turning the bowl as you go. The batter should flow like molten lava and drop in ribbons that rest on themselves for a few seconds before melting back in. Watch carefully — overmixing leads to flat shells, undermixing leads to lumps.
Step 5: Pipe and Rest
Spoon the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip and pipe 1.5-inch circles onto your prepared sheets. After piping, tap the trays on the counter a few times to pop any air bubbles (it’s oddly satisfying!). Let them sit out for 30 to 60 minutes, until a matte skin forms on the surface — this is how you get those iconic “feet” on every Nutella Drizzle Macaron.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 300°F. Bake the macarons one sheet at a time for 15–18 minutes, rotating halfway through for even coloring. The shells should lift easily without sticking. Allow them to cool completely on the trays before attempting to remove — patience makes perfect!
Step 7: Fill with Nutella
Once totally cool, gently pair up macaron shells of similar size. Pipe or spread a generous layer of Nutella onto the flat side of one, top with another, and press lightly to make the ultimate sandwich. The creamy, nutty filling is what takes these from French classic to Nutella Drizzle Macarons magic.
Step 8: Add the Signature Nutella Drizzle
For the finishing touch, microwave 2 tablespoons of Nutella with just enough milk to make it pourable. Drizzle over your filled macarons using a spoon or a quick DIY piping bag. Let the drizzle set before you plate up — this is what gives your Nutella Drizzle Macarons their bakery-worthy look and next-level flavor pop.
How to Serve Nutella Drizzle Macarons
Garnishes
Dress your Nutella Drizzle Macarons with a few extra touches for visual flair and flavor. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted hazelnuts or a dust of cocoa powder really amplifies the chocolatey vibe. Edible gold leaf or chocolate pearls are gorgeous for special celebrations, making your macarons look like jewel-box treasures.
Side Dishes
While these macarons shine on their own, they also steal the show as part of a dessert board. Serve with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or even a bowl of creamy vanilla ice cream to contrast the sweet richness. A cup of espresso or a glass of cold milk makes the perfect sip in between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack Nutella Drizzle Macarons on a cake stand for an elegant centerpiece, or tuck them into gift boxes lined with parchment for the ultimate homemade gift. You can even assemble them “tower-style” as a mini croquembouche for a playful twist at parties or showers. They’re as graphic and fun as they are delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, these macarons taste even better after a day or two. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days — the chill helps meld the flavors and softens the shells just enough for that perfect bite. Always bring to room temperature before enjoying for maximum flavor.
Freezing
Macarons freeze beautifully, so don’t be afraid to make a big batch. Arrange your Nutella Drizzle Macarons in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then store them in a zip-top freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let them sit out for 30 minutes before serving for best texture.
Reheating
No reheating is needed for these beauties; in fact, a little chilling time enhances them! If chilled or frozen, simply let your Nutella Drizzle Macarons come up to room temperature for that classic chewy-crisp experience. Skip the microwave or oven to preserve their delicate structure and finish.
FAQs
Why did my macarons crack or spread?
This can happen if the batter was overmixed or the shells didn’t rest long enough before baking. Always make sure to gently fold and wait for a skin to form before they hit the oven.
Can I use a different filling besides Nutella?
Absolutely! While Nutella is the star of Nutella Drizzle Macarons, you can experiment with other fillings like chocolate ganache, vanilla buttercream, or even a peanut butter cream for a fun twist.
Do I need to mature macarons in the fridge?
Yes, letting your filled macarons rest in the fridge for 24 hours helps the flavors meld and gives you that sought-after chewy-yet-tender interior. It’s worth the extra wait!
How do I get perfectly even macaron shells?
Use a template under your parchment, pipe straight down, and make sure your batter is the right consistency. Tapping the tray and letting them rest also lead to uniform, beautiful macarons.
Is there a way to make these vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute aquafaba (chickpea water) for egg whites to make the shells vegan. For dairy-free, use a dairy-free chocolate-hazelnut spread and plant-based milk for the drizzle.
Final Thoughts
Nutella Drizzle Macarons are truly a labor of love, but every bite is totally rewarding. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these little sweets will leave everyone wowed and coming back for more. Go ahead, give these dreamy bites a try — you might just start a delicious new tradition!
Print
Nutella Drizzle Macarons Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including resting)
- Yield: 20 macarons (10 sandwiches) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Nutella Drizzle Macarons that combine the classic French treat with the rich flavors of chocolate-hazelnut spread. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!
Ingredients
For the macaron shells:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup almond flour (finely ground)
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup Nutella (or other chocolate-hazelnut spread)
For the drizzle:
- 2 tablespoons Nutella
- 1–2 teaspoons milk (to thin)
Instructions
- Prepare the macaron shells: Line baking sheets, pulse powdered sugar and almond flour, sift, beat egg whites, add sugar, beat until stiff peaks, fold in dry mixture, pipe circles, let sit.
- Bake the macarons: Preheat oven, bake for 15–18 minutes, cool on sheets.
- Fill the macarons: Spread Nutella on half the shells, top with remaining shells.
- Drizzle: Microwave Nutella and milk, drizzle over macarons, let set.
Notes
- Macarons are best after maturing in the fridge for 24 hours.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Bring to room temperature before serving.
- You can use Nutella buttercream for a firmer filling.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 macaron
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
