Patience is most often a virtue but once in a while it's a lavender macaron. A petite, pillow-like cookie that is typically so darn pretty one might believe that it couldn't possibly taste good. But it does. It tastes like heaven all wrapped up into two bites. Of course, tasting heaven is going to cost you. The fee is nothing short of a lot of time, patience, finesse, and love. However, if you can afford to put forth these things, a macaron will love you back.
My mom and I spent yesterday planning and preparing for my upcoming wedding shower. We tested out sweet treats, created pretty paper things, and perused herb-laden recipes. As neither of us had ever attempted to make homemade macarons before, we figured we ought to give ourselves a trial run before committing to having them on the shower menu. I've never seen my mom intimidated by a recipe, but something about this one had her subtly frazzled. Maybe it was the macaron's mysterious texture; crunchy, chewy, and creamy all rolled into one. Maybe it was the lavender; a flower that is most often associated with aromatherapy. Or maybe, just maybe, it was the fact that she was making the sweet rounds in preparation for her little girl's wedding shower. Whatever the reason, if she was subtly frazzled, I, being the most impatient baker in town, was a hot mess.
Good thing I always prepare for mismeasures, kitchen clumsiness, and my generally aloof baking skills. Within the first two steps, I had mismeasured. Upon realizing my mistake, I informed my mom at which point she said, "I was wondering what you were doing, but I figured I'd just let you be until you figured it out on your own." This, my friends, is because I can be a bit stubborn in life the kitchen and my mom knows it. So she let me rock on with my bad baking self until I realized it on my own, because if there were a person whisperer, it would be her. I love her for that and about a gazillion other reasons.
Despite my initial mismeasure, my mom and I corrected my mistake and kept stride with the recipe thereafter. We ground, sifted, whipped, folded, waited, sprinkled, baked, and filled until something beautiful came to be. 
Lavender Macarons (Makes 16)
For the Macarons:
◊ ¾ cup ground raw, unsalted almonds
◊ 1 cup confectioner's sugar
◊ 2 large egg whites
◊ ¼ cup lavender sugar*
◊ lavender food coloring
◊ 1 teaspoon dried lavender flowers
For Filling:
◊ ½ cup cream cheese
◊ 2 tablespoon lavender sugar*
1. In a food processor, pulse the ground almonds and confectioner's sugar together for 15 seconds. Using a strainer, sift the almond-confectioner's sugar mix into a medium-sized bowl. Discard coarse almond bits left in strainer.
2. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks begin to form. Slowly add in the lavender sugar and food coloring, and continue to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. Slowly fold in the almond and confectioner's sugar mix. Fold and cut the mixture with a spatula until it develops a smooth, ribbon-like consistency.
3. Using a pastry bag with a large tip (approximately ¾-inch), pipe 32 small (1 ½-inch to 2-inch diameter) circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle half of the circles with dried lavender flowers.
4.. Heat oven to 325°. While the oven is heating, let the macarons rest for 30 minutes (a crunchy shell will begin to form).
5. Bake the macarons in the oven for 10-15 minutes. You'll know they are ready when they can be easily lifted from the parchment paper and the undersides are smooth and crunchy. Let the macarons cool for 10 minutes.
6. In a medium bowl, whip the cream cheese and lavender sugar together until smooth.
7. Using a small metal spatula, spread half of the macarons with the filling and top with the other halves to make small macaron sandwiches. Store the macarons in the refrigerator (can be kept for 2-3 days). Enjoy!
* To make lavender sugar, pulse 1 cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoon dried lavender flowers in a food processor.
lorijss says
yum yum!
Jumbled Up Jinggy says
These look absolutely to die for!!!
frugalfeeding says
So pretty - really nicely decorated. I always think it's nice to give macaroons a little decoration. Great recipe too. I'm not sure I have the patience to make them this well :D
trehops says
These look beautiful! I've been wanting to try my hand at making macarons, but am so intimidated at the process. Great job, they look delicious!
In Blue says
passing on the Sunshine Award to you....glad to have found you...
http://makebelieveboutique.com/2012/03/04/sunshine-award-2/
Rufus' Food and Spirits Guide says
Wow, just wow!
whilehewasout says
Ashley these are very pretty!
Celeste says
That was a nice tribute to me...thank you but I have a confession to make. One of my objectives was to see if they would still be as good 2 days later so that I could make them a couple of days ahead for the shower. Unfortunately I had no patience for waiting that long. Mike and I devoured all of my share directly after dinner. We didn't even take the time to sit down which is a big no-no for me. I guess that just goes to show you how delicious they were. In the past only chocolate could entice me this way. These little treats are well worth making!
Full Size Sheets says
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gamesfemme says
Oh my goodness these look so good! I've tried making macarons before, but could never get the filling right. I prefer a filling that's light and not overly rich. I may have to give these a try. Thanks for sharing!
jenmaaninamman says
They are beautiful! Almost too pretty to eat.
aishaloveslife says
OMG that looks amazing! I have been obsessed with the colour purple recently, and now that I realize I can eat purple food I feel like life is going to get even better...
Ashley says
Haha, that is awesome! It makes such a pretty color purple, too -- enjoy!
Karyl says
Reblogged this on Butterflies and Bunny Rabbits.
Rae says
Looks lovely!
Ashley says
Thanks!
greylashes says
I have tried them before and have made the decision they are one sweet treat I have no problem buying from the bakery! Yours looks amazing though so so perfect and not cracked.
Ashley says
I think I will buy more than I will bake, but it was definitely a fun project to undertake -- and when I say "project," I mean it ;)
Shannon.Kennedy says
I'll definitely have to try this out. I had a huge macaron baking failure, followed by a successful experience with coconut macarons. I've never had any lavender baked goods, so I think I might try this out!
Ashley says
The lavender really adds something special. My mom and I found that the key to successful macarons is in folding the batter to that perfect "glossy ribbon" point.
Shannon.Kennedy says
Yea, what I did was I added food coloring instead of coloring paste and it ruined the consistency of my batter so my macarons came out flat...
Mikalee Byerman says
I'm so HUNGRY...and these look nothing short of amazing! :)
Ashley says
I'm hungry too! Thanks for checking out the post :)
Michele // Just a Lil Lost says
Beautiful! I signed up for a cooking class while in Paris back in April to learn how to make macarons... OMG are they ever finicky. Kudos for making such beautiful ones!
Ashley says
You must be well-versed in creating these little treats if you learned in Paris -- how awesome!
Helen's Daughter says
They look BEAUTIFUL... no worries about the talent of you and your Mom. Great job. :)
Ashley says
Well, thank you!
nazarioartpainting says
Beautiful and look delicious. I will like to try the recipe. But Lavender flowers, how can I find? Is the special of Lavender flowers for food?
Ashley says
I was able to find dried lavender flowers in the bulk spice area at Whole Foods -- any specialty store should carry them. Enjoy!
Christina says
These look beautiful! Lavender macarons are one of my favorites.
Ashley says
Thanks so much!
Mom Meets Blog says
These look incredible! I love lavender in food (chocolate truffles, lavender whipped cream), it must be heavenly in a macaron! Although I am a bit intimidated by the recipe. . .
Ashley says
Lavender is so heavenly, isn't it? It adds that extra something special :)
OneWeekToCrazy says
I love this! Not only does the macaron look tasty, but you transformed the recipe into a really cute article...that's tough to do! Thanks for sharing!
Ashley says
Thank you so much! For me, cooking is second only to writing so that means a lot!
Alaina says
So pretty. Very nice.
Ashley says
Thank you!
Constance V. Walden says
I can just take these goodies. Thanks. Connie
http://7thandvine.wordpress.com/
karinagracepartridge says
Just discovered your blog and LOVE it! so inspirational....
Ashley says
Thank you so much! Inspirational = greatest compliment!
triathlonobsession says
Love your consistency. Went to NYC- La Duree yesterday and had some lovely macaroons. My husband made me chocolate macaroons with lavender cream in the middle for my birthday---but I can't wait to try this version. Thanks!
Ashley says
Chocolate with lavender cream sounds AMAZING -- I'll have to try that combination out next time! And what an awesome husband for making you macarons on your birthday!
triathlonobsession says
I do and sounds like you soon will too. Congrats!
lystra says
excited to try this soon! :)
The Lady of the House says
These look absolutely delicious. I've always wanted to try my hand at macarons, but this recipe has truly inspired me!
Ashley says
That makes me happy -- enjoy!
zeynepmutlu says
they look beautiful! will make some really soon!!
cigarettesandmovies says
I may have to make some subtle hints to my GF to make me some of those :)
Lady Philosopher says
Reblogged this on Lady Philospher's Blog and commented:
How i love you lavender? Let me count the ways... <3 These sound scrumptuous!
thewednesdayblues says
Beautiful! AND sounds delicious!
Richard McCargar says
I'm going to have to convince my daughter to come over and try this. I'm a disaster in the kitchen. Congrats on being freshly pressed.
Julecm says
So beautiful, and so visually perfect for a bridal shower. Your mom sounds like a dream. Happy nuptials!
accountkeepingplus says
Sounds like a beautiful, tasty sensation - Pam
Zethu Gqola says
I've never had Macarons before, so I'm definitely gonna try make some :)
Irene says
It's so late at night that I just scrolled down through your beautiful photographs. They're so lovely I want to lick the screen... yum. I'm gonna visit again tomorrow and read!
anikken says
these look amazing. have to try making these at some point:)
the French Coast says
scrumptuous!
shil says
yummy
Victoria says
These look absolutley beautiful and delicious! Best Wishes!
arasyidash says
looks like a mini sandwich ^-^
battery-replace-shop says
it looks very delicious
Rizal says
look delicious
nissamutia says
i love you blog! follow it! :D
bestcoastmama says
Beautiful photography! And you have inspired me to bake again!
Christine says
Oh my. Yum! And, of course, gorgeous.
Tim Toady says
yummy!
Kass says
Oh My YUM!!! Those sound heavenly!
listindian says
Its so tempting. I like it
laurara90 says
Reblogged this on laurara90 and commented:
Love this:)
Surena says
Omg! Yum! Thanks I will def try my hand at these. They are so cute!
Ernizah says
Reblogged this on Dkernizah's Blog and commented:
awwwww :)))
Deira says
These look fantastic! I have just got onto the lavender-as-food bandwagon and have to say it tastes amazing, but lavender in a macaron sounds far too delicious. Your photos look gorgeous and I love your writing style :)
photos4share says
Reblogged this on photos4share and commented:
Great information. Like it
happygoluckygal says
wow..love the colour:)
triviamania says
Looks awesome and delicious yum yum!
kasaragodan says
great job
omeletta says
These look delicious! Macarons can be such a painful task but are soooo worth the effort. The last time I made them they were hideous but so tasty :) And lavender, yum! Love your blog!
Valerie {all mussed up} says
The lavender takes the already dainty macarons to a whole new level of classy -- so lovely! I love ultra-feminine treats like this. I hope your wedding shower was lovely, too!
Patricia Awapara says
looks great! thanks for the recipe!
ephesians413 says
They look lovely! But it looks like a lot of work!
missjy86 says
these look absolutely amazing!
avocadoandbasil says
Oh wow, these look devine.
declanwhite says
They look delicious :-) 2 bites?! Those dainties are a one-bite job for me :-D a pop, a crunch, and a swallow, a salivating rinse and repeat, ad infinitum! I could get more than one in my mouth. As you can see, I'd like to eat these in private. Public consumption would draw attention and perhaps an arrest for oral disorderliness!
segmation says
Hi Ashley, I can't wait to try this recipe out!! Your digital pictures of are so awesome. http://www.segmation.wordpress.com
practicalgal says
Omg. Looks amazing. I've had a lavender macaron only once and it def didn't look as lovely or delish as yours. It looks a bit intimidating but will have to try it one day. :-)
tallie99 says
Oh wow they look absolutely delicious!
Buchu Abunai says
I am literally drooling right now
thetravelingpear says
I'm going to have to share these with my Chef...he loves making Parisienne Macarons (tricky little devils) and I love eating them! Beautiful.
fairasta says
You have a gorgeous writing style! :) It makes reading your blog so smooth!
These look amazing. Was it really your first time making macaroons? :O I need to try them out, and then immediately put myself on a diet xD
Congrats on the wedding shower!!! :)
Ashley says
Thank you so much! Yes, it was truly my first time making macarons -- I think we just got lucky :)
ukagwu says
Oh.. my.. mouth watering!!!
Tanya in Transition says
Reblogged this on Tanya in Transition and commented:
Lavender is in bloom in Provence. What better time to whip up a batch or two of these lavender macarons?
crisgzr says
oh dear, these are just lovely---they take my breath away!
Eagle-Eyed Editor says
These are a work of art! YUM!
Lotto Results says
Looks great. I believe it will taste good as well or else your post wouldn't get freshly pressed!
Kate Burrows says
those look gorgeous, even more spectacular than the french macaroons i am enjoying here in amboise! take a look at my blog to see my journeys around France :)
one4luck says
I don't even eat Macaroons and I'd try these!!
Saudi Prices Blog says
nicely decorated, great recipe
aureliad says
I'm vegan, but these still look positively gorgeous. I can practically smell the lavender from way over here!
Modern Funk says
Little edible works of art!
secretlifeofapsychologyteacher says
These look epic! I love lavender flavoured things. I'm going to have to investigate making these on a rainy Sunday afternoon.
Marcella Rousseau says
Good looking cookie!
Keren says
If patience is a Lavender Macaron then memory is a Madeline Cookie!
http://thewalkup.wordpress.com/
mikaelalarson says
They only time I tried to make macarons, they came out with little peaks that never sank. Any clue what the problem was? So good job, these look fab!
Ashley says
I think it's all in making sure your batter reaches a shiny ribbon consistency before piping; however, we had some difficulty with that and had to swipe a few peaks off with a metal spatula ;)
baki says
looks so pretty!
Kristin says
These look absolutely delicious! I will DEFINITELY be attempting them. yum!
spoon&sailor letterpress says
ummmm, these are getting made as soon as is humanly possible! thanks so much for sharing...xo.
neverstoptravelling says
so yummyyy...
littlemissannie3 says
These look so nice! I once tried to make macaroons and I failed miserably, but now I think I shall try again using this recipe :)
Ben Knotts says
Alright - I am always cooking for my wife, and not every time turns out very well, as you can see here (http://benknotts.wordpress.com/2012/05/25/i-burnt-amandas-dinner-for-the-first-time-ever/) But this will definitely be attempted! lol
Keep it up! :)
juststartwithmonday says
OMG....I feel like rushing to the store to buy all the ingredients. These look amazing.
Thanks for sharing. You Matter! Smiles, Nancy
ahodgepodgeblog says
I've never had macaroons before, mostly because I've never seen them sold any where in the NYC area. Hopefully when I try this it'll be close to what I dream it should taste like.
eesh says
Gorgeous! I will definitely have to make these.
AJ's Mom says
I love lavender and I love macarons! and it's called Patience? Even better! A delicious post. Thank you for sharing.
P.S. Love from Sunny UK,
AJ's Mom
maxthehandyman says
Oh my these look tasty. Great photos! Congratulations on Fresh Pressed
Olya says
I once had a delicious Lavender Honey martini and I since have not been able to get the flavor combination out of my head and always try to brainstorm dishes to use these flavors. I was JUST thinking about how a macaron could be an interesting experiment. I had to make macarons 3 times before I got it right (http://saidtheflowertotheflour.wordpress.com/2012/01/31/to-do-1-channel-the-inner-better-version-of-myself/). Maybe a lemon filling would work too? Can't wait to try this recipe. Thanks for sharing!
Susana's Magic Touch says
I think anything made with lavender is interesting and different! I first learned how delightful this was last summer when I visited an herb farm and they made scones and other goodies with lavender! Yummm! Thanks for sharing!
zoetic * epics says
FANTASTIC PHOTOS!
susielindau says
I have a yard full of lavender and would love to try these! I don't think it seems too time consuming. One time I went to a French cake class and after we got to step 26 I asked, "How many hours does it take to bake this thing?"
Congrats on being Freshly Pressed! Enjoy the ride!
Washington, DC says
I so need a lavender macaron in my life NOW!
Emily says
They look absolutely yummy and the photos are gorgeous! And, congrats on being freshly pressed!
drivelology says
WOW!
They look amazing! I'm very new to making macarons but I will certainly be giving these a go.
enyouknowthis says
Reblogged this on soul sessions, can I get some of you? and commented:
i cant wait to try this!
Ashley says
Thank you so much!
gayatrimohan says
Looks so good!
astimegoesbuy says
I love making macarons!
Yesterday I made chocolate chilli mini versions.
Even though I am not the most patient person for some reason the exactness of the recipe and process is very comforting...must be OCD! :)
How lovely that you and your mum made them for a special event in your life.
Cheers,
Laura
iszneihlar says
Reblogged this on iszneihlar.
linaipanema says
awesome!
www.macuisineetvous.com says
nice pics, nice recipe
thanks
Chantal
just add honey says
two bites of heaven!
I can't wait to try this recipe!
backpackerina says
They do look too good to be true!
Arnav says
YUUUMMY! :D
http://journeythroughhtml.wordpress.com
accidentallyinluv says
I tried to make macaron's once, and they turned out to be a complete disaster ! I am glad that you are having more luck !
thesaltygoat says
Stunning Photography and I'm sure they would taste amazing...congrats :)
hipoptimist says
I have been looking for a new lavender recipe for ages - thank you!
Janet Childs ツ says
Just planted lavender in the garden. Can't wait to harvest and try our lavender macarons. Thanks for the recipe!
Cintana says
awesome..thank you for the recipe...can't wait to try
Big Hungry Gnomes says
Your macaroons look absolutely stunning and the lavender flavours sounds like the perfect idea for an elegant and romantic bridal shower. Thanks for sharing the wonderful recipe
Liz Lobster says
WOW! These look unbelievable! I totally underestimated macaroons, didn't event want to try one for a long time. But since I've had a taste recently, I've been hooked!
The lavender version seems divine!
Lindsey says
These look amazing. Honestly I didn't get the macaron craze until just the other day when I had my first taste. I get it now :) Also just tried this recipe and now understand the title of your post!
maryduranteyoutt says
When I get some spare time and a dose of patience, I will try this recipe. They look wonderful. Great photos and writing. Congrats on being freshly pressed and on your upcoming wedding.
Allen says
While these are beautiful and certainly flavorful, they're not vegan. The use of egg whites and cream cheese does not fit in line with your vegan blog.
Just sayin'.
Ashley says
Hi Allen, thanks for commenting and for the sweet words.
As for these being vegan, I definitely know they are not vegan. If you read through my facts page and back through my posts you'll see that for the first three years my blog and I were both vegetarian. It wasn't until this past fall that my blog recipes transitioned to vegan and then I officially did earlier this year. I appreciate your inquiry but if you reread this post and the associated tags you'll notice that I never said anything about these macarons being vegan.