Homemade Macarons & Ice Cream – The Perfect Pairing For Mother’s Day

Learn how to make delicate, crisp macarons and discover delicious flavour combinations with creamy, homemade ice cream for an extra special treat Mum will love.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with the perfect pairing – homemade macarons and ice cream!

There’s something about Mother’s Day that always has me searching for the perfect homemade treat – something a little extra special, a little luxurious, and, of course, delicious. While cakes, chocolates, and scones are always wonderful, I wanted something with that je ne sais quoi – that elegant touch that I can create to make Mum feel truly cherished.

And that’s when I thought of macarons. These delicate, airy, and beautifully coloured French treats feel like they belong in a Parisian café, with their crisp shell and soft, chewy centre. They’re as pretty as they are delicious, making them a wonderful gift or showstopping dessert for Mother’s Day or any occasion in fact.

But why stop at just macarons? Pairing them with homemade ice cream takes them to a whole new level – soft, crisp, creamy, and utterly indulgent. Whether you serve them as mini ice cream sandwiches or simply as a perfect accompaniment to a scoop of delicious homemade ice cream, this combination is one Mum will remember.

In this article we’ll share a little history on the origin of Macarons, some information on different flavour pairings and of course, we’ll share our recipe and step-by-step guide for you to learn how to create these delicious desserts yourself. If you’d like to go straight to the recipe, please use the following link, or read along with us to find it more.

A Brief History of Macarons

Macarons may be synonymous with Paris, but their origins actually trace back to Italy.

They were brought to France in the 16th century by Catherine de’ Medici, an Italian noblewoman who later became Queen of France. The version we know today – two delicate almond meringue shells filled with a silky ganache, buttercream, or jam – was perfected in 19th-century France, particularly by the famous Parisian patisserie Ladurée.

What makes macarons so special? It’s not just their crisp yet chewy texture – it’s their stunning range of colours and flavours. From pastel pink raspberry to deep chocolate truffle, macarons can be customised in endless ways, making them a beautiful and thoughtful gift at any time, but even more so for Mum on Mother’s Day.

Have we enticed you enough yet to want to make your own?

Homemade Macaron Recipe

Making macarons might seem intimidating, but the method is actually quite simple, even for beginners. But, like with any pastry, precision is key, so following the instructions closely will give you the best results.

The base of a macaron is super simple – just egg whites, sugar, and ground almonds. But where the magic happens is in the colouring and flavouring!

Whether you keep them classic and elegant or go bold with vibrant hues and creative fillings, macarons offer endless possibilities to make them your own.

👉🏽 Pro Tip: As this recipe calls for egg whites only, put your egg yolks aside to make your custard-based ice cream. Head over to our article – How to Make Delicious, Indulgent, Homemade Ice Cream – which provides details on an egg-less ice cream base and an egg ice cream base.

Let’s get started!

(Prep Time: 30 minutes, Resting Time: 30 minutes, Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes)

Ingredients

For the macaron shells:

• 120g icing sugar
• 120g ground almonds
• 100g egg whites (about 3 large eggs), at room temperature
• 100g caster sugar
• ½ tsp cream of tartar (optional, for stability)
• Gel food colouring (optional)

For the filling (classic vanilla buttercream):

• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 150g icing sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp double cream (if needed, to loosen the buttercream)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Macaron Shells

1. Line two baking trays with non-stick baking paper or a silicone macaron mat.
2. Sift the icing sugar and ground almonds together into a bowl. Discard any larger almond pieces.
3. In a clean, grease-free bowl, whisk the egg whites until they turn frothy. Add the cream of tartar (if using), then gradually add the caster sugar, whisking until you have stiff, glossy peaks.
4. If using food colouring, add it now and fold gently to combine.

Step 2: Macaronage (Folding the Mixture)

1. Gradually fold the almond mixture into the egg whites using a spatula.
2. The batter should be smooth, shiny, and flow like lava when lifted with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix.

Pro Tip: What I do is prepare my base macaron mix, then separate it into 3 or 4 bowls, to which I’ll add the final flavourings and colours, that way I don’t have too many of one flavour (as if you can ever have too many), and I can prepare a selection of flavours at the same time.

Step 3: Piping & Resting

1. Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round nozzle.
2. Pipe small circles, about 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in diameter, onto the baking trays, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each macaron.
3. Tap the trays firmly on the worktop a few times to release air bubbles.
4. Let the macarons rest for 30 minutes until a skin forms (they should not be sticky to the touch).

Step 4: Baking & Assembling

1. Preheat the oven to 150°C (130°C fan) / 300°F / Gas Mark 2.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the macarons have risen and developed their classic “feet” – the ruffled, slightly raised edges at the base of each shell. This happens when the tops have set, allowing the batter to rise evenly in the oven.
3. The macarons are done when they feel firm to the touch and don’t shift when gently nudged. If they’re still wobbly, bake for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking tray before peeling them off the parchment paper or silicone mat. This prevents them from sticking or breaking.

Step 5: Making the Buttercream & Filling

1. Beat the butter until pale and fluffy. Gradually add icing sugar and vanilla extract.
2. Pipe or spoon the filling onto one macaron shell and sandwich with another.
3. Store in the fridge for 24 hours before eating for the best texture.

👉🏽 Click on the following useful link for a selection of piping bags, silicone macaron sheets and all the colouring you might need to make macarons at home – Macaron Making Accessories

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means that we may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Macaron Ice Cream Sandwiches – A Delicious Twist!

Of course, you can stick with boring buttercream if you want, lol, but why not take your Macarons up a level by filling them with ice cream?

While macarons are traditionally filled with buttercream, ganache, or jam, opting for ice cream gives them an entirely different layer of taste, texture, and coolness!

The contrast between the crisp, chewy macaron shells and the smooth, creamy ice cream creates a heavenly bite-sized treat – perfect for Mother’s Day!

How to Make Macaron Ice Cream Sandwiches

This is where it gets fun and creative! Here’s your chance to truly personalise these treats for Mother’s Day.

Take inspiration from your mum’s favourite flavours and colours, and customise her macarons to match.

My mum loves Brussels sprouts, and it has crossed my mind to try out a Brussels Sprout Ice Cream… but even I have to admit that my experimental tendencies might be going a bit too far with that one! 😂

Although I should never say never, you can’t knock it if you don’t try it right? Perhaps Brussels Sprouts Ice Cream could be the next big thing in gourmet flavours!

But for now, let’s stick to some delicious and elegant flavour pairings that Mums everywhere are going to love!

1. Choose Your Macaron & Ice Cream Pairing

Macarons offer endless possibilities when it comes to flavour pairings, allowing you to experiment with a wide range of creative and delicious combinations.

Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

• Vanilla Macarons + Strawberry & Basil Ice Cream: Fresh vanilla complements the fruity strawberry, while basil adds an unexpected herbal twist
• Chocolate Macarons + Salted Caramel Ice Cream: Rich chocolate balances the sweet-salty caramel for an indulgent experience
• Lemon Macarons + Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream: Zesty lemon enhances the tart raspberry, creating a tangy and refreshing combination
• Pistachio Macarons + Honey & Lavender Ice Cream: Nutty pistachio pairs beautifully with floral lavender, while honey adds a touch of sweetness
• Coffee Macarons + Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Bold coffee flavours are softened by creamy vanilla, resulting in a sophisticated and balanced treat

• Vanilla Macarons + Strawberry & Basil Ice Cream: The fresh, fruity notes complement the delicate vanilla
• Lavender Macarons + Honey Ice Cream: Floral notes enhance the natural sweetness of honey
• Matcha Macarons + Black Sesame Ice Cream: Earthy matcha complements nutty sesame
• Coconut Macarons + Mango or Pineapple Ice Cream: Tropical flavours create a refreshing combination

2. Prepare Your Macarons

• Bake your macarons as per the recipe above and let them cool completely before filling.
• For best results, use slightly larger macarons than usual. Pipe them about 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm) in diameter, which is approximately 1 cm wider than the standard size, to better accommodate the ice cream filling. This adjustment will ensure your macaron shells are large enough to create perfect ice cream sandwiches

3. Soften the Ice Cream

• Take your chosen ice cream out of the freezer for 5-10 minutes until it’s slightly softened but not melting.
• If using homemade ice cream, churn it and let it firm up for at least 4 hours before scooping.

4. Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Place one macaron shell flat-side up on a tray.
• Scoop or pipe a generous layer of ice cream onto the macaron base. (A piping bag can help create an even, round shape!)
• Gently press another macaron shell on top to create a sandwich.

5. Freeze to Set

• Arrange your macaron ice cream sandwiches on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.
• If making them in advance, wrap each sandwich individually in baking paper or cling film and store in an airtight container for up to a week.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

• For an extra fancy touch, roll the edges in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips before freezing.
• Serve them straight from the freezer for a refreshing, elegant Mother’s Day treat!

Serving Tip:

Let the sandwiches sit for 2-3 minutes at room temperature before serving so the ice cream softens slightly for the perfect bite. Serve with a small dessert fork or simply enjoy them as elegant finger food!

Troubleshooting Guide for Making Macarons

While macarons are a deliciously elegant treat, they can be a bit finicky to make.

Here’s a troubleshooting guide to help you overcome common challenges and ensure your macarons turn out perfectly every time.

Cracked Shells:

• Possible causes: Too much air in the shell, high humidity, shells weren’t rested, weak meringue, or high oven temperature
• Solutions: Tap the baking sheet after piping, rest shells until they develop a skin, ensure a stable meringue, and use an oven thermometer to check the temperature

Hollow Shells

• Possible causes: Issues with meringue, over-mixed batter, improper piping technique, or incorrect oven temperature
• Solutions: Ensure proper meringue consistency, avoid over-mixing, and adjust oven temperature as needed

No Feet

• Possible causes: Wet batter, humid weather, weak meringue, over-mixed batter, or incorrect resting time
• Solutions: Reduce liquid ingredients, age egg whites in humid climates, whip meringue to stiff peaks, and rest shells until they form a skin

Lopsided Macarons

• Possible causes: Poor air circulation, improper piping technique, or over-drying
• Solutions: Ensure even heat distribution, pipe shells straight down at 90°, and avoid over-drying

How to Serve Macaron Ice Cream Sandwiches in Style

Presentation is everything when it comes to a truly special homemade treat.

Instead of simply serving your macaron ice cream sandwiches on a plate, why not create a stunning dessert board that feels as indulgent as it tastes?

Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich Dessert Board

Arrange your ice cream sandwiches on a chilled serving platter or a wooden board lined with parchment paper. Then, add some elegant finishing touches:

• Fresh berries – Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries add a vibrant pop of colour and a refreshing contrast to the rich ice cream.
• Chocolate drizzle – Melt some dark, milk, or white chocolate and lightly drizzle over the sandwiches for an extra decadent touch.
• Honey or caramel drizzle – A swirl of honey or salted caramel sauce on the board makes each bite even more indulgent.
• Edible flowers – Delicate blooms like violets, pansies, or rose petals bring a touch of elegance to the presentation.
• Crushed nuts or biscuit crumbs – Roll the edges of your sandwiches in crushed pistachios, almonds, or shortbread crumbs for added texture.
• Gold leaf or edible glitter – If you really want to make Mum feel extra special, a little edible gold leaf or a dusting of edible glitter adds a luxurious finishing touch!

Some Other Presentation Ideas

• Macaron Tower: Stack macarons in a conical shape for an impressive centrepiece
• Individual Serving Plates: Place a macaron ice cream sandwich on a small, elegant plate with a sprinkle of crushed nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar
• Glass Jar Parfaits: Layer crumbled macarons with ice cream and toppings in clear glass jars for a visually appealing dessert
• Macaron “Sliders”: Serve mini macaron ice cream sandwiches on a long, narrow platter for a fun, bite-sized presentation

Remember to consider colour coordination and complementary flavours when creating your macaron ice cream sandwich presentations for maximum visual and taste appeal.

Storage Guidelines

Macarons with Buttercream:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days
• Best consumed within the first 2-4 days for optimal texture and flavour

Macarons with Ice Cream:

• Assemble and freeze immediately
• Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month
• Let sit at room temperature for 2-3 minutes before serving for the perfect texture

The Final Scoop

Macarons are an elegant, handmade treat that makes Mother’s Day, or in fact any event truly special. Paired with homemade ice cream, they offer the perfect balance of delicate crunch, smooth creaminess, and indulgent flavour – plus that irresistible contrast between crisp macaron shells and the cool, velvety chill of ice cream.

Whether you gift a box of pastel macarons or serve them alongside a beautifully plated dessert, this is a homemade surprise that Mum will adore.

👉🏽 Which macaron & ice cream pairing would you love to try? Aside from Brussel Sprout Ice Cream & Parmesan Tuile Macarons, lol.

👉🏽 Have you ever made homemade macarons before? Let us know in the comments below, We’d love to hear from you.

We hope that you have enjoyed our article – Homemade Macarons & Ice Cream – The Perfect Pairing For Mother’s Day – and that we have given you some inspiration for your Mother’s Day celebrationIf you have any questions, please drop us a comment below and we will be happy to get back to you.

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