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### Dark Almond Macarons Covered with Pine Nuts: A Sweet, Crunchy Delight
#### Introduction
Dark almond macarons covered with pine nuts are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of almonds with the nutty crunch of pine nuts. These cookies not only look beautiful but also taste exquisite, making them perfect for special occasions or as an everyday snack. In this guide, we'll walk you through every step to create these delicious macarons.
#### Ingredients
- 250g almond flour (or ground almonds)
- 120g granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- Egg whites from 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 40g pine nuts, lightly toasted and finely chopped
#### Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula or silicone offset spatula
- Sifter or sieve
- Pastry bag with a round tip (about 1/2 inch in diameter)
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Baking sheet
#### Preparation Steps
1. **Preheat Your Oven**
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. **Prepare the Almond Flour Mixture**
In a large bowl, sift together the almond flour and granulated sugar until well combined. Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor. Mix gently to avoid overmixing.
3. **Separate Egg Whites**
Carefully separate 3 egg whites from the yolks. Make sure there’s no yolk in the egg whites as this can prevent them from whipping properly.
4. **Whip the Egg Whites**
Using a clean mixing bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add a pinch of sugar and continue to whip until stiff peaks form. The meringue should be glossy and firm when you touch it with your finger.
5. **Fold in the Meringue**
Fold 1/3 of the whipped egg white into the almond flour mixture gently but thoroughly. Then, fold in the remaining egg whites in two stages to fully incorporate them without deflating the meringue too much.
6. **Prepare the Macarons**
Scoop the batter onto a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small rounds of dough (about 2 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for expansion during baking.
7. **Bloom the Macarons**
Let the macarons sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes until a skin forms on top. This process is called blooming and helps the cookies develop their signature foot or 'footprint'.
8. **Bake the Macarons**
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even baking.
9. **Cool and Cover with Pine Nuts**
Once baked, allow the macarons to cool completely on a wire rack. Carefully place the pine nuts over one half of each macaron for an instant festive touch. Let them set before serving or storing in an airtight container.
#### Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the best texture.
- Toasting the pine nuts enhances their flavor, making it a key step in this recipe.
- For a perfect finish, use a piping bag fitted with a round tip to create consistent macaron shapes.
By following these detailed steps and tips, you can enjoy crafting your very own dark almond macarons covered in crunchy pine nuts. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making them a must-try for any baking enthusiast or as a special treat for friends and family.