Name: Lemon Macarons Bright, Zesty & Delightfully Elegant!
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 90 g almond flour; 150 g powdered sugar; 100 g egg whites (aged at room temp); 100 g granulated sugar; 1 4 tsp cream of tartar; 1 tsp lemon zest (for shells); Yellow gel food coloring (a small amount); 115 g unsalted butter (softened); 200 g powdered sugar (for filling); 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest (for filling)

These lemon macarons are the very definition of sunshine in a bite. With their delicate shells and silky lemon buttercream, they bring together the lightness of a French treat and the punchy brightness of citrus. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying macarons for the first time, this recipe delivers elegance and flavor in one irresistible package.

Each bite offers a crisp exterior that melts into a chewy, almond-rich middle, balanced perfectly with a zesty lemon filling that tingles your taste buds. They make a stunning addition to any spring brunch, shower spread, or teatime table, and they freeze beautifully for make-ahead occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Macarons Recipe

Lemon lovers rejoice: these macarons don’t hold back. The bold lemon flavor comes through in both the shell and the filling, thanks to lemon zest and fresh juice. But more than just flavor, the texture is dreamy—a delicate crunch that gives way to soft, fragrant almond layers. They’re not overly sweet, which allows the citrus to shine.

Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and totally show-stopping when arranged on a dessert tray. Once you’ve mastered the basic method, they become quite fun to whip up for holidays, gifts, or whenever you want a sweet pick-me-up.

What Kind of Almond Flour Should I Use?

When it comes to macarons, almond flour quality is everything. Choose blanched almond flour that is super fine and free of skins. Coarse or unblanched almond flour can create a gritty texture and uneven tops. If you’re unsure, you can always pulse your almond flour with powdered sugar in a food processor and sift well before use. It’s a little extra effort but ensures a smooth, bakery-style finish.

Ingredients for the Lemon Macarons

Great macarons are made from simple ingredients with big results. Each component plays a vital role in getting those signature feet and chewy interiors.

Almond flour gives macarons their iconic nutty flavor and tender texture.

Powdered sugar adds sweetness and helps to create that smooth top and soft chew.

Egg whites are the backbone of the meringue; they need to be aged at room temperature for best results.

Granulated sugar stabilizes the egg whites as they whip into stiff peaks.

Cream of tartar helps maintain structure and prevents over-whipping.

Lemon zest infuses the shell with bright, natural citrus aroma.

Yellow gel food coloring gives that lovely lemon hue without adding moisture (liquid colorings are not recommended).

Unsalted butter is the base of the filling, creating a rich, creamy lemon buttercream.

Fresh lemon juice brings the tangy zing in the filling that balances the sweetness.

How To Make the Lemon Macarons

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by weighing all your ingredients with a kitchen scale for accuracy. Line baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats, and prepare your piping bag with a round tip.

Step 2: Sift and Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar. If needed, pulse them in a food processor to ensure a fine consistency, then sift to remove any lumps.

Step 3: Make the Meringue

Whip the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and gradually add the granulated sugar. Continue whipping until stiff, glossy peaks form. Add lemon zest and a small amount of yellow gel coloring at the end.

Step 4: Macaronage

Fold the dry mixture into the meringue in thirds. Use a spatula to fold and press the batter against the side of the bowl to deflate slightly. The mixture should flow like lava and form ribbons.

Step 5: Pipe and Rest

Pipe 1.5-inch rounds onto your baking sheets, spacing them evenly. Tap the trays firmly to release air bubbles. Let the macarons rest at room temperature until a skin forms, about 30–60 minutes. They should not stick to your finger when touched lightly.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15–18 minutes. The macarons should rise with feet and not brown. Cool completely before removing.

Step 7: Make the Filling

Beat unsalted butter until light and fluffy, then add powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and zest. Whip until creamy and smooth.

Step 8: Assemble

Match shells by size. Pipe a dollop of buttercream on one shell and gently sandwich with another. Let them mature in the fridge for 24 hours for best flavor and texture.

How to Serve and Store These Lemon Macarons

These lemon macarons are best served chilled but not cold. Allow them to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before enjoying so the filling softens slightly. Their delicate crunch and chewy center are most pronounced when slightly temperate.

You can store filled macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze them for up to a month. If freezing, thaw in the fridge overnight to maintain texture. This recipe makes about 20 finished macarons, perfect for a small gathering or to give as sweet little gifts.

What to Serve With Lemon Macarons?

Earl Grey Tea

The floral citrus notes in Earl Grey complement lemon macarons beautifully without overpowering their flavor.

Raspberry Sorbet

The tartness of raspberry adds a contrast that enhances the sweetness and brightness of the macarons.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

A scoop of classic vanilla bean ice cream turns this into a plated dessert worthy of any celebration.

Blueberry Compote

Spoon over your plate or serve in a little dish alongside for a fruity pairing.

Sparkling Lemonade

Serve chilled macarons with sparkling lemonade for a light and bubbly afternoon treat.

Lemon Curd Tartlets

If you’re going all in on citrus, pair with mini lemon tartlets for a citrus-themed dessert board.

Prosecco

Hosting brunch or a celebration? A glass of Prosecco makes the moment extra special.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

For a savory counterpart, this pasta dish balances out a dessert-heavy menu beautifully [https://janetdishes.com/creamy-tomato-spinach-pasta/].

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Citrus Kick?

If these lemon macarons brighten your day, you might fall in love with these other lemony delights:

Lemon Truffles Recipe for creamy, bite-sized indulgence.
Baby Lemon Impossible Pies that magically form their own crust.
Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon Recipe when you want to bring lemon to your main dish.
Classic French Butter Cookies for something buttery to pair alongside.
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake if you’re craving a rich, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go bright yellow or keep it natural? Did you try lemon curd instead of buttercream?

I love seeing how others customize these dainty treats. Drop your questions too—macaron-making can be a journey worth sharing.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and vibrant desserts on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next sweet obsession.

Conclusion

These lemon macarons are a celebration of elegance and zing. With the right technique and a bit of patience, you’ll create something bakery-worthy right in your kitchen. Their cheerful color and bright citrus flavor make them ideal for spring, celebrations, or just because. Whether you’re sharing them or savoring one with a cup of tea, they’re guaranteed to lift spirits and satisfy cravings.