Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons You’ll Love
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Alma
There s a delightful moment when you tear into a macaron for the first time; the crispy shell gives way to a soft, luscious filling that s simply irresistible. Now, imagine that moment amplified with layers of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. That’s exactly what these Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons bring to your baking repertoire!
I discovered this recipe during one of those rainy afternoons when I was craving something sweet yet sophisticated. After a few failed attempts at perfecting the classic French treat, I finally landed on a version that combines the heavenly duo of chocolate and peanut butter. It s a deliciously addictive treat that manages to impress without requiring the finesse of a trained pastry chef.
In just over an hour, you can create these enchanting treats that become the star of any dessert table, from cozy family gatherings to elegant soir es. So, let s dive into making these delightful chocolate and peanut butter wonders that bring joy with every bite!
Why are Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons a must-try?
Decadent flavors harmonize perfectly with the rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, creating a flavor explosion. Impressive yet surprisingly simple, these macarons will have your guests wondering about your baking prowess. Customizable to your taste try adding different fillings or toppings! Elegant in presentation, they elevate any dessert table. Time-efficient, you’ll whip these up in just over an hour, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Macaron Ingredients
For the Macarons
100 grams egg whites ensure they re at room temperature for better volume.
100 grams granulated sugar helps stabilize the egg whites for a perfect meringue.
100 grams almond flour use finely ground for a smoother texture.
100 grams powdered sugar adds sweetness and smoothness to the macaron shells.
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder gives these macarons their rich chocolate flavor.
For the Peanut Butter Filling
1/4 cup butter softened, to achieve a light and fluffy filling.
1/3 cup peanut butter creamy varieties work best for a smooth consistency.
1 cup powdered sugar to sweeten and thicken the filling to perfection.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
1/4 teaspoon salt balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
Feel the excitement building for these Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons as you gather your ingredients, and let s create something irresistible!
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Preheat your oven to 300 °F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help ensure your macarons bake evenly and don’t stick. Set the baking sheets aside for later.
Create a double boiler by heating a small pot of water over medium heat until it steams. In a stand mixer bowl, combine egg whites and granulated sugar. Place this bowl over the steaming pot.
Whisk the egg whites and sugar until the sugar melts and the mixture turns white and frothy, which takes about 1 to 1.5 minutes. Remove from heat and return the bowl to the stand mixer.
Whip on high speed, using the whisk attachment for 2-3 minutes, until stiff peaks form. This will give your macarons their wonderful chewy texture.
Sift together almond flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar in a separate bowl. Gently fold this mixture into the meringue until just combined.
Mix on medium speed for 10 seconds. Check the batter’s consistency by drawing a figure-eight; if it breaks, mix for another 5-10 seconds until it flows smoothly.
Scoop the batter into a large pastry bag fitted with a 1-inch tip. Pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheets, giving each about 1.5 inches of space.
Bang the baking sheets on the counter two times to release air bubbles. Bake for 13 minutes, turning halfway through, then allow the macarons to cool completely on the sheets.
Prepare the peanut butter filling while the macarons are baking. Beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until fully combined. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, and mix until fluffy.
Pipe the peanut butter filling onto half of the macarons and sandwich them with the remaining shells. Press down gently to spread the filling evenly.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped peanuts for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
Room Temperature: Macarons can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container, preserving their texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure to place them in an airtight container to maintain their delicate crunch.
Freezer: To freeze your Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can last for up to 3 months, keeping their delightful taste.
Reheating: If you prefer them slightly warmed, let them thaw at room temperature and enjoy their chewy texture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can alter their consistency.
What to Serve with Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons?
Imagine a delightful dessert experience that complements the sweet, nutty flavors of these French treats.
Rich Coffee: The deep, bold flavor of coffee enhances the chocolate and peanut butter notes delightfully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Smooth and creamy, this classic scoop balances these macarons beautifully, adding a refreshing touch.
Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries provides a vibrant contrast, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce brings an extra layer of decadence that chocolate lovers will adore.
Nutty Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel with a hint of salt ties in with the peanut butter, creating a blissful combination.
Herbal Tea: A calming herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, offers a refreshing finish to this sweet treat.
Sparkling Wine: A light sparkling wine adds an elegant touch to your dessert table, making every bite feel like a celebration.
Malted Milkshake: The creamy texture of a malted milkshake pairs beautifully with macarons, amplifying their sweet charm for a nostalgic treat.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake them as directed, allow them to cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The peanut butter filling can also be made ahead; store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you re ready to assemble, just let the filling come to room temperature before piping it between the macaron shells. Following these make-ahead tips will ensure that your macarons taste just as delicious, providing you with a delightful treat with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Tips for the Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons
- Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better whipping and stable meringue. Cold eggs prevent proper volume.
- Gentle Folding: When combining dry ingredients with the meringue, fold gently to maintain airiness, crucial for that classic macaron texture.
- Figure-Eight Test: Always test your batter by creating a figure-eight. If the batter breaks, continue mixing a bit longer for ideal consistency.
- Avoid Overmixing: After reaching the right consistency, stop mixing to prevent deflating the precious air bubbles, which can result in flat macarons.
- Cooling Time: Allow macarons to cool completely before removing from sheets to avoid breakage. Patience here ensures perfect presentation.
- Creative Fillings: Experiment with different flavors of fillings like chocolate ganache or fruit preserves for a delightful twist on your Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Macaron Variations
Feel free to personalize these macarons with your favorite flavors and textures for an even more delightful treat!
Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with oat flour or finely ground sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Vegan: Use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) instead of egg whites, and replace butter with coconut oil in the filling. The result is just as scrumptious, with a lovely plant-based twist.
Dairy-Free: Opt for non-dairy butters and chocolate, allowing everyone to enjoy these indulgent sweets without dairy.
Flavor Infusion: Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the meringue for a mocha variation that enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness perfect for adventurous palates!
Minty Fresh: Mix in a few drops of mint extract to the peanut butter filling for a refreshing mint chocolate twist.
Fruit Filling: Swap the peanut butter filling for a raspberry or strawberry jam, giving a fruity and tangy contrast to the rich chocolate shell.
Decorative Touch: Top your macarons with finely chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or a drizzle of white chocolate for an added decorative and tasty element!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my eggs are fresh enough for macarons?
Absolutely! Fresh eggs create a more stable meringue. Look for eggs that are not past their expiration date and avoid any that have a distinct odor or dark spots. If possible, use room temperature eggs, as they whip better and contribute to a lighter texture.
How should I store my Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons?
You can keep your macarons at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but they ll stay fresh for up to 1 week when refrigerated. Ensure they re in a sealed container to prevent them from absorbing any odors from your fridge!
Can I freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons?
Yes! To freeze your macarons, wrap each one separately in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for an hour before devouring!
What do I do if my macaron shells are cracked?
Very often, cracked shells are due to overmixing or too high of an oven temperature. To prevent this, make sure you mix the batter just until it reaches the right consistency and try using an oven thermometer for accuracy. Also, ensure you bang the baking tray firmly to release air bubbles before baking.
Are Chocolate Peanut Butter Macarons safe for pets?
It’s best to keep these delicious macarons away from pets, especially because of the peanut butter, which can be an allergen for some animals. Additionally, chocolate is toxic to pets, so ensure these treats are out of reach to keep your furry friends safe.
What is the best way to fix dry macaron shells?
If your macaron shells turn out dry, it could be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the batter. To remedy this in future attempts, use a kitchen scale for precise measurements and check your oven temperature frequently. When baking, aim for a slight chewiness in the center of the shells.