How to Make Macarons | Bake It Up a Notch with Erin McDowell

It's the episode you've been waiting for: Macarons. These classic French cookies are considered a rite of passage for bakers, and as usual, Erin is here to tell you about the tools you'll need to make them, to teach you the technique, offer tips and tricks, and tell you how to avoid common mistakes that can happen. And she's Baking It Up a whole lot of Notches with more than a dozen variations on the classic cookies. GET THE RECIPES ►► f52.co/3uOgXAm
Double Chocolate Macarons (Variations: Vanilla Bean Macarons, Fruity Macarons, Spiced Macarons): f52.co/3x2zIlp
Giant Bakery Style Macarons (Variations: Ice Cream Sandwiches, S’mores, Iced Cookies): f52.co/3x0Pld6
Sprinkle Macaron “Cake” and Giant Macaron: f52.co/3e6BCsF
Neapolitan Macaron Towers: f52.co/3ai0GvF
Malted Chocolate-Caramel Easter Egg Macarons: f52.co/3twyuNm
Peachy Macarons: f52.co/32pUm0A
Also featured in this video
KitchenAid Artisan Series Tilt Head Stand Mixer, 5QT: f52.co/3ua4edW
GIR Silicone Spatulas: f52.co/3NNfN2s
de Buyer Reusable Piping Bags (Set of 3): f52.co/3CdArDb
de Buyer Stainless Steel Pastry Tips (Set of 26): f52.co/3vzUQB8
Looking for something specific?
VIDEO CHAPTERS:
0:00:00 Intro
0:01:31 Tools You Can Use
0:04:33 Our (Mini!) Ingredient List
0:07:07 Making the Batter
0:15:33 Pipe It Perfectly
0:20:43 Playing With Shapes & Sizes
0:22:54 Ready, Set, Bake!
0:24:24 What About Those "Feet"?
0:25:50 Fill 'Er Up
0:29:50 Gussy Up the Edges
0:31:09 Chill Time
0:32:34 S'More Macarons Fun
0:33:03 Macaron Layer Cake
0:33:35 Ice Cream Sandwiches
0:34:05 One Big Macaron
0:34:45. Macaron Pops
0:35:14 Macaron Towers
0:36:04. The Beauty of Brush Embroidery
0:38:50 Piping Galore
0:39:22 Decorating with Macarons
0:40:20 Mistakes Happen
0:48:21 Macaron Trifle
(0:49:29 Peach Macarons, Egg Macarons)
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As a one-stop shop for joyful living, Food52 connects discerning home cooks with the interests they're passionate about via award-winning food and lifestyle content across platforms. We provide our audience with the recipes and solutions they crave to eat thoughtfully, live joyfully, entertain beautifully, and travel differently.

[@1ciagirl]

Mind blown. Speaking as a pastry chef who trained at the best culinary school in the world, I just watched her for the first time. Outstanding. Her communication skills, experience, and knowledge are of the highest caliber. Watching this woman is a genuine MasterClass class experience, bar none!

[@RoxasLov3r4Ev3r]

Just curious, what culinary school is that?? 😊

[@Em-os1yz]

The WWSOCG. Willy Wonka School Of Chocolate Guzzlers. Of course. Most prestigious culinary school on the planet.

[@trevorwilliams3501]

@@RoxasLov3r4Ev3r I'm going to guess she's CIA going by her name: 1ciagirl. CIA == Culinary Institute of America. Not exactly a pasty school, though, so I could be wrong.

[@AnthonyBottari]

Going by her username the CIA . Best in the world is a stretch but still one of the most known.

[@memo-dt8xx]

I can't believe these videos are free , I mean this is like full on baking school , tbh better than the one I've been to 😂😁

[@ShaGemDropper]

I know!! This is priceless!

[@joshuawinter7779]

Erin is the best! I use all her recipes

[@memo-dt8xx]

@@joshuawinter7779 already following her ! 😁

[@memo-dt8xx]

@@ShaGemDropper totally 😍

[@TechTails]

Its a great vid but no offense its nothing like baking school lol. You're just at a crappy one I think. Haha

[@toumazosdemetriou7632]

Erin I'm a 56 year old Chef. I have to say. You are Brilliant I could watch you for hours. Well done. Regards from Finland

[@emilyscottbanks7638]

The level of effort Erin put into this episode - the clarity, variety, extensive coverage, was nothing less than an epic master-class. Brava!!

[@food52]

Well, that’s just about the nicest comment ever. Thanks for the kind words and for watching!

[@emilyscottbanks7638]

@@food52 It totally influenced me to buy her book on pie, which just came...and is jaw-dropping in it's coverage.

[@food52]

Emily Scott Banks isn’t it wonderful? Happy baking! (To borrow a phrase :)

[@jennaom1]

I agree, I am consistently struck by the work Erin must put into each episode: developing and writing out all the recipes, baking all the final pieces for the video (including intentional mistake batches), script-writing, shooting, etc. I don't know how she has time to do anything else when she's putting these out monthly. Yet I see her making guest appearances on other channels and writing recipes for other sites. It's impressive to say the least!

[@editedacosta7856]

@@emilyscottbanks7638 8..

[@straystars801]

Miss Erin is such a well-spoken individual. Her instructions are clear, provide ample detail, and she gives information pertaining to the steps she gives. I absolutely love this!

[@teachjacque]

Yes, she does!

[@roselynmoseley395]

Erin, Hello 😊 I have watched no end of your videos wow you really have to love baking to want to do it in the first place, you my darling absolutely shine everything baking and I have tried a few of your recipes they all turn out great. You did a 9by13 cake with the best cream cheese frosting absolutely yummy, I made your cake for the coronation with a union jack pattern on it I took it to a get together with the neighbours and there was quite a lot of goodies there for us all to share but being honest people did have some of the other items there but there was quite a lot left but the cake I took completely demolished 😂😂there was only 14 in total so you can see they had more than one piece 😅 thanks again Erin I can't wait to try these macerons never made them before but always wanted too good baking everyone ❤

[@k1amc3]

This was one heck of a coincidence....I'm going out in like an hour to get a new thermometer and I was like 'oh hey maybe I should try and make macarons, too bad Erin hasn't done a video yet' and HERE I AM SCROLLING I think I can predict the future guys

[@mabrokael7577]

Hahaha, you manifested it.

[@fussyrenovator7551]

No coincidence, the internet was listening to you. Happens all the time to me. It’s spooky.

[@Curioinfinity]

@@fussyrenovator7551 same

[@starboard6372]

This episode must have taken days and days to pull together. Much appreciated. Erin must have a VERY happy crew.

[@namdhakcity216]

I have worked in the fine dining industry for 15 years, and from watching all these baking videos I have to say that Erin is truly a naturally gifted baker.

[@remsan03]

Macarons are the diva of the patisserie world. She's temperamental. She's very particular. You got to treat her right. They look very boujie but they're difficult to deal with.

[@TechTails]

I never understood it. Its pretty easy. Only thing thats temperamental is the French Method tbh. And hardly anyone uses it.

[@SR77736]

Like my ex 😭😂

[@drdem00]

Diva cookies!!! LOL!! Too funny !!

[@silvergirl7810]

EVERY SINGLE LITTLE THING is explained and why! I wish I had Erin when I was younger - what a complete jewel of a baker, teacher, artist, beautiful soul- just master chef 👩‍🍳 in every way! Thank you so so much Erin- you are sooooo impressive on so many levels! We all love you!! ❤️

[@timpeterson2278]

I've watched many a cooking show on KZbin, but none have the clarity and eloquence of Bake it Up a Notch with Erin McDowell. Thank you so much for such a well-written, passionate series of baking masterclasses! I feel empowered to make successful macarons!

[@catmac1275]

Anyone else watch these over and over because you can’t get enough of her? Absolutely need more of these amazing videos!!!

[@eviebb]

for those with nut allergies, pumpkin seeds are a great alternative! you have to toast and grind them but the steps are pretty much the same after that. hope this helps someone❤️

[@DaemonDesiree]

Thanks! I was wondering how to make these for my niece with a nut allergy!

[@DS-lp1te]

Are you serious? You MUST be joking! I. Will. Try. This. Asap! If this is true my mind will be blown.

[@erikadowdy686]

“ Little Nubbin”❣️❣️❣️So cute I love her so much🎀

[@tinalawlor4434]

Erin is a master at connecting to all levels of audience experience levels. The explanations of “what do you do when...“ is the ultimate!

[@patriciaalmano1561]

You the best Erin...I just retired at 61...Taught for 40 years...really enjoyed your lesson...you a true teacher...thanks Erin...I love baking...I am starting my own pastry business...and you are very dynamic in your teaching...love it, love it live it.. From SA

[@veroniquefaison]

It's always a good FriYay when Erin uploads new content.

[@Mendy6649]

I love her enthusiasm and witty personality. ❤️

[@aubreyarchives]

This is the BEST Macaron video on the entire internet. Hands down Erin is seriously stealing pastry school's thunder with this series.

[@annamarielico-alfano7458]

My my, oh my! Your recipes are a dream come true!! Thank you, your a life saver. I have dairy allergies, this is living, Erin !!

[@poshrat993]

I am absolutely allergic to this but I like watching Erin so so much. Perfect to watch after a long hard week.

[@eviebb]

toast pumpkin seeds and grind them. hope this helps🥰

[@aliciamaciel205]

The “ooh la la” made my day. I’ve been waiting for Erin to cover macarons and am very appreciative that the video’s so thorough!

[@food52]

So glad, Alicia!

[@CT1010101]

FINALLY, A GLUTEN FREE OPTION! I'm so excited!!!

[@shrutiagnihotri5746]

Whenever I have tried making macarons, they were always a fail. But after watching this and following your recipe, I was successful!!!! I can’t believe I did it, thanks to you! I am so proud of myself.

[@kashmiarabegum9172]

Can you plz tell how much time to bake d macrons

[@anithasai4374]

Can you tell me the measurements

[@jeaniegagne4115]

?@anithasai4374 where can I find the written recipe?

[@kkris5231]

You, Erin, are the MOST adorable baker! Your enthusiasm is infectious and I look forward to whatever amazing creations you share next. Thank you for sharing your passion - it is palpable xo

[@RobertaPeck]

Again here I am again, even though I don't make or eat pastries like this, I really appreciate how well you are able to teach your craft with such artistic creative flare.

[@juliewatson2281]

What I like about this show, is the thoroughness of explaining how to do a technique, and how to,with all the little tips. I love how you laugh at yourself for an oops moment. And how you look like us. I want a baker or chef who is a little chubby. It proves they eat what they bake or make. I remember as a young girl watching cooking shoes on tv (I’m 70), and one chef commenting, “never trust a skinny cook,” it shows they don’t eat or taste as they are cooking or baking. You never know if the recipe they’re demonstrating is edible and tasty. I love this baker, Erin, so versatile, a great teacher, and has a multitude of suggestions for variations. She is happy while demonstrating techniques and showing the final masterpiece. You always want a happy chef, and especially a baker. Since I discovered Erin, I think I’ve watched all her various programs. Just a terrific series!

[@garyhale5979]

I am a complete beginner to baking and I was just amazed at how detailed the episode was.

[@TashJansson]

I love how Erin is extra pumped about everything she shows. those yellow macarons with icing are STUNNING

[@kb-ih7ni]

After making macarons three times with some new thing going wrong each time, I am so grateful to have come across your video! I’ve watched so many macaron videos and this is by far the best. You’re so clear and detailed about everything, and you seem so bubbly without being annoying XD Will try again based on this video so I hope it comes out better

[@prairieskye]

Erin is a phenomenal teacher! Food52 comes thru again providing resources for home cooks

[@suzu9404]

One of my favorite things is a macaron ice cream sandwich. My mind was totally blown the first time I had one.

[@food52]

Wow-delicious!

[@TheBalancedMom]

I'm not baker-- I don't really bake besides a few times a year with my girlies because they enjoy baking otherwise, I'd probably never bake. Your passion though is sooooo contagious!!! These videos are sooo inspiring and sooo motivating and I think that says A LOT from a non baker!

[@WildThyme69]

Erin McDowell is a national treasure, I love her so much!! I love her so much I bought both her books, even though I don't like pie

[@chloeb.9403]

I have made all of those mistakes at least once!! The one where only the top of the macaron comes off and leaves the soggy base on the baking sheet led to the biggest of my baking mental breakdowns!! X’D Thank you for all the advice, I want to make more macarONs now!

[@conniegage2141]

You are now my favorite Baker. The way you explained everything is easy to understand. Love your cheerful attitude. Now I want to make these cookies.

[@alexandrarosado5301]

Wow it’s like Food 52 knew I was finishing my semester and needed this video

[@food52]

We're here for you!

[@lupeamalaplay]

These episodes make me happy, I can't help it ❤️ I love how she explains, she doesn't miss a thing!!! And the edition is everything ✨ whoaaaaaah 🤭

[@marjoriearnold6636]

I love this video, the only thing missing is the amounts of the ingredients. Thank you so much.

[@rickbare33139]

ABSOLUTELY love this episode!!! Thank you!❤️

[@BrazenSpirituality]

Erin is amazing! I do not often eat sweets but she makes me feel like I can bake anything, as long as I follow her videos. Her instructions are so clear, I am never left wondering if a step is done correctly.

[@lauraabc1233]

THIS. WAS. INCREDIBLE! Erin, you've inspired me to try macarons this weekend!!!

[@DebWashington]

Please don’t stop making your videos. My first love is baking and my second is cooking (home baking). You are an excellent baker and instructor, with a fantastic personality. You make baking even more enjoyable. Now, I have to make more macarons and practice my cake decorating. I also have to go binge watch all your videos that I may have missed. Thank you for making it look easy.

[@food52]

Thank you so much, Bakerdeb-wonderful to hear. Happy baking!

[@jeng8895]

Love watching bake it up a notch with Erin! These in-depth tutorials are brilliant and have inspired me to learn new baking skills. Can't wait for the next one.

[@AnaRodriguez-ej4ez]

I just love how detailed you are with you lessons and how simple you make them for us. Thank you kindly 🥰

[@joandeni235]

This was great!! As always, I learn new things and Erin is just a joy to watch. Thanks!

[@sabrinarusso1479]

What an amazingly well done episode! Thank you SO much! Can’t wait to get baking.

[@MichaelAlthauser]

Texted my wife a picture of the s'more macarons and now I think I have to learn how to bake macarons.

[@yourfavouritehydra]

I love your energy! This video was so through. I've been making macarons successfully for many many years but I watched this whole video because you're so compelling and just pulled me in.

[@snguy5232]

honestly the best tutorial for beginners or intermediate/experienced bakers on macarons i have seen thus far. Erin is a delight :D

[@1weldergirl]

I can’t say the degree of joy I get from watching these videos! I have learnt so much and I’m surprised how much I already know!

[@mariettacarn8191]

I love the way you teach Miss Erin, million thanks for sharing your deep knowledge in baking. More power to your channel🙏.

[@elizabetherickson4669]

I love to cook and bake, and I feel I can always learn something. I love Erin she explains things so well, and is very detailed. I to have several pie books but will be adding hers to my collection..I love to make pie any size and any kind. Thank you Erin you bring us to the next level.

[@milissaramlakhan9791]

Whenever I need to learn I come here...Erin, you do such an amazing job of explaining and sharing a wealth of information ... thank you for your videos ❤️

[@warrenfield686]

Erin, I came upon your videos quite by accident, but I am so impressed by your knowledge, your ability to instruct the audience,and the sense of humor you bring to the subject. Thank you so much for your contribution to the world!

[@nassimdjebaili5876]

I love her energy and positivity, the kind of person that makes you want to try and learn more !

[@mommabear76]

Just found this channel. I love how she explains everything.. I have never made these before but after watching, I think I will..

[@yamlirpa]

I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE you, Erin. I just stumbled across you and Food 52 and it has been the happiest 'accident' I have ever ben a part of. The love you have for baking and teaching just exudes through the screen. I feel like you my best friend, favorite teacher and mentor all in one. It is a blessing and a pleasure to view your videos and I can wait to learn more! I am so glad I found this channel and you!

[@carmenrojas4469]

This is so beautiful. Thank you so much for all these beautiful ideas.

[@phyllislen2792]

All of your videos are amazing Erin, and so educational! Your ability to explain things so clearly is outstanding. The thought of baking macarons (which I've been contemplating for a while) seemed so overwhelming but your explanations have made me feel like it's accomplishable! Your "chemistry" information; is very helpful to understand how important each step is! Also, your color choices in decorations, originality and creativity are so inspiring and so enjoyable visually too! Going to look up your recipes next!

[@DonnaBorooah]

Until this point, I was armed with one very particular but successful macaron recipe. I’m so happy and excited to see your take and look forward to trying them your way!!!!

[@food52]

So glad to hear that, Donna. Happy baking!

[@sabrinadavis8355]

Soooooo excited for this! I've been waiting for an Erin video on macarons 🥰🥰🥰

[@Baboo1020]

I love this video, i’ve always felt intimidated to make macarons, however you explain it so simply, clearly and most importantly, you show what it should look like at every stage. Now i believe I can try to make macarons. Wishing me luck 🍀

[@mia9238]

Thank you for explaining this as well as you do!!! Truly appreciate the step by step 😊

[@Freedomtoascend]

Miss Erin is an expert and excellent teacher. Of course I thank her generosity for sharing the tips and tricks of the trade 😘☺️

[@TheSuperkhan15]

IM SOO PSYCHED UP TO MAKE SO MANY MACARONS NOW!!! Erin, you are a LEGEND!

[@kuka75Katering]

Thank you so much for your precious tip and time. Happy baking.

[@darylgonzalez646]

She just lifts my spirit! Amazing personality!

[@georgiecastilla28]

This goes beyond being the best macaron “tutorial” I’ve ever seen. This is a masterclass. I absolutely adored it.

[@food52]

Wow, thank you!

[@Artzenflowers]

I’m dying to chow down on some Macarons now! Thanks Erin! 💖

[@jberry8910]

Thank you for describing baking in a friendly, passionate way that encourages me to step out of my box! Grateful.

[@mithulahiri4105]

I am SO happy that you tackled the French meringue method! This is exactly the one I am trying to master. I love Erin's instructions...she is so cheerful and makes it seem easy, so I will try it again this weekend.

[@quenniesabanal8306]

I really love how she is so detailed with her explanations

[@annekaanderson6447]

I really appreciate how she reminds us that it is ok for it not to be perfect, especially the first time we make them.

[@food52]

It's true! Thanks so much, Anneka!

[@cleidecjrb]

Thank you so much for your kindness! With no doubts this is an epic master class. I love this! You have an amazing way to present yourself and your work. Congratulations!

[@mariaeapen385]

What a great teacher Erin is? I don’t know much about baking and this makes a good teaching experience. Thank you Erin !!! Your class wants me to make some macaroons

[@AbigailMontiel]

I've learned a lot watching you

[@TashJansson]

Friday Erin for a good weekend

[@mavericktamu]

You are such a joy to watch. I love baking and you inspire me even more. Thank you 🙏🏼 for sharing 🥐🥨🍞🥯🥧🍰🎂🍩🍪🥮🧁

[@pattieccakeart]

Love how you explain everything in such detail. Thank you!

[@ianstagaman9880]

AHHHHHH OMG THANK YOU FOR THIS

[@ale_bc2942]

I think the problem with macarons is that it takes a couple of times to get it right, but people get easily frustrated because they're a bit expensive and take a lot of work. Just think that you'll try something delicious and unique, they may look not that great first but unless you burn them they always taste great.

[@florabeard236]

Very clear , very thorough instruction on how to make these delicious cookies! Thank you Erin

[@happyperson7663]

Thank you so much! This is my third time trying to make macarons, and with your recipe, I finally perfected it!

[@DuyNguyen-yx2vd]

I guess Erin has to do an episode for Macaroons so y'all can use all the cut footage.

[@friendswithfairies3278]

I tasted my very first macaron last year but after watching this, it is now time to bake them. Thank you for the masterclass, Erin. That was awesome!

[@PirouettingFox]

This was amazing! Thank you so much for the thorough education on macaroni. It was so detailed, so inspiring, beautifully done! I love your personality & the joy you bring to the video. I am now off to watch more of your videos hehe 🥰🥰🥰

[@felixkoi7236]

hands down the best vid for macarons ever. thanks Erin, you're amazing!

[@hamidehorra4849]

Erin….your a God sent. Your absolutely awesome.! All your videos are so thorough and easy to follow. You leave nothing to question. Thank you so much for your generous videos. Adore you!❤️

[@sallygallagher7776]

Absolutely the best macaron instruction video I’ve watched. Everything is so well addressed

[@joannjacquin4983]

what a great episode...I loved it! Erin, you're such a good teacher!

[@lynngibb5704]

Erin you are fabulous. Im a novice baker and love trying new things especially the decorating side. I have never came across tutorials that are so informative and fun. Thank you. Love from Northern Ireland

[@itsnotkira]

super excited to try making these this weekend! I've only ever had macarons a handful of times but have always wanted to try them again so thank u erin for this amazing tutorial!

[@abbielane9234]

Thank you so much for sharing your talents and you inspire people to get creative! It’s magical 💕

[@Nanaof3.]

Best baking show on the internet!! Just found Erin and love how she explains her process

[@amandaalejandro5860]

LOVE this video. You're such a pro and I love the way you explain things. Macarons are tricky and you really broke it down well.

[@nancyyen1]

Impressive for other uses Thank you Erin for your time and patience 😋

[@lisaanderson135]

Thank you for all your help! I have been waiting for this for a while now 😊

[@mefranbengcor2521]

Hi Miss Erin, is such a well spoken individual. Her instructions are so clear, provide ample detail, and She gives good information pertaining every steps She gives Absolutely love this thank you so much

[@yulinashih5828]

This is my third time watching this episode. Love it so much! Erin is the most wonderful chef!