Lavender Macarons with Vanilla Bean Buttercream

Despite the last few crazy rain storms we have had out this way, spring is definitely in the air.  When I open the back door every morning the first thing I smell is sweet succulent jasmine starting to bloom.  I love the dewy fragrant smell and always wish I could bottle it up and bring it in.  At our old apartment we had planted four big bushes of lavender and that is what we smelled mixed in with intoxicating jasmine.  I love lavender as it takes me to a far away place …. this dreamy little farm house in the middle of France.  There are a few chickens, a couple goats and yes, Jacqueline, a pig.  As well there are fields upon fields of lavender.  When we open the doors in the morning to enjoy the sunshine on our feet while making coffee the lavender wraps it sweet arms around us.  This is spring!

For this months’ Mac Attack Challenge 5 (can you believe it has been 5), we are participating in “World Macaron Day, which is March 20.  The lovely duo Jamie and Deeba challenged us to put a little bit of spring into our macarons.  I decided to make a soft but sweet lavender macaron with a vanilla bean buttercream.  I was very pleased with this round as every one of the macarons came out perfect.  Beautiful little feet, perfectly round, slightly crunchy but still a little chewy – perfect!  I am so pleased with myself as I feel I have finally, after 3 years of making these petite bisous, I have done it!  I have Jamie and Deeba to thank for pushing me beyond the comfort zone and to keep with it!   Be sure to check out all the lovely spring time macarons over at the MacTweet site.

Recipe:  Lavender Macarons with Vanilla Bean Buttercream

I used my basic macaron recipe but I added a couple drops of violet colored paste.  As well before drying the macarons I sprinkled a touch of culinary lavender.  I filled them with a buttery vanilla bean buttercream – simply leave out the bergamont and add the beans from one vanilla bean pod.  This macaron is definitely all about spring time.