Macarons sur Canapé (or Nutty Kisses on Shortbread) are delicious cookies on a shortbread base.
They are an exquisite Christmas specialty, combining the richness of a tender shortbread base with the airy lightness of hazelnut macaron.
The base, made from flour, sugar, butter, and egg yolks, provides a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Topping this soft foundation is a crisp yet delicate macaron layer, crafted from ground hazelnuts, sugar, and whipped egg whites.
The interplay between the cookie’s tender base and its light, nutty topping creates a harmony of textures and flavours, making these little delights irresistible.
Perfect for sharing during festive gatherings, these cookies truly celebrate Alsatian baking traditions and are a delightful addition to your holiday repertoire.
Stored in a tin, they retain their freshness and can be enjoyed throughout the Christmas season.
Nutty Kisses on Shortbread: the Recipe
I’ve personally tried this recipe, and the photos you see are my own—proof that these Nutty Kisses on Shortbread turn out as beautiful as they are delicious!
Ingredients
For the shortbread base:
- 500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 125 g (2/3 cup) granulated sugar
- 250 g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 6 egg yolks
For the macaron topping:
- 6 egg whites
- 250 g (1 1/4 cups) granulated sugar
- 250 g (2 1/2 cups) ground hazelnuts
Instructions
Prepare the Shortbread Base:
1. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the egg yolks, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Slowly add the flour and knead until the dough comes together into a smooth ball.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours.
Shape the Cookies:
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
6. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out the shortbread bases.
Prepare the Macaron Topping:
7. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
8. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat.
9. Gently fold in the ground hazelnuts to create the macaron mixture.
Assemble and Bake:
10. Place a spoonful of the macaron mixture onto each shortbread round, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
11. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
12. Bake for about 10 minutes, watching closely to prevent over-browning.
Cool and Store:
13. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
14. Store them in a tin to keep them fresh and delicious for weeks.
Final Words about Nutty Kisses on Shortbread
Nutty Kisses on Shortbread are a cherished treat in Alsace, where they are often baked and shared during the holiday season.
Their rich shortbread foundation and airy, nutty topping create a unique combination of textures and flavours, making them a standout addition to any Christmas cookie platter.
Whether served with tea or coffee or given as a festive gift, these cookies bring a touch of Alsatian charm and warmth to your holiday celebrations.
Stored properly, they stay fresh for weeks, allowing you to savour their delightful flavours throughout the Advent season.
Find out more!
Check out all our Christmas recipes on the blog!
Learn more about the traditions of Alsatian Christmas Cookies
Read it in French! More French Christmas traditions and celebrations
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