Prepare the Macaron Batter:
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together into a large bowl. This helps eliminate lumps and creates a smoother macaron batter.
Whip the Egg Whites:
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed using an electric mixer until foamy.
Gradually add the granulated sugar and increase the speed to high. Continue whipping until the egg whites form stiff peaks, about 3-5 minutes.
Incorporate Rose Flavor:
Add the rosewater (or rose extract) to the whipped egg whites and gently fold it in. Add a few drops of pink food coloring if you prefer a light pink hue for the shells.
Fold in Dry Ingredients:
Gradually fold the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture into the whipped egg whites. Use a spatula and fold carefully to avoid deflating the batter. The batter should flow smoothly and form a ribbon when lifted with a spatula.
Pipe the Macarons:
Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round piping tip.
Pipe small rounds, about 1 ½ inches (4 cm) in diameter, onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one.
Tap the baking sheet gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Rest the Macarons:
Let the piped macaron shells sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until a thin skin forms on the surface. This helps create the signature macaron "feet."
Bake the Macarons:
Bake the macarons in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through to ensure even baking. The macarons are done when they have a smooth, slightly crisp surface, and they should lift off the parchment paper easily.
Cool the Macarons:
Let the macarons cool completely on the baking sheets before removing them.
Prepare the Rose Buttercream:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until smooth.
Add the rosewater and a pinch of salt, followed by heavy cream to reach the desired consistency.
Assemble the Macarons:
Once the macaron shells are completely cool, pair them up based on size.
Pipe a generous amount of rose buttercream onto the flat side of one macaron shell and top with another shell to form a sandwich.
Store and Serve:
Store the assembled macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the shells to soften, achieving the perfect texture.