How much do macaroons cost to make?

The cost of making macaroons can vary depending on the ingredients used and the quantity being made. Here's a general breakdown of the costs associated with making macarons:

1. Ingredients:

- Almond Flour: Almond flour is the primary ingredient in macarons. The price of almond flour can vary from around $10 to $20 per pound. For a batch of macarons, you'll typically need about 1 cup of almond flour.

- Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar is used to sweeten the macarons. A 1-pound bag of powdered sugar can cost around $2 to $3. For a batch of macarons, you'll typically need about 1 cup of powdered sugar.

- Egg Whites: Egg whites are essential for the texture and structure of the macarons. Fresh egg whites can be purchased at around $2 to $3 for a dozen eggs. For a batch of macarons, you'll typically need 2 to 3 egg whites.

- Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar is used in the meringue to add sweetness and stability. A 5-pound bag of granulated sugar can cost around $5 to $10. For a batch of macarons, you'll typically need about 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.

- Food Coloring (optional): Food coloring is used to add color to the macarons. You can purchase a small bottle of food coloring for a few dollars.

- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract adds flavor to the macarons. A small bottle of vanilla extract can cost around $5 to $10.

2. Packaging (optional):

If you plan on packaging the macarons for gifting or selling, you'll need to factor in the cost of packaging materials such as boxes, bags, or wrapping paper.

Approximate Costs:

Based on the current prices for ingredients in the United States, making a batch of macarons (around 20 to 30 shells) can cost anywhere from $5 to $10. This cost can vary depending on the quality and brand of ingredients used, as well as the quantity being made.

It's important to note that these costs are approximate and can change based on regional pricing and availability of ingredients.