Pusheen Macarons

Directions

1. 1
   Combine the confectioners sugar and almond flour in a fine mesh sieve and sift together into a bowl. Set aside.
2. 2
   Beat the egg whites at medium speed until foamy, and then add the sugar. Continue to whip at medium speed until stiff and glossy.
3. 3
   Take 1/3rd of the egg whites and add to the sugar-almond mixture, until it is all moistened, and then fold in the remaining egg whites. The mixture will loosen and deflate. Fold until it is a sticky batter, like a boxed cake mix. Separate into four bowls. Tint each one with a different color and stir inches Transfer to piping bags.
4. 4
   Cut 1/4 inch opening into pastry tip, and then pipe mounds the size of a quarter, at least two inches apart. Pipe the entire sheet pan in desired colors before moving to next step.
5. 5
   Rap the pan to release any bubbles. Pipe small dollops to create pusheen's ears onto each macaron. Go back over each with a toothpick, and refine the shape.
6. 6
   Allow the macarons to dry for a minimum of 30 minutes, until they have a dull outside shell. If it is humid, it may take longer.
7. 7
   Bake the macarons, one sheet at a time, in the center of the oven for 12 minutes. Rotate halfway through cooktime. Remove and allow to cool before removing.
8. 8
   To decorate, combine confectioners sugar and water. Tint royal icing in desired colors and pipe onto macarons. Decorate pusheen designs onto half of the macarons.
9. 9
   Assemble the macarons by piping 1 teaspoon buttercream onto flat side of the undecorated macarons. Sandwich together with decorated faces.
10. 10
    TIP: Dry near a fan or air conditioner to speed process.