Almond Apricot Macarons

Trust me: these wee little fellows pack quite the punch. I'd made a fairly large batch of apricot-habanero jam and after consulting flavor wizard Hallie for compatible flavors (I'd half-expected her to text back "CLAMS! CLAM MACARON! NO ONE'S EVER DONE IT BEFORE!") decided to up the almond ante and see what came of it. These sweet and spicy treats are perfect for a little midday pick-me-up, which is probably why I made quite a few bite sized ones (like those pictured here). 

Pink Peppercorn Macarons with Strawberry-Orange Jam

As promised, Hallie and I got together to stress bake again and some wonderful, wacky and delicious things resulted from our efforts. When it comes to Hallie's and my baking relationship, she's definitely the mad genius who's like, "I know! WE'LL MAKE A STEAK TARTARE LINZER TORTE! They'll never expect it!" and I'm the one who provides a lot of encouragement, writes down lists of the ideas she spews, occasionally buys fruit and sometimes pours the sugar into the mixer when her elbow's broken. Which it is right now.