Pastel de Macarons is a colorful dessert made by sandwiching pastel macaron shells with creamy vanilla buttercream and fruit jam. Arranged into a dome or layered cake shape, it makes an elegant centerpiece for celebrations.
In a bowl, mix the softened vanilla buttercream with the vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
Fold the whipped cream into the buttercream until light and evenly combined.
If desired, lightly sweeten the filling with the powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
Place one macaron shell on a serving plate and spread or pipe a small amount of buttercream filling on the flat side.
Add a thin layer of raspberry or strawberry jam over the filling, then top with a second macaron shell to form a sandwich.
Repeat with the remaining shells, arranging them by color for a pastel cake-like look.
Stack the filled macarons into a dome or layered pastel cake shape on a platter, using a little filling as glue if needed.
Garnish with fresh berries or edible flowers, if using, and chill for 20 to 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For the neatest presentation, make sure the buttercream is soft but not runny before assembling. Chill the finished macaron cake briefly so the filling sets and the structure holds better.