Beginner Macaron Shapes to Try: The Snowman Macaron

A simple, adorable winter macaron shape perfect for beginners

Why the Snowman Macaron Is Great for Beginners

Shaped macarons can feel intimidating, but this one is intentionally easy:

• Uses plain white macaron batter
• Only requires two circles connected together
• No complex templates or advanced piping skills
• Decorating uses basic royal icing + edible markers
• Works beautifully in winter gift boxes and holiday markets

It’s the kind of macaron that looks adorable without adding stress to your process.

If you’re brand new to macarons, you’ll love starting with fun shapes like this. And if you’re ready to go deeper, I created a step-by-step Macaron Guide that covers my recipe, mixing technique, and beginner tips so you can bake with confidence.

Step 1: Download the Free Snowman Template

I use two different template sizes depending on the purpose — one large “fatcaron-style” version for my bakery and a smaller version that works well for sampler boxes or home bakers.

1. Fatcaron Snowman (Bakery Size)

This is the exact size I use for production at The Modern Bakery/Fatté.

• Width: 2.13″
• Height: 3.45″

Visually, it has that plush, oversized, whimsical feel people love — especially when decorated.

2. Snowman (more traditional size)

A cute smaller option perfect for beginners or variety packs.

• Width: 1.39″
• Height: 2.25″

Both sizes bake beautifully. The choice just depends on your workflow and goals.

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A Bakery Owner’s POV: Why I Use the Fatcaron Size

When you’re decorating shaped macarons at scale, time becomes the most expensive ingredient.

Every snowman needs:
✔ eyes
✔ a smile
✔ coal buttons
✔ a carrot nose
✔ a tiny scarf

Each detail only takes a second — but multiply that across dozens of macarons, and suddenly an “easy” design can turn into hours.

Here’s why I intentionally make mine fatcaron-sized:

• Bigger macarons = fewer pieces to make
  Instead of piping 100 small snowmen, I can make fewer large ones and still fill my boxes beautifully.
• They command a higher price
  A large, decorated macaron has more perceived value, which allows me to price fairly for my time and artistry.
• Less repetitive decorating
  If I can reduce the number of carrot noses or coal buttons I’m piping, that saves time — and time directly affects profitability.
• Better workflow as a one-woman bakery
  This size helps me stay efficient, avoid burnout, and deliver consistent quality during the busy holiday rush.

The fatcaron size is just smarter production… and customers love them.

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What You’ll Need

(for decorating)

• Fully baked white macaron shells (large or small template)
• Black edible ink marker
• Orange royal icing
• Red royal icing
• Small piping bag or parchment piping cone
• Your favorite macaron filling (vanilla, peppermint, cinnamon, etc.)

How to Pipe the Snowman Shape

1. Pipe the Bottom Circle
   Pipe a round macaron shell about 1.5–2 inches wide (or follow your template).
2. Pipe the Smaller Head
   Pipe a smaller circle directly above it so they lightly touch.
   They’ll fuse together perfectly while baking.
3. Rest, Bake & Cool
   Let the shells rest until matte, bake as usual, and allow to cool fully before decorating.

Baking Time

Every oven is different, so the most important thing is to judge timing based on what you are doing now. If you are following my recipe, the fatcaron size I bake for 22-23 minutes and the traditional size is 19-20 minutes.

Decorating Your Snowman

This is the fun part — decorating turns the simple shape into something full of personality.

1. Draw the Face

Using a black edible ink marker:

• Add two small eyes
• Dot a curved smile
• Add three “coal” buttons down the body

Markers keep everything crisp and beginner-friendly.

2. Pipe the Carrot Nose

Use orange royal icing to pipe a tiny sideways triangle or tapered line. If you are using a piping tip, I use a 4.

3. Add the Scarf

Use red royal icing to pipe a small band across the “neck.”
Add two little tail if you want extra detail.

Let the royal icing set before packaging.

Fill & Finish

Pair the shells, pipe your filling, and allow them to mature in the fridge overnight for the best texture.

These snowmen look gorgeous in holiday macaron boxes — and they’re always customer favorites.

Tips for Success

• Keep the circles simple — they don’t need to be perfect
• Use thicker royal icing so your details stay sharp
• Let the edible marker fully dry before boxing
• Add edible glitter for a frosty, magical finish
• Try seasonal flavors: hot cocoa, gingerbread, peppermint, sugar cookie

Final Thoughts

This little snowman is proof that shaped macarons don’t need to be complicated. With two piped circles and a handful of simple details, you get a macaron that feels festive, charming, and surprisingly easy.

Whether you choose the fatcaron size for bakery production or the mini size for fun winter baking at home, this snowman macaron is a shape you’ll want to bring back every holiday season.