Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together in a mixing bowl. In another bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy, then gradually add the granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Add pink gel food coloring if desired.
Gently fold the sifted almond flour and powdered sugar mixture into the whisked egg whites using a figure-eight motion until the batter is smooth.
Transfer the batter into a piping bag and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheets. Tap the sheets to release air bubbles and let the macarons rest for 30-60 minutes until dry to the touch.
Bake the macarons for 15-20 minutes until firm and with feet formed at the base. Let cool completely before removing.
Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar until fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and optional raspberry puree.
Flip half of the macaron shells upside down and pipe a dollop of buttercream onto each. Top with fresh raspberries and press another shell on top.
Optionally, sprinkle finely chopped pistachios around the edges for garnish.
Notes
Display on a decorative cake stand for an elegant presentation.