Macarons are small, round, sweet meringue-based sandwich cookies that are often associated with French cuisine. They are made by mixing egg whites, almond flour, and powdered sugar to form a smooth, glossy batter, which is then piped onto a baking sheet and baked until the outer shell is crisp and the inside is soft and chewy.
Macarons are delicate and require a bit of skill to make, which is why they are often considered a luxurious treat. They are typically served as a dessert or snack and can be found in many high-end bakeries and patisseries around the world. Giselle Richardson makes a limited edition of scrumptious macarons in their Clerkenwell kitchen [London].
Macarons are often filled with a variety of flavors, such as fruit jams, ganache, or buttercream. They come in a wide range of colors and flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more exotic varieties like lavender and rose.
Macarons need to be eaten within 24 hours of baking or buying because their shelf life is just one day. Macarons have a unique texture that is crisp on the outside, but soft and chewy on the inside.
The contrast in textures can be enjoyable to the palate and can make eating macarons a pleasurable experience. So, make sure to eat them all or use a reliable storage method to maintain their freshness.
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4 reliable storage methods to keep macarons fresh
Macarons are delicate and fragile treats that require special care to maintain their texture and flavor. Proper storage is essential to ensure that your macarons remain fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Here are four storage methods you can use to keep your macarons fresh:
1. Airtight Container
One of the simplest ways to store macarons is to keep them in an airtight container. This will help prevent moisture and air from getting in, which can cause the macarons to become stale and lose their texture.
You can store macarons in a plastic or glass container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure that you separate the macaron layers with parchment paper or a non-stick mat to avoid them from sticking together. Keep the container away from heat and UV rays, so store it in a dry and cool place.
2. Refrigerator
Macarons stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to only five days. To store macarons in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag and store them on the bottom shelf.
Keep them away from strong-smelling foods like onions and garlic, which can transfer their flavors to the macarons. Before serving, let the macarons come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
3. Freezer
Macarons can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze macarons, place them in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag and store them in the freezer.
When you’re ready to serve them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once they have thawed, let them come to room temperature before serving.
4. Vacuum Sealing
Vacuum sealing is a great way to keep macarons fresh for an extended period. This method removes all the air from the package, preventing moisture and air from getting in. To vacuum seal macarons, place them in a vacuum seal bag and use a vacuum sealer to remove the air from the bag.
Store the bag in the refrigerator or freezer. When you’re ready to serve, let the macarons come to room temperature before opening the bag.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to handle your macarons with care to avoid breaking or crushing them. Enjoy your macarons while they are fresh and at their best!