A macaron is a French dessert that is made from two almond meringue cookies that are sandwiched together with a flavored filling.
Keep reading to learn more about macarons, where they originated, and how they’re made.
What is the history of macarons?
There are many theories on the true origins of macarons. Some believe they originated in Italy, some believe they originated in the Middle East, and some believe they originated in China. The most popular belief is that they are of Italian descent. Legend has it, the recipe was brought to France in 1533 by Queen Catherine de’ Medici of Italy upon her marriage to King Henry II of France. They were popularized in the 19th century by Ladurée, a famous French bakery. Today, one of the best ways to get your hands on these treats is to order macarons online.
What are the basic macaron ingredients?
Macarons are made from a mixture of almond flour, sugar, and egg whites. Vanilla extract is a key ingredient in most macaron recipes. It is responsible for the vanilla flavor in the cookies. The extract is made by macerating vanilla beans in alcohol. The alcohol extracts the flavor from the beans. Granulated sugar and confectioner’s sugar are essential ingredients in these pastries as well.
What are the typical macaron fillings?
Macarons are typically filled with flavored buttercream or ganache. There are endless possibilities for macaron fillings, but some of the most popular ones include the following:
-Chocolate ganache
-Vanilla bean paste
-Caramel
-Lemon curd
-Berry jam
-Chocolate hazelnut spread
-Cream cheese frosting
What are the steps to making macarons?
Macarons are made from a mixture of almond flour, sugar, and egg whites. First, the almond flour and sugar are combined and then beaten together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, the egg whites are beaten until they form stiff peaks. The almond flour mixture is then folded into the egg whites. The mixture is then piped into small circles on a baking sheet. The macarons are then baked in a preheated oven. The resulting cookies are light, fluffy, and slightly chewy
To make the cookies:
1. Preheat your oven to 160 degrees C (320 degrees F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Sift almond flour and sugar together into a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
4. Add vanilla extract and a few drops of food coloring, if desired.
5. Carefully fold the egg whites into the almond mixture until well combined.
6. Spoon the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle.
7. Pipe the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave plenty of space between each macaron.
8. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, until the macarons are firm and lightly golden in color.
9. Leave to cool on the baking sheets before transferring to a wire rack.
10. Pipe the filling into the center of half of the macarons, then top with the remaining macarons.
To make the filling (classic vanilla buttercream):
1. Cream butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Stop when it’s soft and smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar.
3. Add milk.
4. Add vanilla extract.
5. Mix until combined. The finished product should be light and fluffy.
Overall, people love macarons for many reasons. Some might find them aesthetically pleasing with their colorful and intricate designs. Others might appreciate their delicate and delicious flavor profile. And still, others might love how they’re such a perfect bite-sized treat. No matter the reason, it’s clear that macarons are here to stay!