Ohhhhhhh macarons (pronounced ma-ka-hon), one of my favourite treats! There's nothing like treating yourself to a box of Laduree macarons and pretend you're on holiday in Paris! 

Spring weekends are for refreshing treats like these passionfruit macarons!  I love tropical macarons and these are filled with a tart, but slightly floral passionfruit jam.  It’s perfect for a sunny spring/summer day! Indulge in the irresistible tangy-sweet flavor of passionfruit macarons! These delectable French pastries are filled with a luscious passionfruit jam that perfectly balances the tropical fruit's tanginess with just the right amount of sweetness.  The passionfruit's tropical notes shine through in every bite, making these macarons the perfect treat for any lover of exotic flavors. The delicate, crispy shell of the macaron provides the perfect textural contrast to the smooth filling, creating a heavenly taste experience. Whether you're looking for a sweet snack to brighten up your day or an impressive dessert for a special occasion, these passionfruit macarons are sure to transport you to a tropical paradise!

A little background on macarons..

Macarons are a type of French dessert that consists of two delicate, meringue-based cookies sandwiched together with a creamy filling. They are known for their vibrant colors, crispy texture, and rich flavors, and have become an iconic symbol of French patisserie.

Historically, macaroons have been around for several centuries, with some historians tracing their origins back to medieval Italy. However, it was not until the 16th century that they first became popular in France, when Catherine de Medici brought her pastry chefs with her to Paris when she married King Henry II. From there, macaroons gradually gained popularity and became a staple of French cuisine.

Culturally, macaroons have become a symbol of elegance and sophistication, and are often associated with luxury and indulgence. They are commonly served at special occasions such as weddings and high-end events, and are often given as gifts or souvenirs to visitors to France.

In recent years, macarons have become a global phenomenon, with pastry shops and bakeries around the world offering their own variations of the classic French dessert. Despite their popularity, however, macaroons remain deeply rooted in French culture and are an enduring symbol of the country's culinary heritage.

 

Yes, macarons are hard to make.

In fact, we spent at least a few years trying to make them before getting there, and then another 5 years trying to perfect the texture and flavours (so you don't have to!).  From the consistency, temperature and humidity, macarons are notoriously temperamental.  Here are a few tips to help you increase your chance of success!   

1. Measure ingredients carefully: Macarons are very sensitive to the ratio of ingredients, so it's important to measure everything carefully. Use a kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients in grams, rather than measuring cups.
2. Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, including the egg whites, almond flour, and sugar, are at room temperature before you begin. This will help them incorporate more easily and create a smoother batter.
3. Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar: Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together to remove any lumps or large pieces. This will help create a smoother batter and prevent lumps in the finished macarons.
4. Use a silicone baking mat or parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to prevent the macarons from sticking to the pan.
5. Let the macarons rest: After piping the macarons onto the baking sheet, let them rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help form a thin skin on the outside of the macarons, which will allow them to rise properly in the oven and develop the characteristic "feet."
6. Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing the batter can cause the macarons to spread or develop cracks in the oven. Mix the batter just until it reaches a smooth, thick consistency and falls off the spatula in a ribbon-like stream.
7. Be patient: Macarons require patience and practice to perfect. Don't be discouraged if your first batch doesn't turn out perfectly - keep trying and adjust your technique as needed.

Read more about macarons in my previous blog post! 

 

French or Italian Meringue?

Macarons are usually made with either french or Italian meringue.  This is dependent on the humidity of the environment! Italian meringues hold more moisture because of the syrup, so if you're making macarons in a humid environment, perhaps you'd have a better chance of success with French meringue.  We use french meringue at Niecebakes, its also easier without the fuss of making the hot syrup!

Macarons are a fun and delicious treat to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, anyone can create these delicate, flavorful cookies. Whether you're an advanced baker or a beginner, macarons are sure to impress your friends and family. So why not give it a try and whip up a batch?