Have you made Macarons yet?? I was so nervous about them, I went and took a class on how to make them. I’m not sure I got my money’s worth because I did not make very good Macarons in the class or at home!
I really enjoy making Meringue cookies, so I thought I would be a pro at Macarons. But, OH NO! Not even close!
It’s such a science to get it all right and perfect! I must not have done everything perfectly when I was making these.
I wanted to make something Special and Different for my in-law’s 45th Wedding Anniversary. My Sister-in-Law put together an awesome gift basket full of Sapphire colored treats! Let’s just say that if it had a blue label, bottle, or package, she put it into the gift basket. It turned out really great and I’m sure they are still picking out things from the basket. One of my contributions were these Macarons. (Hence the blue ones in attempt #2)
On my first attempt of the day, I made some Chocolate Macarons following the recipe by David Lebovitz (found here). Even he could not get it perfect, so I didn’t feel too bad….
This time I sifted the almond flour as I added it the (blue) meringue. I also allowed them to sit on the counter for 15 minutes prior to putting them into the over. They turned out better, but still not perfect. They were hollow inside. Not good.
There are a bunch of filling suggestions on the Martha Stewart, but I made a basic chocolate ganache filling.
3 1/2 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped (preferably 70% cacao)
1/2 ounce (1 tablespoon) unsalted butter, softened
Bring cream to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Pour cream over chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let stand for 2 minutes. Add butter, then whisk mixture until smooth. Let cool, stirring often. Use immediately.
Mellie
Sunday 16th of December 2012
They look delicious! I made them using the first link that you provided. I also read the Martha Stewart recipe beforehand, many, many times. I was afraid, even intimidated by making Macarons, too. I had been putting it off for a few years, in fact. I was taking a public speaking class (as if that isn't intimidating enough) and needed to do an informative speech. There aren't many steps in making Macaron's and since my speech couldn't be longer than 5 minutes, I decided to use making Macaron's as my topic. I made them with perfection on my very first try. I was floored.The other student's enjoyed my Macaron's and I can mark it off of my bucket list! :)
Cheers!
Caroline
Wednesday 21st of November 2012
These look so good!! I mean so good that I probably would eat way to many of them!!
Mariel
Saturday 17th of November 2012
Thanks for linking up! Hope to see some of your great ideas again this week on 'Or so she says ...' www.oneshetwoshe.com
Michelle's Tasty Creations
Tuesday 13th of November 2012
Karyn,These Macaroons look beautiful. So sorry to hear it took three times to get it right. I would NEVER have that much patience, lol. I'm sure your in-laws loved the finished product. Thanks so much for linking up to Creative Thursday. Can’t wait to see what you share this week! Have a wonderful week.Michelle
Self Sagacity
Tuesday 13th of November 2012
Nice work, I enjoyed your trial runs most. It helps to know what not to do.