Macarons, with their delicate shells and luscious fillings, are culinary delights that can be enjoyed anytime. The dynamic treat can even be preserved for enjoyment at a later time. Knowing how to keep macarons fresh and maintain their light crispness and soft, slightly chewy texture is easy. Let’s look at some proper storage techniques that will help keep macarons fresh and ensure you get the best out of every bite.
How To Store Macarons: Avoid Humidity and Moisture
Macarons can be sensitive to humidity and moisture, which can compromise their delicate texture and lead to sogginess. Filled macarons will absorb some minimal amounts of moisture from their fillings, so to keep macarons fresh, it’s essential to protect them from excess moisture during storage.
1. Choose the Right Container For the Macarons
The first step of how to keep macarons fresh is selecting an appropriate container. Opt for an airtight container to shield the delicate confections from air and moisture. This can be a plastic container with a secure lid, a glass jar with a rubber-sealed closure, or even a decorative tin with a tight-fitting cover. Creating a protective barrier against external elements is an important step to help keep macarons fresh.
2. Layer with Parchment Paper
Inside the container, use parchment paper to create layers between the macarons. This additional barrier helps prevent them from sticking together and preserves the integrity of the crisp shell. Place a sheet of parchment paper at the bottom of the container, arrange a single layer of macarons, and continue this process, placing parchment paper between each layer.
3. Use the Refrigerator for Short-Term Storage
Keeping macarons at room temperature is generally recommended for short-term storage (up to a few days). The refrigerator can introduce unwanted moisture and alter the texture of the delicate shells. If you’ve just purchased or made macarons you plan to consume within a day or two, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
How to Keep Macarons Fresh for Longer Periods
If you intend to keep macarons fresh for an extended period, such as when gifting or transporting them, a more strategic approach to storage is necessary. There are several key steps you can take to help keep macarons fresh for a longer time.
- Refrigeration for Longer Storage: For a longer shelf life, consider refrigerating your macarons. However, this requires a bit of finesse to keep macarons fresh and maintain their quality.
- Use an airtight container: As mentioned earlier, an airtight container helps protect from excess moisture and keep macarons fresh and tasty.
- Allow for gradual temperature changes: Before serving refrigerated macarons, let them come to room temperature gradually. This helps prevent condensation, which can result in a soggy texture.
- Consume within a week: It is possible to keep macarons fresh for up to a week by refrigerating them; however, we highly recommend consuming them within this time frame to enjoy them at their best.
How to Keep Macarons Fresh for Long-Term Storage by Freezing
If you plan to store macarons for an even more extended period, freezing is a viable option. You can keep macarons fresh and maintain quality for up to 6 weeks by properly freezing them.
- Flash freeze: Lay the macarons on a baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, allowing the macarons to freeze individually.
- Transfer to an airtight container: Once the macarons are individually frozen, transfer them to an airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers.
- Label and date: Don’t forget to label the container with the flavor and date of freezing. This ensures you can keep track of the macarons’ freshness.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy your frozen macarons, thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent condensation.
How to Keep Macarons Fresh and Protect them from Odors
Macarons are flavor-absorbent, so to keep macarons fresh and tasty, they must be stored away from strong-smelling foods. Place the container in a section of the refrigerator where odors are less likely to transfer, or in the freezer, wrap the container in an additional layer of plastic wrap to minimize exposure to external smells.
Practical Tips for Ultimate Freshness
Here are some additional tips to help keep macarons fresh and maintain their delightful texture.
- Take the time to enjoy Macarons are not just any cookie, they are an experience. You get the best of the flavors when you let your macaron come to room temperature – the delicate balance of textures is most pronounced.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Sunlight can alter the colors and flavors of macarons and contribute to moisture, so store them away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place.
- Individual wrapping: If you’re transporting macarons long distance, consider individually wrapping each macaron before placing them in the container. This extra layer can offer additional protection against moisture and physical damage.
Enjoy Some Now and Save Some for Later
By choosing the right container and implementing proper storage techniques, you can confidently store and keep macarons fresh, allowing you to extend your enjoyment of these delightful treats. The best way, however, to enjoy macarons is to consume them when they are fresh. If you don’t want to worry about keeping macarons fresh, the best way is to stop by your local Le Macaron French Pastries location.
If you don’t have a Le Macaron French Pastries store near you, perhaps you should consider opening a location so you can always enjoy delicious macarons at their freshest. For more information about opening a Le Macaron French Pastries franchise, fill out the inquiry form on our website.