French macarons are among the most delicate desserts in existence. Their light, airy texture is a huge part of what draws people into trying these delightful treats!
So, what makes a flavorful macaron so tempting and exotic? While most would say it’s the myriad of flavors they come in, it’s actually the meringue that their shells are made with that keep people coming back for more.
If you’ve ever seen any baking show, then you know that a great meringue can complete a dessert. Here’s a look at what meringues actually are, and why perfecting a meringue is one of the most difficult feats in macaron baking!
What Goes Into a Meringue?
A general French meringue has only two simple ingredients:
Egg Whites
Sugar
Two ingredients sounds simple enough, but the process of beating the ingredients into the desired stiff peaks of a meringue is often one that comes with a lot of trial and error with DIY bakers.
This is especially true when it comes to perfecting a meringue for macarons. A French meringue is a very delicate concoction. If over whipped or under whipped, your macaron shells could come out with no feet, or cracked and hollow.
However, once perfected, you’ll have the shells of a perfect French macaron that will leave tasters asking for more.
Can Other Meringues Be Used for Macarons?
Although Chelles Macarons practices the fine art of perfecting the French macaron, there are two other meringues that hail from different parts of the world. However, only one of them is suitable for crafting macarons.
Italian Meringue
With an Italian meringue, bakers will start the process by creating a sugar syrup that substitutes for the straight sugar in a French meringue. This sugar syrup is heated up to 118 degrees Celsius and is gradually poured into your egg whites while they are whisked.
Some bakers like to heat up their egg whites with this method because it creates a more stable meringue that makes piping the macaron shells a little less stressful.
Swiss Meringue
Although a Swiss meringue isn’t something that a baker would use in a macaron, we felt that it was only right to leave this tasty dessert staple in our meringue mentions.
Swiss meringue is a more dense meringue than its French and Italian counterparts and is often used in the creation
So, Which is the Better Macaron Meringue?
Honestly, while we are purveyors of French macarons, the choice is really up to personal tastes. For a smoother look and an extra bite of sweetness, Italian macarons may be your choice.
However, if you want a true delicacy that is molded with care and professionalism, you should definitely stop by our Plano and Dallas locations for a taste of the real deal!
Skip the Mixer and Stop in at Chelles for a True Taste of Macarons
Creating a meringue that turns out perfect for macarons can take practice session upon practice session. Don’t let your craving for a delicious macaron become a laborious task! Order a delicious macaron from Chelles Macarons today!!
Contact us today to place your order. Our shipping policy is easy and ensures that macaron lovers nationwide can enjoy a taste of the best desserts in Texas.