How to Store Macaroons: The Ultimate Guide
Macarons are delicate and delicious treats made from light meringue cookies filled with delicious buttercream. Whether you enjoy homemade macarons or indulge in the colorful varieties found in bakeries, it’s important to know how to store them properly to preserve their freshness and flavor. This ultimate guide will provide you with essential macaron storage tips and techniques to ensure you never have to deal with soggy or stale macarons again.
Preparing Homemade Macarons for Storage
Perfecting the art of making macarons takes time and effort, but the results are well worth it. If you plan to make macarons in advance for a party or just can’t resist buying a box from the bakery, proper storage is crucial. Follow these steps to prepare your homemade macaroons for storage:
- Make sure your storage container has an airtight lid and is clean and completely dry.
- Place a layer of parchment paper in the container, covering the bottom and folding up the sides.
- Place your macaroons in a single layer on the parchment paper, making sure they do not touch.
- Gently fold the parchment paper from the sides over the edges of the macaroons.
- Place another layer of parchment paper over the top of the macaroon.
- Secure the lid tightly to the container to prevent air from getting in.
It is recommended that you store your macaroons in a single layer to maintain their perfect condition. However, if you’re making a large batch for a party, carefully stack the layers of macaroons in the container. To prevent the layers of macaroons from sticking together, use a layer of plastic wrap between each macaroon.
Choosing the right containers for storing macaroons
Macaroons are sensitive to air and moisture, which can cause them to become stale and soggy. It is therefore important to choose the right container for storing macaroons. Consider the following factors when choosing a container:
- Airtight: Use a container that is airtight to prevent air from entering and affecting the texture and flavor of the macaroons.
- Clean and dry: Make sure the container is clean and completely dry to avoid any moisture that could ruin the macaroons.
- Shallow: Ideally, choose a shallow container to store macaroons in a single layer. Containers designed for sandwiches or pasta sheets are suitable in terms of depth.
- Dedicated boxes: Specialty bakery and housewares stores offer purpose-built boxes with indentations to hold each individual macaron. These boxes provide optimal conditions for storage and transport.
Store macaroons at room temperature
Homemade macaroons can stay fresh and crisp for up to 24 hours at room temperature if stored properly. This is especially useful if you are making a large batch for a party, as it allows you to prepare them a day in advance without taking up excessive refrigerator space. Follow these steps to store macaroons at room temperature:
- Make sure the macaroons are completely cooled.
- Place the macaroons in a suitable airtight container.
- Store the container in a cool, dark cupboard.
Remember to check that the filling in your macaroons can be stored at room temperature. Store-bought macaroons often come in containers suitable for room temperature storage, so transferring them to a new container may not be necessary. Always check the instructions that came with your store-bought macaroons for specific storage guidelines.
Storing Macaroons in the Refrigerator
Homemade macaroons can stay crisp and fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. Whether you store them as empty shells or filled, it’s important to consider the shelf life of the filling. Follow these steps to store macaroons in the refrigerator:
- Allow the macaroons to cool completely.
- Place in a suitable airtight container.
- Place the container on the middle shelf of the refrigerator to maintain a consistent temperature.
Empty macaroon shells will keep fresh for 4-6 days in the refrigerator. However, filled macaroons may not last as long due to the moisture content of the filling, which can cause them to become soggy. For best results, assemble and fill your macaroons the day before serving. Remember to remove the macaroons from the refrigerator at least 20 minutes before serving to bring them to room temperature. Keep them in their container until just before serving.
For store-bought macaroons, check the instructions provided for specific refrigeration guidelines.
Storing Macaroons in the Freezer
Freezing is an excellent way to store macaroons for extended periods of time without compromising their texture or flavor. Whether you are making macaroons in advance or have leftovers that you want to preserve, freezing is a great option. Follow these steps to store macaroons in the freezer:
- Allow the macaroons to cool completely.
- Place in a suitable airtight container or freezer bag.
- Seal the container or bag tightly to prevent freezer burn and moisture absorption.
- Label the container or bag with the freezing date for easy reference.
- Place the macaroons in the freezer, preferably in a single layer.
Macaroons will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, remove the macaroons from the freezer and allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours. Once thawed, allow to come to room temperature before serving.
Tips for maintaining macaroon quality
To ensure the best quality and flavor of your macaroons during storage, follow these tips:
- Avoid excessive handling: Handle macaroons as little as possible to prevent damage or moisture absorption.
- Separate Flavors: When storing different flavors of macaroons together, consider using dividers or separate containers to prevent flavor transfer.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store macaroons in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to preserve their color and texture.
- Do not refrigerate decorations: If your macarons are decorated with delicate toppings such as fresh fruit or edible flowers, add them just before serving to prevent wilting or discoloration.
Conclusion
Knowing how to store macarons properly is essential to preserving their freshness, texture, and flavor. Whether you’re making macarons at home or buying them from a store or bakery, following proper storage techniques will help keep your macarons delicious for longer. Remember to consider factors such as container selection, storage temperature, and duration when storing macaroons at room temperature, in the refrigerator, or in the freezer. By following the tips in this ultimate guide, you can enjoy macarons at their best whenever you want.
FAQS
Can I store macaroons at room temperature?
Yes, you can store macaroons at room temperature for up to 24 hours, as long as they are stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
How long can I keep macaroons in the refrigerator?
Macaroons will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, keep in mind that the moisture from the filling may cause them to soften slightly over time.
Can I freeze macaroons?
Absolutely! Freezing macaroons is an excellent way to store them for longer periods of time. They can be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Should I store filled macaroons differently than empty ones?
While both can be stored using the same methods, filled macaroons may become slightly softer due to the moisture from the filling. It’s best to assemble and fill macaroons the day before serving for optimal texture.
How do I defrost frozen macaroons?
To thaw frozen macaroons, simply remove them from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator for a few hours. Once thawed, let them come to room temperature before serving.
Can I store different flavors of macaroons together?
Storing different flavors of macaroons together can result in flavor transfer. It’s recommended to use dividers or separate containers to keep the flavors distinct during storage.