How long do macarons last? A comprehensive guide
Macarons, the delightful French delicacy, are known for their soft and chewy texture with a slight crunch. Available in a wide variety of flavors, they have become a favorite treat for many. However, making macarons can be a challenging task, and once you’ve mastered the art of making them, it’s important to understand how long they can last. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the shelf life of macarons, proper storage methods, and tips for prolonging their freshness.
What are macarons?
Before we get into the details of macaron storage, let’s clarify what macarons are. Many people often confuse macarons with macaroons, but they are different treats. Macarons are two meringue-based cookies made from almond flour, while macaroons are single cookies made from desiccated coconut. It’s important to understand the difference between the two to avoid confusion when searching for recipes or troubleshooting macaron-related issues.
Macaron Ingredients
To understand how long macaroons can last, it’s important to examine their composition. The main ingredients in macaroons are almond flour (meal) and egg whites. Other components of the base include powdered or confectioner’s sugar, granulated white sugar, and food coloring. The food coloring is important because it indicates the flavor of the filling. Macaroons can be flavored with a variety of fillings, both sweet and savory. The filling plays a crucial role in the flavor of the macaron, as the shell itself doesn’t retain much flavor after baking.
Do macaroons go bad?
Unfortunately, macaroons have a relatively short shelf life. Like any other food, macaroons are subject to deterioration due to moisture, oxygen and temperature. Bacteria thrive in the presence of these factors, leading to spoilage. To extend the shelf life of macaroons, it is essential to eliminate or control these elements.
How to store macaroons
Macaroons cannot be stored for long periods at room temperature. The ideal places to store macaroons are the refrigerator and the freezer. Storing macaroons in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer helps to eliminate oxygen and maintain a stable and cold temperature, preventing the growth of bacteria.
Storing macaron trays
If you only need the macaroon shells, you can store them individually in the refrigerator or freezer. In the refrigerator, the shells can last between 4-7 days, while in the freezer, they can last up to 6 months or even longer without the filling. To store the shells, follow these steps:
- Place the shells in a single layer in an airtight container.
- Place a piece of baking or wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
- Continue to layer the trays and paper until the container is full.
- Close the lid tightly to ensure an airtight seal.
- For added protection, wrap the container in plastic wrap or cling film.
- Store the container in a safe place away from odors.
Storing Assembled Macaroons
If you have already assembled the macaroons with the filling, you can still store them, but their shelf life will be shorter. To store assembled macaroons, follow these steps:
- Place the assembled macaroons in a single layer in an airtight container.
- Place a piece of baking paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
- Continue to layer the macaroons and paper until the container is full.
- Close the lid tightly to ensure an airtight seal.
- For added protection, wrap the container in plastic wrap or cling film.
- Store the container in a safe place away from odors.
Review: How long do macaroons last?
To summarize the shelf life of macarons based on storage methods:
- In the refrigerator:
- Shells only: 4-7 days
- Assembled: 2-4 days
- Freezer:
- Shells only: 6-8 months
- Assembled: 4-6 months
Freezing macaroons is the best way to extend their shelf life, and storing the shells and filling separately can further help preserve their freshness.
Mistakes to avoid when storing macaroons
To ensure the best storage conditions for macaroons, avoid the following mistakes:
- Avoid temperature fluctuations when storing macaroons to minimize condensation and preserve their quality.
- Always layer cookies or shells with waxed paper to prevent sticking and breakage.
- Do not store macaroons with garnishes as they may become soggy and lose their texture.
- Avoid storing macaroons near strong smelling foods as they may absorb odors and affect their flavor.
- Never store macaroons in open containers or loosely covered as they may dry out quickly and become stale.
- Do not leave macaroons at room temperature for too long as they may become soggy and lose their structural integrity.
Conclusion
Macaroons are delicious treats that require proper storage to maintain their freshness and flavor. Keeping them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer can greatly extend their shelf life. Remember to keep the shell and filling separate when possible, and take precautions to prevent moisture, oxygen, and temperature fluctuations. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your macarons for a long time and savor their delicate flavors.
FAQS
How long do macaroons keep in the refrigerator?
In the refrigerator, macaroons can last up to 1 week if stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze macaroons to extend their shelf life?
Yes, freezing macaroons is an excellent way to prolong their freshness. In the freezer, macaroons can last for several months, up to 6-8 months when stored in an airtight container.
Should I store macaroons with or without the filling?
For a longer shelf life, it is recommended to store the macaroon shells and the filling separately. This way you can freeze the shells without the filling and assemble them when needed.
Can I store assembled macaroons in the refrigerator?
Yes, you can store assembled macaroons in the refrigerator. However, they will have a shorter shelf life compared to storing the shells alone. Assembled macaroons can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-4 days.
How do I keep macaroons from getting soggy?
To prevent macaroons from getting soggy, it’s important to store them in an airtight container to minimize exposure to moisture. In addition, avoid storing them near foods with strong odors, as macaroons can absorb these odors and affect their texture.
What should I do if my macaroons get stale?
If your macaroons become stale, you can try rehydrating them by placing a slice of bread or a damp paper towel in the container of macaroons. The moisture from the bread or paper towel may help restore some of the freshness to the macaroons. Note, however, that this method may not work in all cases, and it’s best to consume macaroons while they’re fresh.