Do Macarons Need to Be Refrigerated?

They are delicate and delicious treats that come in a variety of flavors and colors. They are perfect for parties, gifts, or just indulging yourself. But have you ever wondered how to store macarons properly? Do macarons need to be refrigerated? And how long do they last in the fridge? Well, wonder no more, because I’m here to tell you everything you need to know about macaron storage.

Macarons only need to be refrigerated if you aren’t going to eat them right away. Macarons can be stored at room temperature in a sealed container for 2-3 days. If you need to store them for longer, you can keep them in your fridge for up to a week in an airtight container. You can also freeze macarons for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag or container.

What’s in Macarons?

Macarons are French pastries that consist of two almond-based meringue cookies sandwiched together with a filling of ganache, buttercream, jam, or cream. They are often confused with macaroons, which are coconut-based cookies that are chewy and moist.

Macarons are notoriously difficult to make, as they require precise measurements, timing, and technique. They are also sensitive to humidity and temperature changes, which can affect their appearance and texture.

Macarons come in many flavors and colors, such as vanilla, chocolate, pistachio, lemon, raspberry, lavender, rose, and more. They are usually round and smooth on the top, with a ruffled edge called a “foot” on the bottom.

How to Store Macarons

The way you store your macarons depends on how soon you plan to eat them and how long you want them to last. Here are some general guidelines on how to store different types of macarons:

• Store-bought macarons: If you buy macarons from a bakery or a store, they will usually come in a box or a bag with an expiration date. You can follow the instructions on the package or use your own judgment based on the appearance and smell of the macarons. Generally, store-bought macarons can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Homemade macarons: If you make macarons at home, you can either store them whole or separate the shells and the filling. Storing them whole will allow the flavors to meld together and create a softer texture, while storing them separately will preserve their crispiness and freshness. You can store homemade macarons at room temperature for 2-3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Filled or unfilled macarons: Whether you store your macarons filled or unfilled will depend on the type of filling you use and your personal preference. Some fillings, such as ganache or jam, are more stable and can be stored at room temperature for longer than others, such as buttercream or cream, which may spoil faster and need refrigeration. Some people prefer to fill their macarons just before serving them, while others like to let them mature in the fridge for a day or two.

How to Pack Macarons

Macarons are fragile and delicate pastries that can easily break or crumble if not packed properly. Here are some tips on how to pack macarons for storage:

• Use an airtight container or bag: This will prevent moisture and air from entering and affecting your macarons. It will also protect them from odors and flavors from other foods in your fridge or freezer.
• Use parchment paper or wax paper: This will prevent your macarons from sticking together or to the container. You can also use cupcake liners or paper muffin cups to separate your macarons.
• Use layers: If you have more than one layer of macarons in your container, make sure to place parchment paper or wax paper between each layer. This will prevent them from crushing each other or losing their shape.
• Use padding: If you are transporting your macarons or shipping them to someone else, you may want to use some extra padding to cushion them from bumps and shocks. You can use bubble wrap, tissue paper, cotton balls, or even marshmallows to fill any gaps in your container.

FAQs

• How can you tell if macarons are bad? Macarons can go bad if they are exposed to heat, light, moisture, or bacteria. Some signs of spoiled macarons include mold growth, foul odor, change in color or texture, or loss of flavor. If you see any of these signs, discard the macarons immediately and do not eat them.
• How do you thaw frozen macarons? You can thaw frozen macarons by transferring them from the freezer to the fridge and letting them sit for a few hours or overnight. You can also thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes, but be careful not to let them get too warm or humid.
• How do you refresh stale macarons? You can refresh stale macarons by placing them in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness and moisture. You can also sprinkle some water on them before baking to add some humidity.

Final Thoughts

Now you know how to store macarons properly and how long they last in the fridge. You also know what types of macarons need to be refrigerated and what types do not. By following these tips, you can enjoy your sweet and colorful macarons for a long time.