My macaron fever has not died down one little bit. In fact, the opposite seems to be happening. With each new batch I try, the more comfortable I become with these sometimes temperamental cookies, and the more I find myself wanting to make them. I’m constantly thinking of which flavor combination to try next. This particular combination occurred to me while I was thinking of spring-inspired treats. I adore little flecks of vanilla bean in just about any dessert, and in a macaron shell it makes my heart pitter-patter. Sandwiched with a jewel-toned raspberry filling, the combination is one I just couldn’t resist.
One important thing to know is that because the fruit filling has a lot more moisture than a standard buttercream or frosting that often fills macarons, it will effect the texture of the cookie the longer they are assembled. I learned this the hard way, by coming downstairs the morning after I made these beauties to find that all the leftover cookies had taken on a less than appealing mushy texture. And yes, I was going to have one for breakfast – can you blame me? The moral of the story is to fill just before serving…or eat all the macarons, pronto!
Quick housekeeping note: Thank you SO MUCH to all who entered the Earth Day giveaways. It was truly heartening to read all of the efforts, small and large, that my readers are making to help nurture our environment. It makes me so proud to “know” you all! If you looking for more changes you can make, I urge you to go back to the Earth Day post and read through the comments. There are some fantastic suggestions and I am so inspired! As for the winners, here they are:
The sets of RuMe bags go to:
Carolyn, who said, “I bring my own PBA-free Nalgene bottle every where I go so I never have to drink bottled drink. I’ve also started using cloth napkins and reusable rags for cleaning to eliminate paper towel waste. Any my big change for the year – I now ride the bus to work! Saves a LOT of gas, even though I don’t live that far from the office. Who knew?”
Julie, who said, “I just joined a CSA! I can’t wait for my first box! I also always use refilable water bottles and reusable bags. But my current ones are totally dingy and I could really use a new set.”
The Green B.E.A.N. Delivery gift certificates go to:
Amanda, who said, “In my home, we do a lot of recycling as far as paper, cans and glasses. We also always use our resueable shopping bags whenever possible. We have a nice garden in the summer (since weather in Indy in the winter is unbaearable) which helps us use lots of fresh produce, YUM! It would be AWESOME to win the Green Bean Giveaway, I have been wanting to try a service like this for a while.”
Kim, who said, “We started a compost pile last year and are joining our first CSA this year. I also use reusable grocery bags and recycle paper. I also use reusable water bottles. I’m excited because I just got a fuel-efficient car and can stack my errands to all be done at once while using less gas at the same time! I’m an Indy reader and would love the Green B.E.A.N. delivery!”