Margarete (fake macarons)

Delicious Margaretes (Fake Macarons)

If you're craving something sweet and elegant but don't want to complicate yourself with the traditional macaron recipe, this margarete recipe is exactly what you need! These treats, resembling macarons, are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from parties to weekend snacks. With a soft texture and sweet flavor, these margaretes will surely impress anyone who tastes them.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 12-14 minutes
Total time: 24 hours (including drying time)
Number of servings: 20-24 margaretes

Ingredients

- 2 whole eggs
- 140 g powdered sugar
- 140 g white flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- essence (to taste)
- food coloring (optional)

Necessary utensils

- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Silicone spatula
- Piping bag
- Macaron tray or baking paper
- Sifter for sugar and flour

History of Margaretes

Although inspired by the famous macarons, margaretes are a more accessible yet equally delicious version. These pastries have become popular due to their fine texture and endless possibilities for flavoring and coloring. Whether you're preparing them for a celebration or a sweet snack, margaretes are a wonderful choice to add a touch of elegance to your life.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the mixture

Start by cracking the two eggs into a large bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat them together for 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla sugar and continue mixing until the mixture becomes frothy and doubles in volume.

Tip: Make sure the eggs are at room temperature, as this will help achieve a fluffier texture.

Step 2: Incorporating the powdered sugar

Sift the powdered sugar over the egg mixture in three batches, mixing well after each addition. Continue mixing for about 20 minutes or until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes glossy and firm.

Step 3: Adding the flour

At this point, add the sifted flour over the egg mixture. Use a silicone spatula to gently fold it in with slow bottom-up movements to avoid losing air from the mixture.

Step 4: Coloring and flavoring

If you want to add a splash of color, now is the time! Add the food coloring and the chosen essence (e.g., vanilla, almond, lemon) and continue to mix until the mixture is uniformly colored.

Step 5: Shaping the margaretes

Prepare the baking tray by covering it with baking paper. Using a piping bag, form uniform discs of about 3-4 cm on the paper. Leave about 2-3 cm of space between each disc, as they will expand slightly during baking.

Step 6: Drying

Let the tray with margaretes dry at room temperature for 24 hours. This step is essential to achieve a crispy crust on the outside and a soft texture inside.

Step 7: Baking

Preheat the oven to 140°C. After they have dried, place the tray in the oven and bake the margaretes for 12-14 minutes. They will be ready when they easily come off the paper and have a firm crust.

Step 8: Cooling and filling

Remove the tray from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Then, carefully remove the margaretes from the paper. You can fill them with various creams: chocolate, vanilla, or a flavored cream cheese.

Serving suggestions

These margaretes are delicious served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can also offer them as dessert at a party, where they will surely attract all eyes.

Possible variations

- Cocoa margaretes: Replace part of the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolatey version.
- Fruit margaretes: Add fruit puree to the mixture for varied flavors.
- Nut margaretes: Replace part of the flour with almond or nut flour for an interesting texture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Why is it important to let the margaretes dry?
Drying helps form the outer crust, thus preventing cracking during baking.

2. How can I tell if the margaretes are ready?
They should be firm to the touch and easily come off the paper.

3. What can I use instead of food coloring?
You can use natural coloring powders, such as beet powder for a pink hue or spirulina powder for green.

Nutrition

These margaretes have about 50-60 calories each, depending on the filling. The white flour provides carbohydrates, while the eggs bring protein. Although they are a dessert, when consumed in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet.

I hope this margarete recipe inspires you to showcase your cooking skills and enjoy a simple yet elegant dessert! Don't forget to share the result with your loved ones, as cooking is an art best enjoyed in the company of others. Enjoy!