The 2009 October Daring Bakers’ challenge was brought to us by Ami S. She chose macaroons from Claudia Fleming’s The Last Course: The Desserts of Gramercy Tavern as the challenge recipe.
Let me start from the beginning...3 or so years ago Anna, my twin, decided to go to Paris for a long weekend because of great sales on airfare. Of course she invited me to go with her, but I thought it was ridiculous to go to the City of Love and Romance with my twin sister. I said "no." Then, of course, I changed my mind and bought the tickets. Yes, I change my mind often. Anna, her friend Jen, and I had an incredible time in Paris, despite the cold February weather.
Throughout the trip, Anna kept on mentioning that we simply must go to Laduree: on, and on she went. It was getting slightly ridiculous. And then, we got to Laduree: and OMG! It was so worth it: it was there that I had my firsts taste of macaroons (French, not American). And I was in love! Below are a few photos from that trip:
Then, 2 years ago, I was on a solo trip in San Francisco, and discovered great macaroons in the Ferry Terminal Building from Miette Patisserie--photo below.
For the last few years I have been contemplating making macaroons, but was too afraid. Imagine my excitement and trepidation when this month's challenge turned out to be macaroons!
I'm not posting the recipe here (it's a bit long), but if you want it, let me know and I'll email it to you.
I made my own almond flour, but used store-bought chocolate spread.
Taste-wise, the challenge was a success; look-wise, not so much.
As you can see, I did not get "feet" on my macaroons--they rather spread out.
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They also totally stuck to the silicon mat.
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I think I shall summon up a bit more bravery and try to make macaroons again at some point ;)
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