Banana & Chocolate ganache

Ingredients

Ganache

140 grams (5 ounces) milk chocolate

30 grams (1 ounce or 2 tablespoons) cream (33% fat)

16 grams (0.56 ounces or 1 tablespoon) butter

60 grams (2.1 ounces or 1 small banana) banana

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1: Combine the milk chocolate with the cream in a heatproof bowl, and gently heat until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning. Tip: You can use a microwave in short bursts or a double boiler for gentle, even heating.

Step 2

Step 2: Add the butter to the chocolate mixture, and stir until it is fully melted and incorporated.

Step 3

Step 3: Add the banana to the mixture and blend until smooth using an immersion blender or stand blender.

Step 4

Step 4: Cover the ganache with plastic wrap, ensuring that the wrap is in contact with the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for 6-8 hours to allow it to stabilize. Tip: Allowing the ganache to stabilize overnight can improve its texture and flavor.

Step 5

Step 5: Once the ganache has set, use it to fill macaron shells, then refrigerate the assembled macarons to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: Macarons usually taste better after a day or two in the fridge, as this allows the flavors to develop fully.

Servings

These Banana Chocolate Ganache Macarons are not just any pastries—they're bite-sized pieces of heaven. To make them shine, serve them on a beautiful platter lined with parchment paper. For an added touch, dust lightly with cocoa powder or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Pair them with freshly brewed espresso for a luxurious afternoon treat, or alongside a glass of champagne for a sparkling celebration. Hosting a dessert buffet? Arrange macarons in tiers, making them the centerpiece, and watch them disappear in minutes!

If you're thinking of gifting, nestle these macarons in a charming box with decorative tissue paper. They make for thoughtful, irresistible, DIY gifts. Alternatively, you can create mini macaron towers using toothpicks and a styrofoam cone for an eye-catching dessert table piece. Now that's how you make a statement with your sweets!

Equipment

Mixer

A stand mixer or a hand mixer will make blending the ganache smooth and effortless.

Double Boiler

A double boiler helps in gently melting the chocolate without burning it, preserving the rich flavor.

Food Blender

A blender will be needed to combine all the ingredients into a silky ganache.

Plastic Wrap

Cover the ganache with plastic wrap to keep it from crusting as it stabilizes in the fridge.

Variations

If you're catering to a gluten-free crowd, worry not! You can use gluten-free ingredients for the shells which are normally made from almond flour, and the ganache itself is naturally gluten-free. Vegan friends on your invite list? The ganache can be made using dark chocolate, coconut cream instead of dairy cream, and plant-based butter. Bananas remain a perfect ingredient, offering that creamy texture without any animal products. A quick blitz in the blender and you're set with vegan-friendly bites that nobody can resist!

Faq

How do I prevent the macarons from cracking?
Ensure your meringue is perfectly whipped and allow the macaron shells to rest and form a skin before baking.
Can I use any type of chocolate for the ganache?
For best results, use good quality milk chocolate. However, you can experiment with dark or white chocolate based on your preference.
What should I do if my ganache splits?
Add a splash of warm cream and whisk vigorously to bring it back together.
Can I flavor the macaron shells?
Yes, but be cautious with liquid flavorings. Use dry flavorings like cocoa powder, or zest for best results.
How can I achieve consistent macaron sizes?
Use a macaron template under your parchment paper or silicone baking mat for uniformity.
Can I freeze macarons?
Yes, you can freeze filled macarons. Keep them in an airtight container and defrost in the refrigerator before serving.