Ingredients
Chocolate Ganache









Cherry Compote with Whiskey





Instructions
Step 1
In a tall, narrow cup, mix all the ingredients for the ganache except for the butter.
Heat in the microwave in short bursts until melted. Then, use a blender to blend for 1-2 minutes until a stable emulsion forms.
Allow the mixture to cool to 40°C (104°F) before adding the room temperature unsalted butter. Blend again until smooth.
Refrigerate for 6-8 hours to stabilize.
Step 2
Soak the dried cherries in whiskey for 10-15 minutes.
In a saucepan, combine the cherry puree with the cherry pieces and heat to 40°C (104°F). Gradually sprinkle in the mixture of pectin and sugar while stirring.
Bring the mixture to 80°C (176°F), then add the soaked cherries and whiskey. Continue cooking until it reaches a boil, then simmer for a couple of minutes.
Add the gelatin mixture and stir well. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to stabilize.
Servings
Once you've created your fabulous Drunken Cherry Macarons, consider serving them on a beautiful platter with a dusting of edible gold glitter to impress your guests. Pair these macarons with a steamy cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine for a truly indulgent experience. 😍✨
For a festive touch, why not create a cherry and chocolate-inspired charcuterie board? Surround your macarons with chocolate-covered cherries, dark chocolate shavings, and fresh fruits to create an eye-catching dessert spread that your guests won't forget!
Feeling adventurous? Set up a macaron tasting station where guests can sample different macarons and pair them with different drinks. Each bite will be an unforgettable experience! 🍷💖
Equipment
A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients smoothly.



Use a powerful blender to achieve that perfect chocolate ganache consistency.



The microwave comes in handy for gently melting chocolate without burning it.



Invest in reusable pastry bags for piping the macarons, they're more eco-friendly!
A silicone mat ensures your macarons don’t stick and helps with even baking.


Variations
If you're looking to switch things up, try making **gluten-free** and **vegan** variations of these incredible macarons! 🌱🥳
Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour in the macaron shells to maintain a delicious texture while making it safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan: Substitute the heavy cream in the ganache with coconut cream or a nut-based cream, and use aquafaba instead of egg whites in the macaron shells for a whipped consistency that holds up beautifully!
Faq
- What if my macarons crack while baking?
Cracked macarons can be a result of too much moisture or baking at too high a temperature. Make sure to dry your macarons before baking and maintain an even oven temperature.
- Can I make the ganache in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chocolate ganache up to a few days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before using it.
- What's the best way to fill macarons evenly?
Use a piping bag with a round tip to ensure even filling. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to fill a few to get your technique down!
- Is it okay to fill macarons right before serving?
It's actually best to let filled macarons mature in the fridge for at least 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the shells to soften slightly. Delicious!
- How do I know when my macarons are properly baked?
Your macarons should be firm on the outside and slightly sticky inside, with no wobble when touched. A good indicator is the iconic 'foot' that forms around the edges!
- Can I freeze macarons?
Yes, macarons freeze beautifully! Store them in an airtight container and they can last for up to three months in the freezer.