Mint ganache for macarons

Ingredients

Mint Ganache

20 grams (0.7 ounces) fresh mint

130 grams (4.6 ounces) cream (33%)

110 grams (3.9 ounces) white chocolate (32%)

10 grams (0.35 ounces) cocoa butter

Instructions

Step 1

Let's get started with our delightful mint ganache! This filling is perfect for macarons and is sure to please any mint lover.

Step 2

1. Pour the cream into a saucepan and add the fresh mint. Place over medium heat.

Step 3

Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent the cream from sticking to the bottom.

Step 4

2. Heat until the first signs of boiling appear, but do not let it fully boil. Remove from heat and let it infuse for 5 minutes.

Step 5

Infusing allows the mint flavor to deeply penetrate the cream.

Step 6

3. Heat the mixture again until the first boiling signs appear.

Step 7

Be patient and watch closely to prevent overcooking.

Step 8

4. Immediately pour the hot cream through a sieve into a bowl containing the melted white chocolate and cocoa butter. Stir with a spatula until smooth.

Step 9

Make sure the chocolate and cocoa butter are fully melted and ready for mixing.

Step 10

5. Cover the ganache with cling film, making sure it is in direct contact with the surface. Place the ganache in the fridge to stabilize for 12 hours.

Step 11

Covering the ganache directly helps prevent a skin from forming on the surface.

Step 12

6. Once the ganache has set, whisk it gently. Be careful not to whip.

Step 13

Whisking too vigorously can introduce air bubbles which may spoil the texture.

Step 14

7. Transfer the ganache to a pastry bag fitted with a nozzle and fill your macarons.

Step 15

Using a pastry bag makes filling the macarons easier and cleaner.

Step 16

8. Store the filled macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for 12 to 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 17

Letting the macarons sit allows them to soften slightly for the perfect bite.

Step 18

Bon Appetit!

Servings

**Serving Suggestions & Ideas 🥳**

Once you've got your mint ganache-filled macarons ready, it's time to think about serving them up in style! These delicate delights are perfect for special occasions and casual gatherings alike.

**🎂 Birthday Bash:** Place your macarons on a pretty cake stand alongside a celebratory cake. The mint flavor will complement many types of cakes, especially chocolate!

**☕ Afternoon Tea:** Serve your macarons with a pot of hot tea. Mint pairs well with various teas, from classic Earl Grey to refreshing green tea.

**🍷 Wine Pairing:** For a sophisticated twist, pair your macarons with a sweet dessert wine. The delicate mint flavor enhances the floral notes in many wines.

**🥂 Special Dinner Dessert:** End a dinner party on a high note by serving these macarons as a part of your dessert course. Add some fresh mint leaves as garnish for a touch of elegance.

Equipment

Saucepan

Choose a medium-sized saucepan with a heavy bottom to ensure even heating. This will prevent the cream from burning.

Sieve

A fine-mesh sieve is essential to strain the mint leaves out of the cream, ensuring a smooth ganache.

Mixing Bowls

Use heatproof bowls for mixing the hot cream with the chocolate and cocoa butter.

Spatula

A silicone spatula is perfect for stirring the ganache ingredients smoothly and scraping down the bowl.

Pastry Bag with Nozzle

A good quality pastry bag and nozzle will make filling the macarons easier and neater.

Airtight Container

Store your filled macarons in an airtight container to keep them fresh while they soak in the flavors.

Variations

**Gluten-Free & Vegan Variations 🌱**

Gluten-Free:**
Great news – this mint ganache recipe is already gluten-free! Just make sure your white chocolate is also gluten-free, and you'll be good to go.

Vegan:**
To make a vegan version of this delightful mint ganache, substitute the cream with full-fat coconut cream for a similar creamy texture. Use dairy-free white chocolate and skip the cocoa butter if it's not plant-based. The mint will still shine through beautifully!

Faq

How do I know when to remove the cream from the heat?
Keep a close eye on the cream and remove it from the heat just as it begins to show signs of boiling. Do not let it fully boil.
What if I don't have a pastry bag?
No worries! You can use a ziplock bag and cut a small hole in one corner as an alternative.
How can I make sure the ganache is smooth?
Stir the mixture thoroughly with a spatula until it's completely smooth, ensuring that the chocolate and cocoa butter are fully melted and incorporated.
Can I use peppermint extract instead of fresh mint?
While you can use peppermint extract, fresh mint gives a more natural and less overpowering flavor. If using extract, start with a few drops and adjust to taste.
How do I prevent over-whipping the ganache?
Whip the ganache slowly and gently just enough to incorporate air and achieve a smooth texture. Over-whipping can cause it to become grainy.
Can I make the ganache ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ganache and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to whisk it lightly before using it to fill macarons or other pastries.