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
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.
Instructions
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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.
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.