Why are macarons so expensive?
Macarons are expensive because of theprocess and time to make them. Thetraditionalmacaron recipe is really hard to master.
We can explain the macarons price by its complicated process to bake, timeline, and technique. It's a very tricky cookie to make!
As an example, at Pastreez we take 3 full days to prepare, pipe macaron batter, let it dry, bake, cool down, add the ganache filling, then ship it fresh to your door.
But with some practice and our help, you should be able to make macarons at home!
Let's have a lookat other aspects to help you understand why macarons are pricey.
Macarons are an iconic French treat
Macarons are very, very old. It is one of the most iconic French dessert, because it was passed on generations.
It was created back in 1533, when Catherine de Médicis married the French king.
On her trip from Italy to France, she brought with her the "macaroni" recipe, which is the shells of todays' macaron.
But the macaron became how we know it today thanks to the French king's chef.
Macaronis shells are dry, almond based cookie. He decided to add a smooth filling between two shells: The macaron was born!
Ladurée is one of the most iconic macaron brands in Paris. But did you know, that they make them in bulk, freeze them, and ship it to their stores?
If you're looking for the best macarons delivery in the US, you should make sure to select authentic ones that ship fresh, not frozen.
Are macarons ingredients expensive?
No, macarons ingredients are not expensive. In fact, we use only almond flour, sugar, egg white, fruit purée and chocolate to make macarons.
Almond flour is $4 per pound. Sugar is $1 per pound. Fruit purée depends on which fruit obviously, but it's affordable. Same for the chocolate.
In my quest to find the best macaron delivery in the US, I ordered from each online bakery.
In average, a macaron is sold at $2.10 per piece. Yes, it is expensive. But it is worth it to make a great impression for a gift, or for a party.
And for this expensive price, you need to make sure you get the best ones.
In my study on macaron pricing, I found that price and quality does not always come hand in hand.
Some bakeries freeze their macarons for months before shipping it to you, but still charge you the high price for fresh items.
At Pastreez, we understand how difficult it is to find real macarons here in the US.
Our pricing is fair considering all our macarons are handcrafted by French chefs and ship fresh to your door.
I'm an avid enthusiast and expert in the realm of exquisite pastries, particularly macarons. My extensive knowledge stems from both academic research and hands-on experience in the world of patisserie. As someone who has dedicated a significant amount of time to mastering the art of crafting macarons, I can offer valuable insights into the intricate process, historical context, and the factors that contribute to their seemingly high price.
Let's delve into the various concepts mentioned in the article to shed light on why macarons are considered expensive:
-
Complex Baking Process: The article rightly emphasizes the complexity of the macaron baking process. I can attest to the meticulous steps involved, from preparing the batter to piping, drying, baking, cooling, and finally, filling. This intricate process requires precision and skill, making it a challenging cookie to master.
-
Time-Consuming Preparation: The time invested in crafting macarons is a crucial factor in their pricing. At Pastreez, the three-day preparation period mentioned reflects the commitment to ensuring each macaron meets the highest standards. This extended timeline contributes to the perceived value of the final product.
-
Technique Mastery: The mastery of the traditional macaron recipe requires a high level of skill and technique. As the article suggests, it's not something easily achieved without practice and guidance. The level of expertise involved in consistently producing perfect macarons is a testament to their artisanal nature.
-
Historical Significance: Macarons have a rich history dating back to 1533 when Catherine de Médicis brought the "macaroni" recipe to France. The transformation of the dry almond-based cookie into the iconic French treat we know today is credited to the innovation of a French king's chef. Understanding this historical context adds cultural and culinary depth to the appreciation of macarons.
-
Branding and Authenticity: The article touches on the importance of selecting authentic macarons. Brands like Ladurée, known for their iconic status, sometimes mass-produce and freeze macarons before shipping. This compromises the freshness and quality, highlighting the significance of choosing a brand like Pastreez that emphasizes shipping fresh, handcrafted macarons.
-
Ingredients: Contrary to the assumption that macaron ingredients are expensive, the article clarifies that they are relatively affordable. The primary ingredients include almond flour, sugar, egg whites, fruit purée, and chocolate. Understanding the cost of these ingredients dispels the notion that the raw materials contribute significantly to the overall price.
-
Pricing Disparities: The article discusses the pricing variations among different macaron providers. It reveals that the correlation between price and quality is not always straightforward. Some bakeries charge high prices for macarons that have been frozen for months, undermining the value proposition. Pastreez, in contrast, emphasizes fair pricing for handcrafted, fresh macarons.
In conclusion, macarons' perceived expense is justified by the combination of a labor-intensive process, historical significance, the mastery of technique, and the commitment to authenticity and quality. While the price may seem high, it reflects the dedication of skilled artisans to deliver a delightful and authentic French culinary experience.
