Another great experience during my creative sabbatical in Paris!
If you are a baking aficionado, you will enjoy this blog post! Macarons—I fell in love with this beauty during my second trip to Paris in 2019. I had taken my first macaron-baking class then and ate my way through Paris, visiting places like Ladurée and every other patisserie that served macarons. However, I had not appreciated the art of making them until now. Macarons are made to perfection. They are delicate, small, but flavourful pieces of heaven.
During my last trip to Paris in 2024, I signed up for baking classes at La Cuisine and Cook with Class, two English-speaking cooking schools. I loved the overall experience at these two locations, so I recommend both!
A Little Macaron History
I learned that macarons without a filling originated in Italy and other cultures. However, France enhanced the macaron concept by adding the filling with an "improved" macaron technique. Today, it is primarily recognized as a French pastry.
There are two techniques for making macarons: Italian and French, and I learned both methods!
I am so excited to continue developing my baking skills. Today, I am sharing the results of the macarons I baked with the chefs in Paris.
Macaron's made to perfection
Baking macarons requires embracing creativity, precision, calm, and patience. During the class, the French chef will not rush, and everything must be done perfectly without rushing. It felt like we were making an art piece, but a delicious one.
A Marie Antoinette Experience
It was such a fun experience baking and meeting an incredible group of people! The goal of the day was to make five different pastries representing Marie Antoinette's indulgences.
Once all the pastries were done, now it was time to celebrate with champagne and a unique hairstyle! After all, it was a themed baking class.
You see what happens when we are present. The art of slowing down allows us to have a childlike mind, where we do not judge the space or the people around us. Instead, we become curious and excited to participate in the present moment.
This journey has transformed me. I am filled with joy and anticipation for what lies ahead. The hard years have taught me valuable lessons, and I am ready to embrace life with a renewed spirit and macarons as a delightful part of my story.
Cheers to new beginnings, happiness, and the endless possibilities that await!
À bientôt!