A Cooking Class . . . As A Student

One of my favorite cookies are

Macarons

They're French, they're yummy, they're colorful

And they're expensive!

I tried my hand at making them a few years ago

And they turned out although I didn't have all the nuances

for making these tasty French treats!

Because of being so colorful they were perfect for Easter

But I also found a source in the city for these wonderful goodies:

A charming little shop

 And I would buy a few if I were in the city and near the store

Then on Thursday . . . 

I was in Natasha's kitchen!

There to learn how to make macarons!

With friend Vonnie and four other students

Vonnie was the high bidder on a package that included this cooking class

And I was the lucky person that got to go with her!

I felt very fortunate to be included!

Vicki and Natasha were great teachers

And the recipe was in true bakery language

for it was in weight rather than amount!

We . . . 

Whipped egg whites

And heated syrup

And mixed the two together until it was the perfect macaron consistency.

We then piped them onto parchment paper  . . .

Ready for the oven after they "cured"

And while they rested and cured, we turned our hand at Italian buttercream

for the filling

We chose  four flavors:

Champagne, strawberry, pistacchio and almond

Finally, the "tops and bottoms" were done and out of the oven

We piped the filling and made the little sandwich cookies

I think they look quite professional!

 And we each got a box to take home!

And my box . . . 

Was brought out for tea Friday afternoon

Looking quite professional in Natasha's box

They were perfect for Friday afternoon tea

And for several more teas to come!

Will I make them again!

Definitely . . .

But not for me but rather when I have a tea party and I want a special treat for my guests

For they are a special cookie and not an everyday cookie jar cookie!

But I must admit that as long as my box lasts, macarons will be on my afternoon tea menu!