As a pastry expert, I have had the pleasure of trying macarons from various bakeries in Southeast SC. These delicate and colorful French treats have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it's no surprise why. With their crisp shells, chewy centers, and endless flavor combinations, macarons are a true delight for the taste buds.
The Rise of Macarons
Macarons have been around for centuries, but it wasn't until the 2000s that they gained widespread popularity in the United States. These sweet treats were once reserved for special occasions and high-end bakeries, but now you can find them in almost every bakery and coffee shop. Macarons are made with almond flour, egg whites, and sugar, giving them a light and airy texture.The filling is where the magic happens – it can be anything from traditional buttercream to unique flavors like lavender or matcha.
The Search for the Best Macarons in Southeast SC
With so many bakeries offering macarons in Southeast SC, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go for the best selection. That's why I've narrowed down the top three bakeries that stand out for their delicious and diverse macaron offerings.The Cake Stand Bakery
The Cake Stand Bakery, located in Mount Pleasant, is a charming little bakery that specializes in custom cakes and desserts. But don't let their name fool you – their macarons are not to be missed. They offer a rotating selection of flavors, including classics like vanilla and chocolate as well as unique options like raspberry rose and lemon lavender.What sets The Cake Stand Bakery apart is their attention to detail.Each macaron is perfectly shaped and filled, making for a visually stunning treat. And the flavors are spot on – the raspberry rose macaron has just the right balance of tartness and sweetness, while the lemon lavender is a refreshing and unexpected combination.
WildFlour Pastry
Located in downtown Charleston, WildFlour Pastry is a must-visit for any macaron lover. This bakery offers a wide variety of flavors, from classic to seasonal. Their macarons are also gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions. One standout flavor at WildFlour Pastry is their salted caramel macaron.The saltiness of the caramel filling perfectly complements the sweetness of the shell, creating a perfect balance of flavors. And for those looking for something more unique, their lavender honey macaron is a must-try.
Bakehouse Charleston
Bakehouse Charleston, located in West Ashley, is known for their delicious pastries and bread. But their macarons are not to be overlooked. They offer a variety of flavors, including some unexpected ones like blackberry basil and blueberry lemon.What makes Bakehouse Charleston's macarons stand out is their texture.They have just the right amount of chewiness without being too dense. And the flavors are bold and well-balanced – the blackberry basil macaron has a subtle herbiness that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the shell.