Meringue and macaron
Hollow shells
3 likely causes, sorted by where the problem lives. Work down the list and change one variable at a time.
Likely causes
- techniqueOver-whipped meringue.
- equipmentOven too hot, or fluctuating.
- techniqueBatter under-mixed.
What to change
- Whip to firm but not dry.
- Bake at a lower and steadier temperature.
- Mix to the correct consistency.
- Try a different rack position.
Read it with the four domains in mind
FormulaThe recipe itself: ratios, quantities, and ingredient choice.
TechniqueWhat you did: mixing, shaping, timing, handling.
EnvironmentThe room: temperature, humidity, altitude, storage.
EquipmentThe gear: oven calibration, pans, mixer, tools.
Adapted from the master symptom matrices in Environmental Variables & Troubleshooting. General sourcing across these tables: Figoni (2011); Gisslen (2016); Corriher (2008); McGee (2004); Modernist Bread (2017); King Arthur Baking technical guides; BAKERpedia.
Other meringue symptoms
Weeping: liquid under the meringue
Beading: syrupy droplets on the surface
Cracked macaron shells
No feet
Deflated or flat meringue
Lumpy or grainy meringue
Cookies, Macarons & Petits Fours · Aeration & Mousse Systems · The full troubleshooting method · All 50 symptoms