If you've ever brought home a box of macarons from Jenna Rae Cakes, you've probably paused at the counter for a second thought: how long do these actually last?
It’s a great question, especially when something looks (and tastes) this special. The short answer is that macarons are best enjoyed fresh, but they can absolutely be stored for later with the right care. The slightly longer answer is that how long macarons last depends on how you store them, whether they’re refrigerated or frozen, and how soon you plan to enjoy them.
Let’s break it all down so every bite tastes just as perfect as the moment you picked them up.
The Short Answer: Macarons Are Best Fresh
At Jenna Rae Cakes, we always recommend enjoying macarons within a few days of purchase for the best texture and flavour experience.
Fresh macarons have that perfect contrast we love: a delicate shell with a soft, chewy centre and a smooth, flavour-packed filling. As time passes, the shells naturally absorb a bit of moisture from the filling, which softens the texture.
That doesn’t mean they go bad quickly. It simply means the texture evolves, and macarons are at their absolute peak when they’re fresh.
How Long Do Macarons Last in the Fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, macarons typically last about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.
The fridge helps preserve freshness, but it also gently changes the texture over time. The shells soften slightly as they absorb moisture from the filling, creating a more cake-like bite compared to the original delicate crispness.
For best results:
- Keep them in an airtight container
- Store them away from strong-smelling foods
- Let them sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before eating
That final step is key. Macarons are at their flavour peak when they’re not ice-cold, allowing the buttercream-based filling to soften for a creamy bite.
Can You Freeze Macarons?
Yes, and this is one of the best-kept secrets of macaron lovers. Macarons freeze beautifully. When stored properly, macarons can last up to 1 month in the freezer without losing their quality. This makes them perfect for planning ahead for events, gifting, or simply making sure you always have a sweet moment waiting for you at home.
To freeze macarons:
- Place them in an airtight container
- Separate layers with parchment paper if stacking
- Store them in the freezer away from strong odours
To enjoy them again:
- Move them to the fridge and let them thaw slowly for a few hours
- Then bring them to room temperature before serving
The slow thaw is what helps preserve their texture and flavour.
Why Macaron Maturing Matters So Much
At Jenna Rae Cakes, our macarons are made fresh daily through a full production process that runs across multiple shifts. Our baking team starts as early as 5 a.m. preparing shells, and by the time our closing team finishes filling and storing them later in the evening, each macaron has already passed through many careful hands.
But what many people don’t realize is that macarons also have a maturing or aging process that’s just as important as the baking itself. Once filled, our macarons rest in the freezer for approximately 24 to 48 hours. During this time, the filling gently transfers moisture into the shells, softening the interior while maintaining that delicate outer structure. This is what creates the signature contrast of a lightly crisp shell with a soft, chewy centre, while also allowing the flavours to fully marry and deepen.
We allow macarons to mature so they reach their absolute peak before they ever leave our kitchen and land in our pastry cases. The result is a macaron that isn’t just freshly made, but perfectly finished. These aren’t shelf-stable cookies designed for long-term storage. They’re delicate, handcrafted pastries meant to be enjoyed exactly as they were intended: at their very best.
What Happens to Macarons Over Time?
Macarons don’t “expire” quickly in the traditional sense when stored properly, but they do change. Here’s what you might notice over time:
- The shell becomes softer as it absorbs moisture from the filling
- Flavours may mellow slightly
- The texture shifts from crisp-chewy to more uniformly soft
Some people actually prefer this slightly aged texture, especially after a day or two in the fridge. It creates a softer, almost melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you’re after that signature Jenna Rae Cakes macaron texture, fresh is always best.
Do Different Flavours Last Differently?
At Jenna Rae Cakes, we offer six classic macaron flavours year-round, along with four to six rotating seasonal and limited-edition flavours. While all macarons follow the same general storage guidelines, fillings can slightly influence how they age:
- Buttercream-based fillings (used in all of our macarons) help maintain structure and balance
- Add-ins like fruit purées, caramel, or ganache can gently affect softness over time
That buttercream base is intentional. It helps create a consistent, balanced bite from the first day to the last.
A Quick Note on Gluten-Friendly Options
Many of our macaron flavours are naturally gluten-free, which makes them a popular choice for customers looking for gluten-free treats.
Because macarons are made with almond flour instead of wheat flour, they’re naturally suited to gluten-free diets for many flavours. However, not all flavours are gluten-free, and all products are made in a kitchen that handles gluten-containing ingredients. If you ever have questions, our team is always happy to help you choose.
How to Store Macarons Properly (Without Overthinking It)
If you’re bringing macarons home from Jenna Rae Cakes, here’s the simplest way to keep them at their best:
- Keep them in their original box if you’re eating them within a day
- Transfer to an airtight container if storing longer
- Refrigerate for short-term storage
- Freeze for long-term storage
And most importantly, always let them come to room temperature or just below before enjoying. That’s when the texture, aroma, and flavour truly shine.
Shop Jenna Rae Cakes Macarons
Whether you’re planning ahead or treating yourself in the moment, our macarons are available year-round.
👉 Shop The Full Macaron Collection Online
With six classic flavours and rotating seasonal creations, there’s always something new to fall in love with.
Visit Us In Winnipeg
You can find Jenna Rae Cakes macarons at all of our Winnipeg locations:
Each location carries our classic macarons, ready to take home or gift.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do macarons last at room temperature?
Macarons are best enjoyed fresh, but they can typically sit at room temperature for about 1 day if kept in a cool, dry environment.
Do macarons go bad in the fridge?
Not quickly. They typically last 3–5 days refrigerated, but their texture will soften over time.
Can you eat frozen macarons?
Yes. Once thawed properly, frozen macarons taste nearly identical to fresh ones, making freezing a great long-term storage option.
What is the best way to store macarons?
The best method depends on timing: room temperature for same-day enjoyment, refrigeration for a few days, and freezing for long-term storage.
Why do macarons get soft?
Macarons naturally absorb moisture from their filling over time, which softens the shell and changes the texture.
