Final answer:
French meringue should be used immediately after mixing to prevent deflation and maintain its light and airy texture.
Step-by-step explanation:
French meringue is a type of meringue made by whipping egg whites and gradually adding sugar until stiff peaks form. Once the French meringue is mixed and achieves the desired consistency, it's typically best to use it immediately.
Using French meringue right after mixing ensures that it maintains its volume, stability, and texture. Waiting too long before using it might cause the meringue to lose some of its volume or stability, leading to a less desirable texture when used in recipes like soufflés, pavlovas, or topping for pies.
If you need to prepare it in advance, it's advisable to use the French meringue as soon as possible after preparation. However, if storing is necessary, it can be refrigerated for a short period in an airtight container, but it's essential to use it promptly to maintain its quality and consistency.