Macarons Vs. Macaroons: What Are The Differences?

Macarons and macaroons share a similar name, differentiated only by an extra vowel (there's an extra O in one of the two), and some commonalities, such as being popular sweet treats made from meringue and sugar. However, their differences are more pronounced, starting with their appearance and extending to their structure and preparation methods. Let's explore them together – without the usage of memes, although those are pretty funny, we have to admit.

What is a Macaron?

A macaron (pronounced "mah-kah-ROHN") is a delicate French pastry known for its smooth, domed top, ruffled edge (or "foot"), and vibrant colors. The history of the macaron dates back to the early 16th century when it was brought to France by Catherine de Medici‘s Italian pastry chefs. It wasn't until the 20th century that the modern version, consisting of two almond meringue discs sandwiched together with a filling, became popularized by the famous French patisserie Ladurée.

How is a Macaron Made?

Macarons are made from a mixture of almond flour, powdered sugar, and egg whites, which is piped into small rounds and baked to form a crisp shell with a chewy interior. The two shells are then filled with various fillings such as buttercream, ganache, or jam. The process is notoriously tricky, requiring precision and practice to perfect. Common flavors of macarons include vanilla, chocolate, pistachio, raspberry, and lemon, though they come in nearly every flavor imaginable. Macarons are known for their delicate balance of textures and their subtly sweet, often nutty flavor.

What is a Macaroon?

A macaroon (pronounced "mack-uh-ROON") is a distinctly different cookie, characterized by its rough, coconut-studded appearance. The macaroon's history can be traced back to an Italian monastery in the 9th century, eventually making its way to France. The modern coconut macaroon that we are familiar with today became popularized in the United States, where it is often associated with Jewish cuisine, especially during Passover due to its lack of leavening agents.

How is a Macaroon Made?

Macaroons are much simpler to make than macarons. They are typically made from sweetened shredded coconut, egg whites, and sugar, mixed together and scooped into mounds before baking. The result is a dense, chewy cookie with a crispy exterior. Sometimes, macaroons are dipped in chocolate, adding a layer of richness to the sweet and nutty coconut flavor. Variations can include ingredients like almonds, dried fruit, or even spices to add a unique twist to the traditional recipe.