Macarons and macaroons have almost identical names, so they often get confused with one another. However, these cookies have wildly different recipes, appearances, and flavors. Here’s a closer look at some of the key differences between these delicacies.

Macarons

Macarons consist of two flat, rounded cookies with a layer of filling sandwiched in between. They’re made with almond flour, sugar, egg whites, salt, and vanilla extract, then filled with fruit curd, ganache, or buttercream. Bakers also throw food coloring into the mix to give the macarons an array of bright hues. The color often visually represents the filling flavor. For example, a lemon-filled macaron may be yellow.

These sweet treats originated in Italy during the Middle Ages and were eventually brought to France by Catherine de’ Medici. The French have adored macarons ever since, and many bakers in the country have created their own unique variations.

Macaroons

Macaroons are made with shredded coconut, vanilla extract, condensed milk, eggs whites, and salt. Once baked and cooled, they’re often dipped in chocolate. These crunchy-textured cookies can also be traced back to Italy. They were originally made in monasteries and also brought to France later by Catherine de’ Medici.

Later, Jewish people in Italy started eating macaroons during Passover because the cookies don’t require flour or leavening. Other European Jews eventually found out about macaroons and brought the tradition with them as they immigrated to the United States.

If you’re looking for either macarons or macaroons, stop by The BonBonerie, a bakery that’s been serving Cincinnati, OH, for over 30 years. They offer everything from delicious cookies and cupcakes to wedding cakes and lemon tarts. They bake everything from scratch with the finest ingredients and treat their customers like family. These bakers have received more than 20 awards from publications like CityBeat, TripAdvisor, Cincinnati Magazine, and The Knot. For more information about their delicious treats, call (513) 321-3399 or visit their website.