Discover the Joy of National Macaroon Day

Did you know National Macaroon Day is also National Happiness Day? This special day is celebrated on May 31 in the U.S. It honors a treat that started in 9th-century Italy. Today, macaroons are enjoyed with both traditional and modern flavors like dark chocolate and fruit.

Start making your own macaroons with 50% off classes on Etsy (code MACARONDAY through March 21). Fourthwall also has special offers. These deals are perfect for learning how to make these tasty treats.

Macaroons have come a long way from their almond paste roots. Thanks to chefs like Pierre Hermé, they now come in many colors and flavors. This guide will take you through their history, charity work, and how to host a tasting party.

Join in the celebration of flavor and giving. Then, bake your way into May’s sweetest tradition!

What is National Macaroon Day?

National Macaroon Day celebrates a sweet treat with a long history. It invites everyone to learn about the macaroon’s journey from ancient times to today’s desserts. The holiday’s exact start is unknown, but its impact on culture is clear.

Origins of the Celebration

The macaroon history started in Italian monasteries, where monks made these almond cookies. By the 16th century, French chefs brought the recipe to France, making it popular across Europe. Today, National Macaroon Day encourages bakers to try new flavors like dark spiced coconut or cashew-based macaroons.

Significance in Culinary Culture

Macaroons have deep cultural roots. They are a big part of Jewish traditions during Passover because they don’t have flour. During WWII, coconut macaroons were a staple when other ingredients were hard to find. Esther Levy’s 1871 cookbook included a macaroon recipe, marking its place in American history.

Even now, the French town of Montmorillon celebrates with a huge macaroon pyramid festival. These treats are a symbol of creativity and resilience in kitchens around the world.

The Difference Between Macarons and Macaroons

Many people get confused between macarons and macaroons. Macaroons are chewy treats made with coconut, while macarons are delicate cookies made with almond flour. Saying macaroon (mack-a-ROON) and macaron (mack-a-ROHN) sounds similar, but they taste very different.

Ingredients and Preparation

Almond macaroon cookies are made with shredded coconut, egg whites, and sugar. These simple ingredients create a dense, golden cookie. Macarons, on the other hand, need careful mixing of almond flour and meringue. This makes their crisp shell and soft center.

Parisian bakery Ladurée makes 15,000 macarons every day. This shows how complex and expertly made macarons are.

Flavor and Texture Comparisons

Macaroons are known for their rustic charm. They are often dipped in chocolate, a favorite during Passover. Macarons, on the other hand, have a light, airy texture. They are filled with buttercream or ganache.

“A macaroon is comfort food; a macaron is edible art,”

Pastry chef Sarah Lee says. Macarons have a nutty taste from the almond flour. This is different from the tropical sweetness of coconut in macaroons.

Popular Variations of Macaroons

Macaroons are a canvas for creativity, from home kitchens to bakeries. They cater to all tastes, mixing old traditions with new ideas. Let’s explore three favorite types that show the cookie’s universal charm.

Coconut Macaroons

In the U.S., coconut macaroons are a staple. They mix shredded coconut, sugar, and egg whites for a chewy treat. Recipes vary, with Dominican versions adding cinnamon and American ones topping with chocolate chips. Even vegan versions are available, showing the cookie’s adaptability.

Chocolate-Dipped Macaroons

Adding chocolate takes macaroons to the next level. They can be dipped in dark, milk, or white chocolate for extra flavor. Some recipes include chocolate chips in the dough, while others drizzle chocolate on cooled cookies. This method keeps them fresh and adds a gooey center.

Almond Macaroons

Almond macaroons are a European favorite, made with ground almonds and sugar. They inspired the French macaron but are loved for their crisp texture. Maison Ladurée’s almond macaroons are a Parisian classic, available in NYC for those seeking authentic flavors.

How to Celebrate National Macaroon Day

On May 31st, National Macaroon Day is here. It’s a time to get creative with macaroon celebration ideas. You can make your own treats or host a fun gathering. Start with easy macaroon dessert recipes like coconut ones, great for beginners.

Bake Your Own Macaroons

Start with a simple macaroon dessert recipe. You’ll need coconut, egg whites, and sugar. These treats are easy to make and perfect for Passover.

Try Godiva’s coconut macaroon recipe for a delicious center. Remember, chilling the batter makes them extra crispy.

Enjoy at Local Bakeries

Check out local patisseries like Pierre Hermé. They offer unique macaroons like dark chocolate-dipped ones. Many bakeries have special deals on National Macaroon Day, so look for events.

Host a Macaroon Tasting Party

Host a themed tasting night with friends. Mix homemade and store-bought macaroons with tea or coffee. Have everyone vote for their favorite flavors.

Share fun facts about macaroons’ Italian roots. Make it a competition with prizes for the best pairing idea!

Fun Facts About Macaroons

Explore the macaroon history and you’ll find tales from centuries ago. In the French Revolution, two nuns in Nancy made these treats to fund their home. They became known as the “Macaroon Sisters.” Their work is celebrated on National Macaroon Day, a day for history and creativity.

Recipes for macaroons go back to 792 AD in the Middle East. They were made with honey and nut flour. By the 16th century, Catherine De Medicis brought them to France, starting a new chapter in food history. Today, Ladurée and Pierre Hermé continue this tradition with fancy macarons, like a $7,414 one with balsamic and rare peanut butter.

Macaroons are light, with 70–100 calories per bite. They have egg whites for protein and coconut for healthy fats. Bakers now make them gluten-free, showing they can be both classic and modern.

There are many cultural twists on macaroons. Italian Jewish communities eat them during Passover, and Caribbean versions have rum. In France, the Musée du Macaron in Montmorillon shows their history. Enjoying macaroons at home or at festivals makes every day special, like National Macaroon Day.

Celebrity Chef Features on Macaroons

Chefs like Pierre Hermé and François Payard have made macaroons into art. On shows like MasterChef, contestants show off their skills by making these desserts under pressure. Ladurée’s Parisian macarons mix tradition with new ideas, using top-notch almond flour and special folding techniques.

For a taste of the tropics, try François Payard’s coconut macaroon recipe from New York. It combines toasted coconut and dark chocolate for a fresh twist.

Culinary Masters’ Secrets

Professional bakers say the secret is balance in texture. Payard says, “Patience is key,” letting egg whites stiffen for stability. His coconut macaroon recipe includes a 10-minute rest after piping, making the edges crisp.

Hermé’s 2005 National Macaron Day showed the value of sifting confectioners’ sugar for smoothness.

Behind the Mixing Bowl

“A great macaroon isn’t just sweet—it’s a harmony of crunch and cream,” shared a top pastry chef on Food Network.

Chefs advise using room-temperature egg whites and avoiding overmixing. Payard’s coconut macaroon recipe adds shredded coconut to almond flour, baked at 300°F for 15 minutes. These tips help home bakers become pros, showing even classic recipes can be improved with expert touches.

Top Cities for Macaroon Lovers

Some cities are perfect for macaroon fans. New York City, where National Macaroon Day started in 2010, has Yonkers’ Le Macaron. It’s known as a “Top 100 Game Changer” with 21 flavors, from vanilla to basil-lime.

In Victoria, Canada, Bon Macaron Patisserie mixes tradition with charity. They donate to good causes on National Macaroon Day. Los Angeles and London also celebrate, with Woops! providing quick delivery and new tastes.

Bakeries Known for Their Macaroons

Le Macaron’s Yonkers shop is famous for its over 70 locations across the U.S. They focus on seasonal flavors. Bon Macaron Patisserie uses local ingredients, and Woops! has 20+ U.S. stores for easy access.

These bakeries offer a wide range of flavors. You can find coconut, dark chocolate, or even lavender macaroons. They celebrate National Macaroon Day with delicious treats.

Annual Macaroon Festivals

“Montmorillon’s annual festival in France traces the treat’s history back centuries,”

New York hosts pop-up events with free samples and charity drives. The National Macaron Day website has updates on bakeries and deals.

These places make macaroon flavors into exciting adventures. Visit or order online to enjoy this sweet tradition.

Macaroon-Making Tips and Tricks

Turn your kitchen into a macaroon lab with these macaroon baking tips. Whether you’re making a classic coconut macaroon recipe or trying new flavors, these steps will help you succeed.

Pulse almond flour and powdered sugar four times for four seconds to avoid a pasty batter.

Essential Tools for Success

Having a kitchen scale and fine-mesh sifter is key. Use parchment or silicon mats to prevent sticking. Gel food coloring keeps meringue stable. A piping bag with a round tip helps shape the batter well.

Always preheat the oven to 300°F for the best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t overmix the meringue or underbake. Let the batter rest until it’s dry before baking. Check that the egg whites form stiff peaks. If edges brown too fast, prop the oven door open with a wooden spoon.

Never use oil-based colorants—they weaken the structure. Bake until the shells lift slightly but cling to the pan.

Mastering these steps turns any kitchen into a macaron paradise. Keep your tools organized and be patient. Perfect macaroons reward careful attention to detail.

Pairing Beverages with Macaroons

Make macaroon flavors even better with the right drinks on National Macaroon Day. The right drink can make the coconut or chocolate fillings shine. Try pairing them with coffee and tea to see how they enhance each flavor.

Coffee and Tea Recommendations

Earl Grey tea’s bergamot adds a citrusy touch to chocolate macaroons, balancing their richness. A bold espresso pairs well with coconut macaroons, highlighting their nutty sweetness. Chai tea is great with cinnamon-spiced macaroons, while green tea complements almond-based ones.

Experiment with different sweetness and acidity levels to find your perfect match.

Wine and Spirits

Sparkling wines like Prosecco or Champagne add a celebratory feel. Dessert wines, such as moscato or Sauternes, match the tropical flavors in coconut macaroons. For a unique twist, try a coconut-infused rum cocktail with dark chocolate macaroons.

Let the drink’s sweetness level enhance the macaroon, not overpower it.

Hosting an afternoon tea? Set up macaroons with these drinks to spark conversations. The goal is to enjoy the mix of flavors. No two pairings are the same. Cheers to enjoying every bite and sip on National Macaroon Day!

Sweet Treat Alternatives for National Macaroon Day

Want to try something new? Check out coconut desserts and gluten-free treats that go great with macaroons. These options add exciting flavors to your celebration.

“Coconut’s rich flavor shines in both classic and inventive recipes,” says Chef Éric Kayser, a macaroon innovator. “Experimenting to find your new favorite!”

Macaroon dessert recipes that mix coconut with dark chocolate or mango puree. For a showstopper, bake coconut cream pies or layer shredded coconut into cakes. Many home bakers follow Ladurée’s coconut macaroon recipe, which uses 800g shredded coconut, egg whites, and vanilla for a crispy exterior. Top with melted chocolate for a festive touch!

Whether you’re baking or buying, these alternatives ensure everyone finds a treat they love. Explore Payard Bakery’s online store or experiment with tropical twists to make National Macaroon Day unforgettable.

The Future of Macaroons in the Culinary World

Macaroons are more than just a classic treat. They inspire creativity in kitchens around the world. As trends change and we focus more on sustainability, these sweets are evolving. Yet, they stay true to their traditional roots.

Trends in Macaroon Recipes

Chefs are mixing things up with macaroon flavors. They’re creating savory versions with cheese, herbs, and even bacon. On the other hand, they’re also making sweet treats like peanut butter and birthday cake macaroons.

Places like Adour offer classes on macaroon baking tips. This helps home bakers try new things. Big names like Starbucks and Ladurée sell thousands of macaroons every day. Even fashion designers like Jason Wu feature them, showing their appeal.

Sustainability in Ingredient Sourcing

Now, choosing ingredients wisely is key. Coconut macaroons are a great example of eco-friendly baking. They use grated coconut flesh and avoid waste, fitting in with the zero-waste trend.

Chefs are now looking for ethically sourced coconut and fair-trade sugars. This shows they care about both tradition and the planet. Innovators like Pierre Hermé combine luxury with eco-friendliness. This ensures macaroons are tasty and good for the planet.