Macaroons are a delightful dessert enjoyed worldwide, but did you know there are two distinct types? Despite their similar names, coconut macaroons and French macarons are vastly different in ingredients, appearance, and taste. While both are meringue-based, the techniques used to make them and their final flavors couldn’t be more contrasting.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll dive deep into the two types of macaroons, explore their history, compare their characteristics, and even provide you with delicious recipes for both. By the end, you’ll be able to distinguish between these two treats and perhaps even try baking them yourself!
A Brief History of Macaroons
Before we explore the two types of macaroons, it’s important to understand where they come from. Both the coconut macaroon and the French macaron share roots in Italy, originating from the word “maccherone,” meaning a meringue-like pastry made from ground almonds. Over the centuries, these treats evolved into their current forms, with the French adapting the almond-based meringue into the elegant macaron, while the coconut macaroon became popularized in other regions.
Now, let’s look at these two types of macaroons in detail.
1. Coconut Macaroons: The Chewy Delight
Coconut macaroons are a sweet and chewy dessert made from shredded coconut, egg whites, and sugar. They are characterized by their rough texture, crunchy exterior, and chewy inside. This type of macaroon is especially popular in the U.S. and among Jewish communities as it contains no leavening agents, making it perfect for Passover.
Ingredients in Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are simple to make, using only a handful of ingredients:
- Shredded coconut
- Egg whites
- Sugar
- Vanilla or almond extract (optional)
- Chocolate (optional, for dipping)
Unlike their French counterpart, coconut macaroons don’t require any special equipment like piping bags or precise measurements. The mixture is spooned onto a baking sheet, giving them their rustic, homemade appearance.
Texture and Flavor
Coconut macaroons have a coarse, textured exterior that turns golden brown in the oven. The inside is moist and chewy, with a strong coconut flavor. They are often dipped in chocolate or drizzled with it to add an extra layer of sweetness.
Why People Love Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are a favorite for many reasons. First, they are easy to make and don’t require advanced baking skills. Second, their rich coconut flavor appeals to fans of tropical and sweet desserts. Finally, they are incredibly versatile. You can add different flavors like vanilla or almond, dip them in chocolate, or even mix in dried fruits.
Recipe: Classic Coconut Macaroons
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 2 large egg whites
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Melted chocolate for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded coconut, sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Whisk the egg whites until they are frothy and slightly stiff.
- Fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture until well combined.
- Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown.
- Let them cool completely before dipping the bottoms in melted chocolate (if desired).
Enjoy your chewy coconut macaroons with or without chocolate!
2. French Macarons: The Elegant Confection
French macarons are sophisticated sandwich cookies made from almond flour, egg whites, and powdered sugar. They have a smooth, glossy surface with a delicate “foot” or ruffled edge. Inside, they are soft and chewy, often filled with buttercream, ganache, or jam. French macarons come in a variety of colors and flavors, making them not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Ingredients in French Macarons
French macarons require more precision and care in their preparation. Key ingredients include:
- Almond flour
- Egg whites
- Powdered sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Food coloring (optional)
- Filling (buttercream, ganache, jam, etc.)
Texture and Flavor
French macarons are smooth and crispy on the outside, with a soft, chewy interior. They can be flavored with anything from vanilla and chocolate to pistachio and raspberry. The filling adds an extra layer of flavor, making each bite a burst of sweetness.
Why People Love French Macarons
The appeal of French macarons lies in their delicate balance of textures and flavors. The crisp outer shell, the soft inner layer, and the rich filling make each bite a refined treat. Their small size and variety of flavors also make them perfect for gifting or enjoying as a small indulgence with tea or coffee.
Recipe: Classic French Macarons
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups (175g) almond flour
- 2 cups (200g) powdered sugar
- 3 large egg whites
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- Gel food coloring (optional)
- Filling of your choice (buttercream, ganache, or jam)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together into a bowl.
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy, then gradually add granulated sugar. Continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the almond flour mixture into the egg whites until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
- Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto the baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Let the macarons rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until they form a slight crust.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, then allow the macarons to cool completely before removing from the parchment paper.
- Once cool, sandwich them with your choice of filling.
Enjoy your elegant, colorful French macarons!
Comparing the Two Types of Macaroons
Let’s break down the key differences between the two types of macaroons:
Ingredients
- Coconut Macaroons: Made primarily with shredded coconut and egg whites.
- French Macarons: Made with almond flour, egg whites, and powdered sugar.
Texture
- Coconut Macaroons: Rough and chewy with a crunchy exterior.
- French Macarons: Smooth and crisp on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside.
Appearance
- Coconut Macaroons: Lumpy and irregular, often toasted.
- French Macarons: Smooth, round, and colorful with a ruffled “foot.”
Flavor
- Coconut Macaroons: Sweet and coconut-heavy.
- French Macarons: Delicate and varied in flavor, depending on the filling.
Preparation
- Coconut Macaroons: Easy to make, requires no special equipment.
- French Macarons: Requires precision and care, plus equipment like a piping bag.
The Versatility of Macaroons
Both coconut macaroons and French macarons can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. Let’s explore some fun variations and serving ideas.
Coconut Macaroon Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Macaroons: Dip the tops or bottoms of the baked macaroons in melted chocolate.
- Almond Macaroons: Add finely chopped almonds to the coconut mixture for extra crunch.
- Coconut Macaroons with Dried Fruit: Fold in chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a fruity twist.
French Macaron Variations
- Chocolate Macarons: Use cocoa powder in the almond flour mixture for a chocolate base.
- Lemon Macarons: Add lemon zest and fill with lemon curd for a tangy treat.
- Raspberry Macarons: Fill with fresh raspberry jam for a fruity contrast to the sweet shell.
Why People Confuse Macarons and Macaroons
The confusion between macarons and macaroons often arises from their names. Both derive from the same Italian origin, and their names sound almost identical in English. However, in French, “macaron” is pronounced with a silent “n” at the end, making it distinct from the English “macaroon.”
The introduction of French macarons to the U.S. market in recent decades has only added to the confusion. Many people still associate the word “macaroon” with the coconut variety, leading to mix-ups when referring to the French pastry.
How to Serve and Enjoy Macaroons
Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are perfect for casual gatherings, as they’re easy to make and enjoy. Serve them as part of a dessert platter or alongside coffee or tea.
French Macarons
French macarons are ideal for elegant occasions, like weddings, tea parties, or special gifts. They can be arranged in colorful towers or boxed as sophisticated treats.
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Macaroons
Though they share a similar name, coconut macaroons and French macarons are two distinct desserts with unique textures, flavors, and preparations. Whether you prefer the chewy simplicity of a coconut macaroon or the delicate elegance of a French macaron, both treats offer something special.
Next time someone asks you, “What are the two types of macaroons?” you’ll not only know the answer, but you’ll also be able to appreciate each for its individual qualities.