Macaroon or Macaron?

Confusion sometimes abounds between these two cookies. Macarons (pronounced mah-kah-ROHN) and Macaroons (pronounced mah-kah-ROON) are not the same at all though they share some of the same ingredients. Let's start with the Macaron.

Dainty and elegant the Macaron is the beloved cookie of France. Very trendy in Paris. A sandwich cookie made with a light meringue and filled with delightful fillings. One must almost be a french pastry chef to pull off a perfect Macaron.

Now let's move on to the Macaroon. I will admit, these cookies evoke some fond memories for me. My mom would make these cookies typically around Easter. They were easy to make and delicious to eat. In France, the coconut macaroon is known as the "congolais". Another name for the coconut macaroon is "le rocher à la noix de coco". The almond flour version is simply called "le macaron" in French.

Macaroons are made with egg whites, sweetened condensed milk, sugar and, coconut! Easy to prepare and dropped on a baking sheet. Not one french pastry chef class required!

There are recipes galore found all over the internet for both the Macaron and the Macaroon. Below are a few links for both. If trying Macaron recipe, make sure you have enough time to make these delicate cookies and do not be disappointed if they are not perfect the first time. Keep trying! If time is of the essence, whip up a batch of Macaroons for the family.

Macaron Recipe-http://www.marthastewart.com/318387/french-macaroons
Macaroon Recipe- http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/coconut-macaroons-recipe3.html