Macarons vs Macaroons: What's the Difference and Why It Matters

When people say macarons, delicate French cookies made with almond flour, egg whites, and sugar, with a creamy filling between two crisp shells. Also known as French macarons, they’re the elegant, colorful treats you see in patisseries and Instagram feeds. Then there’s macaroons, dense, chewy cookies made mostly from shredded coconut, egg whites, and sugar, often dipped in chocolate. Also known as coconut macaroons, they’re the rustic, no-fuss dessert found in bakeries and holiday cookie tins. These two names are easy to mix up—but they’re not just different in spelling. They’re different in texture, origin, technique, and even the kind of baker who makes them.

One is a French pastry with a history dating back to the 1500s, made by skilled hands who master the art of piping, resting, and baking to get that signature foot and smooth top. The other? A simple, ancient treat with roots in Jewish and Italian traditions, often made in minutes with just a few pantry staples. You won’t find coconut in a real macaron. And you won’t find almond flour in a traditional macaroon. One needs precision and patience. The other? It’s forgiving, messy, and still delicious. That’s why you’ll see posts here about macaron prices in 2025—people pay more because they’re harder to make right. And you’ll also see guides on how to make coconut macaroons that stay chewy, not dry. They’re not interchangeable. You can’t substitute one for the other in a recipe and expect the same result.

So why does this matter? Because if you’re baking for someone who loves delicate, fruity flavors, you want macarons. If you’re looking for something hearty, sweet, and easy to whip up for a potluck, macaroons are your go-to. Mixing them up isn’t just a mistake—it’s a missed opportunity. You might end up serving a coconut cookie to someone expecting a floral, buttery bite, or vice versa. The confusion is common, but the difference is real. And once you know it, you’ll never order the wrong one again.

Below, you’ll find real posts that break down everything from how much macarons cost today to why some people think they’re vegan (they’re not, unless you check the egg whites). You’ll also see how coconut macaroons stack up against other simple desserts, and what happens when you skip the vanilla or use the wrong sugar. This isn’t just a list of recipes—it’s a clear guide to understanding two treats that look like cousins but are really strangers in the kitchen.