What's the Difference Between a Macaron and a Macaroon?

Yes! The two words look very similar. Yes. Both things are ridiculously delicious and will make you want to lick your own face clean after you eat 'em. But there is a huge difference between a macaron and a macaroon.

My friend Jennifer, who works for a local bakery here in western Kentucky, is routinely driven mad by fact that a lot of folks just don't know the difference. And, look! I'll own it. I've mixed them up before too. Honestly, I have probably done it in front of Jennifer and it's entirely possible that I am part of the reason she's missing a handful of hair she pulled out when someone ordered a 'macaron' and called it a 'macaroon'.

So, let's set this record straight once and for all. What is the difference between a macaron and macaroon? As it turns out, there are several.

First- while the words are appear similar, there is a notable difference in the ways in which the words are spelled and pronounced. Here's my rather colorful (and appetizing) pronunciation guide for you.

CANVA

Besides the difference in the pronunciations above, you can also see distinct differences in the treats themselves. Sure, they are both cookies, but they are vastly different kinds of cookies.

I decided to let Jennifer- the belabored expert- explain. She says, "A macaron is a meringue cookie with a buttercream filling."

The bakery Jennifer works in sells macarons and they are tasty! They do not, however, sell macaroons.

A macaroon is a cookie made with egg whites and sugar and topped with ground almonds or coconut.

So, there you have it- the difference between a macaron and a macaroon. Now, you're ready to order 'em, bake 'em and eat 'em.