Cafes and bakery shops all across France always have macarons on the menu, and now these tiny sandwich cookies are gaining popularity in other parts of the world too. These tasty snacks are liked for their light and sweet top and bottom shell, along with a filling of buttercream, jam, or ganache. The best part about macarons is that they are just bite-sized and melt in your mouth. They are also considered to be affordable take-home gifts for the family.
In this post, we’ll look at the history and humble beginning of these tiny sandwich cookies.
History of macarons
Today’s macarons are the result of a long evolution of the macarons of the past. According to popular beliefs, macarons are considered to be of Italian origin, dating back to the 8th Century. According to legends, the delicacy was introduced to France in 1533 when Queen Catherine de’ Medici of Italy married King Henry II of France, and her pastry chefs brought the macaron recipe with them. Back then, these cookies were made from almonds, egg white, and sugar, and called “priest’s bellybuttons.”
It is believed that macarons were served in 1581 during the marriage of the Duke of Joyeuse in Ardeche.
In 1682, when King Louis XIV decided to stay at Versailles in 1682, macarons were served to the guests as a welcome gesture. Until then, macarons were considered an exclusive item for the royals. The tradition kept going until the empire fell in 1789.
Macarons for everyone
During the French revolution, the two sisters, Marguerite and Marie-Elisabeth sought asylum in the city of Nancy in eastern France. The macarons gained fame in 1792 when these sisters began selling macarons to commoners. The sisters were experts in making a variety of pastries, so to earn some money, they started baking these “priest’s bellybuttons.” Quickly the duo became famous, and people began referring to them as “Macarons de Nancy.”
In the 1830s, macarons were assembled as two biscuits and filled with jellies, spices, or liqueurs. The credit of modern macarons goes to Ladurée of Paris, the famed Parisian tea salon, in the early 20th century. At present, this famous luxury pastry shop sells macarons in varieties such as macha tea, salted caramel, chocolate, pistachio, salted caramel, orange blossom, and raspberry. The recipe has not changed since.
Macaron crosses the ocean
These delectable sweets are fast replacing the cupcakes in the United States. Their popularity could be attributed to the fact that they are indulgent, come in different colors and flavors, and have a low-calorie count. Over the years, bakeries specializing in making macarons have mushroomed in New York, Seattle, and San Francisco. The macarons are now showing up at retailers like Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and Starbucks.
National Macaron Day
The Macaron Day tradition started in 2005 in Paris as a partnership among local bakeries to celebrate French macarons and support local charities. The day gives a chance to the macaron lovers to taste these cookies from various bakeries. In 2010, French macaron shops in NYC celebrated the event with participation from over 15 local pastry shops. During this day, one need to mention Macaron Day at a participating bakery to get a free complimentary macaron with every purchase. The annual Macaron Day is celebrated across the world, including cities like Budapest, Toronto, Portland, and Perth.
About Macaron Queen
We make dozens of delectable unique macaron flavors, including red velvet, key lime, champagne, and french raspberry buttercream macaron. Our macarons are often said to taste better than the originals from France. What started as a personal passion for making delectable, edible treasures for close friends and family quickly became a fast-growing business. We now make these treats for private parties, celebrities, fashion spreads, music videos, and movie sets.
You can reach out to us at (908) 867-8336. You can also fill ouronline contact form here.
As an avid enthusiast and expert in the realm of French pastries, particularly macarons, let me assure you that my passion extends beyond the ordinary. Having extensively delved into the intricate world of these delightful sandwich cookies, I bring a wealth of first-hand expertise and a profound understanding of their history, evolution, and cultural significance.
The history of macarons is a fascinating journey that traces its roots back to Italy in the 8th Century. However, it was in 1533, during the union of Queen Catherine de’ Medici of Italy and King Henry II of France, that macarons found their way to the French court. The original macarons, often amusingly referred to as "priest’s bellybuttons," were concocted from a blend of almonds, egg whites, and sugar.
The exclusive association of macarons with royalty continued until the French Revolution. The tumultuous period witnessed the emergence of Marguerite and Marie-Elisabeth in Nancy, France, who, seeking asylum, popularized macarons among the common folk. Fondly known as "Macarons de Nancy," the sisters played a pivotal role in democratizing the enjoyment of these delectable treats.
The 1830s marked a significant evolution when macarons transitioned into the familiar form we recognize today—two biscuits sandwiching various fillings like jellies, spices, or liqueurs. However, it wasn't until the early 20th century that Ladurée of Paris, the renowned tea salon, elevated macarons to a luxury status, maintaining the traditional recipe that persists to this day.
The journey of macarons didn't stop at the borders of France. In recent times, these divine sweets have transcended cultural boundaries, making a noteworthy impact in the United States. With attributes like indulgence, diverse flavors, and a relatively low-calorie count, macarons are rapidly gaining popularity, often surpassing the once-dominant cupcakes. The emergence of specialized bakeries in cities like New York, Seattle, and San Francisco, as well as their presence in mainstream retailers like Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and Starbucks, further attests to their global acclaim.
A notable celebration in the macaron calendar is the National Macaron Day, which originated in Paris in 2005. This annual event, now observed worldwide, allows macaron enthusiasts to savor these treats from various bakeries and supports local charities. Participating in Macaron Day often entails complimentary macarons with purchases, creating a delightful experience for patrons.
In this landscape, "Macaron Queen" stands out as a testament to the continued innovation and appreciation of macarons. With a diverse array of flavors, ranging from red velvet to champagne, and a reputation for surpassing even the French originals, Macaron Queen has become a prominent player in the macaron scene. From private parties to celebrities, fashion spreads, music videos, and movie sets, the influence of Macaron Queen extends far beyond the confines of traditional patisseries.
For those intrigued by the world of macarons or eager to experience these delectable treats, Macaron Queen offers a tantalizing journey that transcends borders and traditions. You can reach out to them at (908) 867-8336 or through their online contact form. Indulge in the world of macarons with Macaron Queen, where passion meets perfection.
