Don’t Confuse Macarons With Macaroons

I don’t have much of a sweet tooth but there is one confection I enjoy and that is macarons. These are not to be confused with macaroons. The main ingredient in macaroons is shredded coconut. The main ingredient in macarons is almond flour.

I first experienced these delights at a small bakery in Washington DC. The shop was filled with a dizzying display of colors and flavors. It was impossible to choose just one. And then I was hooked.

My wife has attempted to make them for me out of the goodness of her heart. Baking them requires several steps and attention to detail. Her first attempt was an epic fail and we have no pictures to document this particular baking disaster.  However, her second attempt looked and tasted quite good. I’m still waiting on the third attempt!

I’ve also located a bakery in Rockland that offers macarons. Whenever my wife goes to Rockland, which isn’t often now that everyone is working from home, she will stop and pick up a small box for me. Atlantic Baking Company is located on Main Street in Rockland. They typically have several flavors available including raspberry, almond, chocolate, lavender honey and vanilla. The raspberry and apricot are even dairy free!

The bakery is set up to ensure people can social distance and a mask is required to enter. If you’re not into macarons, they have plenty of other options for you including cookies, cupcakes, eclairs and croissants. They also offer sandwiches to go. If you haven’t tried this delightful confection, I’m recommending you do!