Macaroons are a type of cookie or confection that is made without flour or yeast. There are many variations of macaroons, that generally fall into one of three catagories: French macaroons, Italian macaroons and coconut macaroons. Italian macaroons usually contain almonds, and one well known Italian variation of the macaroon is called amaretti. They are flavored with either amaretto or chopped bitter almonds.http://www.thenibble.com/reviews/MAIN/cookies/cookies2/history-of-macaroons2.asp French macaroons generally have top and bottom layers of meringue with buttercream filling. These popular desserts are available in a almost endless variety of colors and flavors.http://www.thenibble.com/reviews/MAIN/cookies/cookies2/history-of-macaroons2.asp#french In the United States, macaroons are usually made with sweetened coconut.
Macaroon Background and History
It is not exactly clear who first invented Macaroons, but historians say they first appeared around 1533 from an Italian monastery.http://www.thenibble.com/reviews/MAIN/cookies/cookies2/history-of-macaroons.asp Amaretti, the Italian version of macaroons, was first created by Francesco Moriondo, the pastry chef for the Court of Savoy in the 17th century.http://www.thenibble.com/reviews/MAIN/cookies/cookies2/history-of-macaroons2.asp<ref>
Variety of Macaroons
This video demonstrates both sweet and savory macaroons. The video, produced by International news, attributes the macaroon to the French and states it dates back to the 18th century. The macaroons in the video come in different shapes, colors, and flavors. They profile a restaurant that has a menu including macaroons in each course, from appetizer to dessert.
References
Fast Facts
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Originated in Italy in the late 18th Century
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May be made without salt
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Chocolate may be added
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Dried fruits add sweet flavor with less sugar
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Common treat during Passover
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Alternate spellings
Mackaroon, Maccaroon, Mackaroom
