National Day March 20 Food & Drink

National Macaron Day

Why it matters

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A SWEET CELEBRATION

Join us in celebrating the art of macarons with a delightful journey of flavors.

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━━━━ FAST FACTS ━━━━
WHEN
March 20
ORIGIN
France
STAT
Approximately 10 million macarons are consumed annually in the U.S.
STAT
Macarons can come in over 50 unique flavors.
VIBE
Festive and colorful
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THE STORY

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Macarons, the iconic French pastry, are made from ground almonds, sugar, and egg whites, resulting in a light and airy texture. They are typically filled with ganache, buttercream, or jam, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. National Macaron Day, celebrated on March 20, invites enthusiasts and novices alike to explore the world of these colorful confections.

The origins of macarons date back to the 16th century, but they gained widespread popularity in France in the 20th century. Pierre Hermé, known as the “Picasso of Pastry,” is credited with revolutionizing the macaron by introducing innovative flavor combinations that inspired a global obsession. Today, macarons are celebrated as a symbol of culinary artistry.

On National Macaron Day, bakeries across the United States often hold special events, offering discounts and themed flavors. This celebration is not only about indulgence—it also highlights the craftsmanship involved in creating these delicate treats. As you savor a macaron, consider the skill and precision required to perfect each bite.

Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee, as part of a dessert platter, or in an extravagant dessert creation, macarons bring joy to any occasion. As you celebrate National Macaron Day, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and cultural significance of this beloved pastry, which continues to inspire bakers and dessert lovers around the world.

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WORTH KNOWING

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#1
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Baking at Home

Try your hand at making macarons. While they can be tricky, the satisfaction of creating these delicate pastries at home is worth the effort.

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Flavor Exploration

Explore the myriad of macaron flavors available, from classic vanilla and chocolate to exotic rose or matcha. Each flavor offers a unique experience.

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Perfect Pairings

Macarons pair beautifully with different beverages. Experiment with pairing them with coffee, tea, or even dessert wines for a delightful treat.

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Capture the Moment

Share your macaron experience on social media. Whether you’re baking or tasting, capturing these colorful treats will inspire others to join the celebration.

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AROUND THE WORLD

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United States

Macarons have become a popular pastry choice in bakeries across the U.S., with many local variations.

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France

As the birthplace of the macaron, France continues to set the standard for these delicate pastries, particularly in Paris.

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Canada

Canadian bakeries have embraced macarons, offering unique flavors that reflect local tastes and ingredients.

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United Kingdom

In the UK, macarons are often served at afternoon tea, adding a touch of elegance to the traditional experience.

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Australia

Australian bakeries feature a variety of macaron flavors, influenced by both local and international culinary trends.

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Italy

In Italy, macarons are celebrated alongside other pastries, showcasing the country’s rich dessert culture.

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DID YOU KNOW?!

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TRIVIA

A Global Phenomenon
Macarons have gained international popularity, inspiring variations and adaptations across cultures.

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Colorful Creations
Macarons can be made in virtually any color, making them visually appealing and perfect for celebrations.

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High Demand
The macaron market has grown significantly, with the U.S. seeing a surge in bakeries specializing in these pastries.

TRIVIA

Culinary Art
Making macarons is considered a culinary art, requiring precision and skill to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

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Unique Packaging
Many bakeries offer macarons in beautifully designed boxes, making them a popular gift item for special occasions.

TRIVIA

Macaron Day Origins
National Macaron Day was first celebrated in 2013, initiated by the French pastry community to promote these treats.

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Celebrity Chefs
Famous chefs like Ladurée and Pierre Hermé have played a significant role in popularizing macarons worldwide.

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READ MORE

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THE ESSENTIAL

Macaron: The Ultimate Guide

Marie-Aude Rose · 2017

This comprehensive guide covers everything from the history of macarons to step-by-step recipes, making it a must-have for aspiring bakers.

COOKBOOK

Les Petits Macarons

Kathryn Gordon · 2011

A delightful collection of macaron recipes, this book offers both classic and innovative flavors to inspire your baking adventures.

ARTISAN TECHNIQUES

The Art of French Pastry

Jacques Torres · 2016

Dive into the world of French pastry with this book, which includes expert tips and techniques for mastering macarons.

CHILDREN'S COOKBOOK

Macaron Magic

Alison K. Smith · 2019

A fun and engaging cookbook designed for children, featuring easy-to-follow macaron recipes that encourage creativity in the kitchen.

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PAIR IT WITH

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COFFEE

A strong cup of coffee complements the sweetness of macarons beautifully.

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TEA

Pairing macarons with tea enhances the flavor experience, especially with herbal varieties.

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CHAMPAGNE

Macarons and champagne make for an elegant pairing, perfect for celebrations.

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MILK

A classic pairing, milk balances the sweetness of the macarons, making them even more enjoyable.

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Celebrate with Macarons

Join the celebration of National Macaron Day by trying or making these delightful pastries. Share your experiences with friends!

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