National Macaroon Day

Celebrated: May 31

Sweet, Soft & Coconut-Covered

Get ready to celebrate a chewy, coconutty classic—National Macaroon Day is here! Every May 31, we pay tribute to one of America’s most unique and beloved bite-sized treats. With its golden crust, soft center, and irresistible texture, the macaroon is more than a cookie—it’s a nostalgic nod to home kitchens, heritage recipes, and the magic of simple ingredients.

Let’s clear something up first: macaron and macaroon may sound alike, but these are two very different desserts. The French-style macaron (you know, the pastel-colored sandwich cookie found in fancy patisseries) uses almond flour and originated in Italy. The macaroon, however, is a proudly American creation—made with sweetened shredded coconut and egg whites, it’s chewy, rich, and perfect with a cup of coffee.

We have Mrs. Esther Levy to thank for helping cement the macaroon’s place in American culinary history. In 1871, her “First Jewish American Cookbook” featured one of the earliest published macaroon recipes. Though placed in the “cakes” chapter, these treats quickly made their way to the cookie jar—and into generations of homes across the country.

Simple, sweet, and gluten-free by nature, macaroons have stood the test of time. Whether dipped in chocolate, baked golden-brown, or enjoyed plain, they’re a bite-sized celebration all on their own.

Crumb-Sized Macaroon Facts

Name Game: While “macaroon” and “macaron” share a root in the Italian word maccarone, they’ve evolved into completely different treats.

Coconut Craze: American macaroons became popular when Florida began harvesting coconut in the late 1800s—an early win for local produce!

Naturally Gluten-Free: Thanks to their almond- or coconut-flour base, macaroons are typically safe for gluten-sensitive snackers.

Choco-Lovers Unite: One of the most popular variations? Dipping the base or top of a macaroon in rich, dark chocolate.

Passover Favorite: Macaroons are a staple in Jewish households, especially during Passover when leavened baked goods are avoided.

A Bite of (Coconut) History

The macaroon's story starts in Italy, where almond-based sweets were a staple of monastic kitchens. Over time, the recipe traveled to France, where it split in two directions: the airy, elegant macaron, and the dense, chewy macaroon.

It was in America, however, where the macaroon as we know it truly took root. As coconut palms were planted in Florida, local cooks embraced this tropical twist on tradition. The result? A unique, flavorful cookie that was easier to make, more affordable, and beloved across generations.

Thanks to Esther Levy’s cookbook and the influence of Jewish-American cuisine, macaroons became a staple during holidays and special occasions—especially in homes looking for flourless, dairy-free desserts.

Today, whether made from scratch or picked up from your favorite bakery, macaroons continue to bring joy with every chewy bite.

How to Celebrate National Macaroon Day

For Everyone:

Bake a Batch: Try a classic coconut macaroon recipe—or add your own spin with chocolate, nuts, or citrus zest.
Cookie Swap: Host a mini dessert exchange with friends and neighbors featuring homemade or store-bought macaroons.
Macaroon vs. Macaron: Host a blind taste test and compare the two treats—who wins in your household?
Support Local: Pick up a pack of handmade macaroons from a local bakery or specialty grocer.

For Restaurant Owners:

Feature the Favorite: Add a limited-time macaroon dessert or coffee pairing to your menu—it’s a low-cost, high-impact crowd-pleaser.

Baked-In Food Safety with Certivance

At Certivance, we know that food safety is just as important as flavor—especially when sweet treats are on the line. Whether you're baking at home or operating a professional kitchen, our training and certification programs help ensure your food practices rise to the occasion.

👉 Visit Certivance.com to learn how we can support your food safety journey—cookie sheets and all.