Slide over, cupcakes. There are new sweeties on the block that are as pretty as they are delicious. We’re talking about macarons (not to be confused with macaroons, which are dense, coconut goodies.)

Macarons are delicate disk-shaped, bite-size, meringue-like cookies–puffy and tasty clouds of sweetness.

The cookies are eye-catching, too, thanks to their feminine pastel colors and flavored buttercream fillings. Chocolate, raspberry, and pistachio are among the most familiar.

The talented baker who anonymously writes the blog, Coco & Me, and whose gorgeous macarons are shown in the photo above, runs a Saturday-only stall at the Broadway Market in East London. She reported that pink macarons and those that feature chocolate were the most popular, in her experience.

Macarons are très French and can be found at the finest patisseries in Paris. But they’re now huge in New York City’s boutique bakeries and have made a splash across the country, as well.

Party tip: Stack macarons for a colorful, delectable centerpiece, perfect for a baby or bridal shower. The cookies also make nice party favors. Wrap pairs in cellophane and tie with ribbon to match the color of one of the cookies.

See our recipes for delicious macarons, including four flavors of buttercream filling. Also see other beautiful dessert party ideas!

Photo source: Coco & Me.

Filed under: Baby showers, Bridal shower, Festive foods