Modern Vintage

Macarons by Paulette's Macarons

Ok Ok - cupcakes are here to stay and will always and forever be cute....but for the adventurous who want something a little more chic, a little more sophisticated in look and taste, there is...drum roll please...the Macaron!

With it's flaky, crispy shell encasing a moist cakey center, the two French style cookies sandwich anything from ganaches to jams. For foodies, there are sophisticated parings like violet ganache and cassis jam (Paulette's Macarons) or Coconut Passion Fruit (Bouchon Bakery), and for purists, there are vanilla ganache, chocolate ganache and lemon ganache treats. Best of all, the endless flavor combinations mean these Macarons come in colors ranging from pretty pastels to saturated tropical brights to rich chocolately tones - so they're not only tasty but are also gorgeous!

Instead of a cupcake tier at your next event try a three tier tea-stand stacked with these tasty treats or give out a few as favors (they can be transported without the mess of cupcakes and are much more novel than jordan almonds or truffles).

A gift box of 12 at Paulette's Macarons in Beverly Hills is $18. A box of 6 at Thomas Keller's Bouchon Bakery $15. 

Paulette's Macaron Interior 

Custom Macaroons by Bouchon Bakery NY

Photo by David Willems