Foodie Friday: I <3 Macarons!!!

Today in keeping with my Easter theme and the lovely pastel colors that make my heart flutter this particular time of year, but also a sweet treat that I get to indulge in so rarely and brings the biggest smile to my face: the magical, glorious French macaron!!!

I was only introduced to this delectable dessert several years ago, and to this day it reminds me of one of my very best friends Katie, because of our special memories discovering and enjoying them. One of my favorite places to eat in Portland is Elephants Delicatessen, the most incredible specialty food store & catering company that made me fall head over heels in love with them! It is rare especially on my small island home to ever see a true Parisian macaron made properly, although they seem to be more popular in bakeries throughout the country in the past year or so. What is amazing about truly perfected french macarons is the delicacy with which the cookies are made…they actually melt in your mouth! The outermost shell of the cookies are slightly hard but the inside melts into a chewy, sugary goodness…not to mention a filling that can range from gelatinous jams, infused buttercreams or rich ganaches. French macaroons are made primarily with egg whites, sugar and almond powder…almond being my absolute favorite flavor probably has a big reason why I love them so much. They range in flavors from classic: chocolate, vanilla, lemon, raspberry, pistachio…to innovative: green tea, sesame, orange blossom, lavendar, earl grey, etc! With macarons the possibilities are endless! So here they are…hope the sight of them fills you with awe and joy the way they do for me…and if anyone comes across a pistachio french macaron on Maui, buy every single one in store and call me! haha.