"Here's a little interesting fact about macarons: A macaroon is a small cookie that is usually made from ground almonds, though it can also include coconut or other nuts, and sometimes even potato. They are made with sugar and may have additional flavorings like honey, vanilla, spices, food coloring, glace cherries, jam, or even a chocolate coating. Culinary historians trace the origins of macaroons back to an Italian monastery in the 8th or 9th century. The monks eventually made their way to France in 1533, bringing along pastry chefs from Catherine de Medici’s kitchen. Recipes for macaroons (which may also be spelled 'mackaroon', 'maccaroon', or 'mackaroom') have been documented in cookbooks since at least 1725."
