Macarons rainbow

Rainbow macarons are a burst of color that combine French pastry technique with the vibrant aesthetic of editorial fashion.

About this subject

Macarons are small almond-based cookies made from almond flour, egg whites, and sugar, originating in France and perfected in the 20th century by Maison Ladurée. The rainbow version gained popularity as a symbol of diversity and joy, often used in high-fashion photo shoots and editorial layouts. Coloring is achieved with gel or powder food colorings applied to separate portions of batter to create vibrant layers. The technique requires precision: the cookies must have feet (the uneven edge at the base) and a smooth surface without cracks.

The trend of multicolored macarons reflects the movement of food as art, where visual presentation is as important as flavor. In editorial fashion, they are styled as accessories or props, evoking the palette of pastel and neon tones dominating runways. The rainbow association also references events like Pride, but in the culinary context, it celebrates technique and creativity.

Interestingly, the original macaron recipe dates to the 18th century, but the modern filled version (with ganache, buttercream, or jam) was popularized by Pierre Desfontaines of Ladurée in 1930. Rainbow macarons require each color to be prepared separately to maintain intensity, doubling production time. In Brazil, the macaron craze arrived in the 2010s with specialized bakeries in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, but the high price (up to BRL 8 per piece) maintains its gourmet status.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are macarons and how are they different from macaroons?

Macarons are delicate French cookies made from almond flour, powdered sugar, and egg whites, typically filled with cream. Macaroons (with two 'o's) are American coconut cookies, denser and unfilled.

Why are rainbow macarons so popular in fashion editorials?

The vibrant colors create striking visual contrast in photos, complementing the playful and luxurious aesthetic of high fashion. They symbolize joy and diversity, recurring themes in contemporary editorials.

How are rainbow macarons made without mixing the colors?

The base batter is divided into equal portions, each dyed a different color. The portions are then carefully placed side by side in a piping bag so that they come out in layers when squeezed, creating the striped effect.