In the bustling, diverse culinary landscape of Toronto, there’s a delicate, sweet treat that has captured the hearts of dessert aficionados – the macaron. Originating from France, this petite confection has found a home amidst Toronto’s iconic skyline, with patisseries and cafes crafting them to perfection. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, the quest for the city’s best macaron is one adventure you won’t want to miss. For those who adore the delicate taste of Toronto’s best macarons and crave more sweet treats, our guide to the top dessert takeout stores in Toronto is a treasure trove. It offers a selection of spots where you can grab and enjoy exquisite desserts on the go. Dive into this guide and discover the crème de la crème of macaron hotspots in Toronto, understand the art behind their creation, and even get a hint of events that celebrate this delightful dessert. Prepare to embark on a flavorful journey like no other!
Here are the 15 best places to get macarons in Toronto:
- Nadege Patisserie
- Butter Avenue
- SOMA Chocolatemaker
- Bobbette & Belle
- Bake Code
- Delysées Authentic French Bakery
- Patisserie 27
- Eative Film Cafe Restaurant
- Fahrenheit Coffee
- Cafe Plenty
- Touti Gelati and Cafe
- Le Dolci
Nadege Patisserie
Located in the heart of Toronto, Nadege Patisserie is the epitome of French elegance and artistry. Known for its sleek and modern ambiance, it’s a haven for dessert enthusiasts. The setting exudes a contemporary charm with bright interiors and chic decor, making it a prime spot for afternoon indulgences. Macaron enthusiasts frequent Nadege for its exceptional variety, with flavors ranging from the classic vanilla and chocolate to more exotic ones like passionfruit and yuzu. Beyond macarons, they are also renowned for their pastries, chocolates, and cakes. The highlight? Their seasonally rotating macaron flavors that ensure there’s always something fresh to tantalize your taste buds. Toronto’s culinary scene is rich with sweet treats, extending beyond macarons. Dive into our guide to the best bakeries in each Toronto neighborhood for an indulgent tour of artisanal breads, pastries, and other baked goods, perfect for complementing your macaron experience.
Address: 780 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 2R5, Canada
Butter Avenue
Butter Avenue is not just a patisserie; it’s a symphony of flavors and art. Its ambiance strikes a balance between cozy and refined, making it a perfect spot for both casual catch-ups and special occasions. The shop prides itself on its meticulously handcrafted macarons, which stand out for their perfect texture and intense flavors. Speciality flavors to look out for include their lavender honey, sakura cherry blossom, and sea salt caramel. But macarons are just the tip of the iceberg. Butter Avenue’s array of tarts, cakes, and other pastries ensure that there’s something for every dessert lover. A unique feature? Their seasonal and festive macaron boxes that become instant hits among the regulars.
Address: 140 Amber St Unit #10, Markham, ON L3R 3J8, Canada
SOMA Chocolatemaker
At first glance, SOMA Chocolatemaker might be misconstrued purely as a chocolate haven, but their macaron offerings are just as commendable. Nestled in an ambiance that’s rustic and warm, the aroma of rich cocoa fills the air, ensuring visitors know they’re in for a treat. While their chocolates are undoubtedly the star attraction, the macarons offer a delightful complement. Flavors often infuse chocolate in them, like their dark chocolate ganache or milk chocolate hazelnut. What sets SOMA apart is their dedication to the bean-to-bar process, giving a fresh, authentic taste to everything they offer. For those looking to enjoy macarons with a side of premium, artisanal chocolate, SOMA is the place to be. For those who have a penchant for macarons and a love for chocolate, Toronto’s culinary scene has much more to offer. Explore our guide to the best chocolate shops in Toronto, where every chocolate lover can find their bliss in exquisite, handcrafted treats.
Address: 443 King Street West, Toronto, Ontario
Bobbette & Belle
Bobbette & Belle is a fairy-tale come to life for dessert lovers. Nestled in Toronto, this patisserie is reminiscent of a Parisian bakery, exuding elegance and charm with its pastel-colored interiors and vintage decor. Known for their intricate and artful cake designs, they also offer a delightful selection of macarons. Flavors like pistachio, salted caramel, and raspberry rose have made them a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Aside from their macarons, their almond croissants and scones have also garnered rave reviews. A unique touch? Their signature hot chocolates, which pair exquisitely with their macaron selection, making for an indulgent treat.
Address: 1121 Queen St East, Toronto, Ontario M4M 1K9.
Bake Code
Bake Code is an exciting fusion of traditional and modern, bringing together European baking techniques with Asian-inspired flavors. The ambiance is contemporary, with clear glass displays showcasing their myriad of baked delights. While they serve a plethora of pastries, their macarons are a standout. Unique flavors like matcha, black sesame, and yuzu provide a twist to the classic macaron and are a testament to their innovative approach. Their speciality, however, extends to their croissants and buns, often incorporating flavors like taro and red bean. For those looking for a unique macaron experience with a hint of global influence, Bake Code is a must-visit.
Address: 4910 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M2N 5N5, Canada
Delysées Authentic French Bakery
As the name suggests, Delysées Authentic French Bakery is a slice of France right in the heart of Toronto. Boasting a minimalist yet chic setting, the bakery prides itself on using the finest ingredients to craft its desserts. Macarons are among their top offerings, with classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and coffee gracing their menu. However, they often introduce seasonal flavors, ensuring there’s always something new for their patrons. Beyond macarons, Delysées is also known for their éclairs, tarts, and mini-gâteaux. Their commitment to authenticity ensures every bite transports you straight to a Parisian street, making it an essential stop for those seeking genuine French flavors.
Address: 131 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z6, Canada
Patisserie 27
Tucked away in Toronto, Patisserie 27 is a gem that exudes a cozy European bakery vibe. With wooden interiors and an array of pastries on display, it’s a haven for those who appreciate artisanal baked goods. While they offer a range of pastries, their macarons, with their impeccable texture and flavor, have carved a niche for themselves. Popular flavors include passionfruit, earl grey, and lavender. Apart from macarons, their croissants, tarts, and cakes have received high praise from regulars. A unique feature? Their commitment to using organic ingredients, ensuring that each bite is both delicious and wholesome.
Address: 401 Jane St, Toronto, ON M6S 3Z6, Canada
Eative Film Cafe Restaurant
Eative Film Cafe Restaurant is an experience beyond just food; it’s where culinary arts meet visual arts. The setting is modern and trendy, often screening indie films, giving patrons a cinematic experience while they indulge. Although they are widely recognized for their gelato, their macarons are not to be overlooked. With flavors that often mirror their gelato offerings, such as dragon fruit and matcha, each macaron is a burst of authentic taste. What sets them apart is the amalgamation of a culinary journey with film screenings, making it a unique spot for those looking to combine their love for food and films.
Address: 230 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L6, Canada
Fahrenheit Coffee
Fahrenheit Coffee might primarily be a coffee lover’s paradise, but their dessert offerings, especially the macarons, are worth the detour. Located in multiple spots across Toronto, the ambiance is cozy and minimalist, ensuring the focus remains on their brews and bites. Their macarons offer a delightful complement to their coffee range. Flavors are often classic, like vanilla and chocolate, ensuring a harmonious pairing with their beverages. The true star at Fahrenheit, as the name suggests, is their meticulously crafted coffee. But, when paired with a macaron, it becomes a match made in heaven, embodying the perfect blend of robust and sweet.
Address: 120 Lombard St, Toronto, ON M5C 3H5, Canada
Cafe Plenty
Cafe Plenty brings together the essence of a modern urban cafe with the warmth of a local hangout spot. Situated in the heart of downtown Toronto, its ambiance is airy and contemporary, accentuated with clean lines and a touch of greenery. While they serve a diverse menu, their macarons have garnered quite a following. Popular flavors include salted caramel, matcha green tea, and raspberry. But what truly sets Cafe Plenty apart is their commitment to sourcing local ingredients, giving their offerings an authentic, fresh taste. Paired with their artisanal coffees, their macarons make for a delightful treat any time of the day.
Address: 250 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 2Z5, Canada
Le Dolci
Nestled in Toronto’s vibrant neighborhood, Le Dolci is more than just a bakery – it’s a culinary classroom. The ambiance is fun and creative, reflecting its dual nature as both a patisserie and a place for culinary enthusiasts to learn. Their macarons, with flavors ranging from passionfruit to Earl Grey tea, are often described as bite-sized wonders. Beyond the regular sales, Le Dolci is known for its baking classes, where macaron-making is a popular choice. For those looking not just to taste but also to learn the art of crafting this delicate dessert, Le Dolci provides the perfect setting.
Address: 12 Sousa Mendes St, Toronto, ON M6P 3P2, Canada
After enjoying the city’s finest macarons, why not indulge in some of the best vegan ice cream? Our guide covers the top spots in Toronto for a guilt-free, frozen treat.
Making Macarons at Home
The art of making macarons, often reserved for the elite pastry chefs in the heart of France, can now be mastered within the confines of your home kitchen. Delicate, colorful, and delightfully chewy, these petite confections can become a delightful homemade treat.
Benefits of Homemade Macarons:
- Store-bought macarons can be pricey. Crafting them at home offers a cost-effective way to enjoy these delicacies more frequently.
- From unique flavor combinations to specific colors, making macarons at home allows for unparalleled personalization.
- You’re in charge of the ingredients, ensuring no preservatives or unwanted additives.
Basic Recipe and Tips for First-Timers:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¾ cup almond flour
- 2 large egg whites, room temperature
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- Food coloring (optional)
Procedure:
- Sift powdered sugar and almond flour together to remove any lumps.
- Beat the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the dry mixture and food coloring (if using).
- Pipe small circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Allow to rest for 30 minutes until they form a skin.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 10 minutes.
Tips:
- Ensure your mixing bowl and whisk are grease-free to properly whip the egg whites.
- Aging the egg whites a day in advance can enhance the texture.
- Tap the baking sheet on the counter to remove any air bubbles before baking.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them:
Cracked Shells: This can be due to high oven temperature or not letting the piped macarons rest long enough before baking. Ensure you follow the resting and temperature guidelines.
Hollow Macarons: Often due to over-mixing the batter. The batter should flow like lava and form a ribbon when lifted.
No Feet: Can be caused by under-whipped egg whites or overly wet batter. Ensure stiff peaks form when whipping the egg whites and be careful with liquid flavor or color additions.
Homemade Benefits: Crafting macarons at home is cost-effective, allows for personalization, and offers control over ingredient quality.
Key Takeaways
- A simple macaron recipe involves ingredients like powdered sugar, almond flour, egg whites, and granulated sugar, with an optional addition of food coloring.
- Ensure powdered sugar and almond flour are sifted together to achieve a smooth batter.
- Egg whites should be whipped to stiff peaks and combined gradually with sugar for the ideal texture.
- Some frequent issues include cracked shells, hollow macarons, and lack of the signature “feet.” Each challenge has identifiable causes, such as oven temperature or batter consistency.
- Addressing challenges involves steps like adjusting oven temperatures, allowing resting time for piped macarons, and being cautious with batter consistency.
- While macaron-making can be intricate, patience and regular practice lead to delightful and rewarding results.
FAQs
- What are the benefits of making macarons at home?
Homemade macarons are cost-effective, customizable, and free from unwanted additives.
- Do I need any special ingredients for macarons?
Basic ingredients include powdered sugar, almond flour, egg whites, and granulated sugar.
- Can I add colors to my macarons?
Yes, food coloring can be added for customization.
- Why should I sift the powdered sugar and almond flour?
Sifting ensures a smooth batter by removing lumps.
- Why are my macarons cracked?
High oven temperature or insufficient resting time before baking can cause cracks.
- My macarons are hollow inside. What went wrong?
Hollow interiors can result from over-mixing the batter.
- Why don’t my macarons have “feet”?
Causes include under-whipped egg whites or wet batter.
- How can I prevent common macaron issues?
Adjust oven temperatures, allow piped macarons to rest, and maintain batter consistency.
- How should the macaron batter flow?
The batter should flow like lava, forming a ribbon when lifted.
- What’s the significance of “resting” the macarons before baking?
Resting helps form a skin on the macarons, which contributes to their texture and appearance.
- Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
Traditional macarons require almond flour, which gives them their distinct texture and flavor.
- How long do homemade macarons stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week in the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze macarons for later use?
Yes, macarons freeze well and can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.
Toronto’s dessert scene caters to all tastes, including those looking for vegan options. If you love macarons and are curious about other vegan desserts, our guide to the premier bakeries in Toronto specializing in vegan treats will satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.