Macarons are a type of sandwich cookie made with almond flour, egg whites, confectioners sugar, and food coloring. They are a meringue-based confection that is sweet and delicate, with a crisp exterior and a chewy texture. Macarons are typically filled with jam, buttercream, or ganache.

The process of making macarons involves folding sifted, ground almonds and powdered sugar into stiff-peaked meringue to create a batter that is then piped into smooth macaron shells. The shells are made without any chemical leaveners and get all of their lift from properly beaten egg whites.

Macaroons, on the other hand, are drop cookies made using whipped egg whites, sugar, vanilla, and shredded coconut. They are not sandwich cookies and are not made with almond flour.

In summary, macarons are made with almond flour, egg whites, confectioners sugar, and food coloring, while macaroons are made with shredded coconut, whipped egg whites, sugar, and vanilla.