When you think of macarons, delicate French almond cookies with smooth shells and creamy fillings. Also known as macaron cookies, it's a treat that blends texture, flavor, and artistry in every bite. In Brazil, these colorful sweets have moved beyond fancy cafés in São Paulo and Rio—they’re now a growing part of the local dessert scene. But not every shop gets it right. Real macarons need the perfect crisp shell, a chewy center, and fillings that don’t overwhelm. That’s why finding a true macaron shop, a bakery specializing in handcrafted macarons with consistent quality matters more than just spotting a pretty display.
Brazilian macaron shops often blend French technique with local flavors. You’ll find classics like chocolate and vanilla, but also bold twists like guava paste, a sweet, tangy Brazilian fruit spread used in fillings, cashew, a nut native to Brazil that adds rich, buttery depth, and even caipirinha, a traditional Brazilian cocktail turned into a fruity, boozy filling. These aren’t just gimmicks—they’re thoughtful adaptations that respect the macaron’s structure while celebrating Brazilian ingredients. What makes a good macaron shop? It’s not just the flavor. It’s the texture. The shell shouldn’t crack when you bite into it. The filling shouldn’t leak out. And the whole thing should taste balanced—not too sweet, not too dry.
Many people assume macarons are only found in big cities, but smaller bakeries in Belo Horizonte, Curitiba, and even coastal towns like Florianópolis are making waves with their versions. Some use almond flour imported from France. Others source local pistachios or passionfruit. The best ones bake in small batches, every day. You won’t find them in supermarkets. You’ll find them in quiet corners, often with a line out the door. If you’ve ever wondered why macarons cost so much, it’s because they’re finicky. One wrong temperature, one humid day, and the whole batch fails. That’s why a shop that gets it right, consistently, deserves attention.
Whether you’re in Brazil for a visit or you live there and want to support local bakers, knowing where to look for real macarons makes all the difference. Below, you’ll find posts that break down the most popular macaron flavors, why some shops succeed while others fail, and how to spot quality when you see it—no fancy labels, no hype, just what actually works.
Macarons are now a beloved treat in Brazil, with local bakers adapting the French classic using native flavors like dulce de leche, guava, and açaí. They’re sold everywhere - from luxury patisseries to street markets.