Bettergoods Macarons

From First Bite to Loyal Fan: My Journey Through the World of Artisanal French Delights

I still remember my first Bettergoods macaron. That delicate shell giving way to a pillowy interior, the perfect balance of sweetness, and a flavor so pure it seemed to dance across my taste buds. What began as a casual purchase has evolved into a full-blown obsession that I’m excited to share with you today.

Like many dessert enthusiasts, I’ve sampled my fair share of macarons over the years—from corner bakeries to high-end patisseries. But there’s something truly special about Bettergoods that keeps me coming back. Maybe it’s their commitment to quality ingredients, or perhaps it’s the way each macaron feels like a small, perfect work of art. Either way, Bettergoods Macarons have revolutionized my expectations of what this classic French confection should be.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about these exceptional treats—from their origins and ingredients to where you can find them and which flavors might become your personal favorites. Whether you’re a macaron connoisseur or a curious newcomer, my goal is to equip you with all the information you need to make Bettergoods a delightful part of your culinary journey.

What Are Bettergoods Macarons, Anyway?

Before diving into the specifics, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes Bettergoods Macarons so special. Unlike mass-produced alternatives that often miss the mark, Bettergoods creates authentic French macarons that honor traditional techniques while incorporating modern flavor profiles.

For those unfamiliar with macarons (not to be confused with coconut macaroons), these delicate confections consist of two almond meringue shells sandwiching a ganache, buttercream, or jam filling. The perfect macaron has a thin, crisp exterior that yields to a slightly chewy interior—a textural contrast that’s notoriously difficult to achieve.

Bettergoods has mastered this balance, creating macarons with that coveted “foot” (the ruffled edge at the base of each shell) and a perfectly smooth, domed top. Their attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the vibrant natural colors to the consistent size and shape of each piece.

What truly sets Bettergoods apart, though, is their commitment to quality ingredients. While many commercial bakeries cut corners with artificial flavors and preservatives, Bettergoods uses real fruit purees, premium chocolates, and natural extracts to create authentic flavors that truly shine. The almond flour they use is finely ground and sifted multiple times, resulting in that signature smooth texture that macaron lovers crave.

The Hunt: Where to Find Bettergoods Macarons

One of the most common questions I receive when I’m raving about these treats is: “Where can I actually buy them?” Thankfully, Bettergoods has expanded their availability over the years, making these delightful confections accessible to more people than ever before.

Retail Locations

If you’re like me and enjoy the tactile experience of selecting your macarons in person, you’ll be pleased to know that Bettergoods has established several flagship boutiques in major cities. Walking into one of these shops is a sensory experience in itself—the rainbow display of macarons, the subtle sweet aroma, and the elegant packaging all contribute to the anticipation of that first bite.

Beyond their own boutiques, Bettergoods has partnerships with select high-end grocery stores and specialty food shops. You might find their distinctive packaging in the bakery section of stores like Whole Foods or in local gourmet markets. The benefit of purchasing in-store is that you can often select individual flavors rather than committing to pre-selected assortments.

Online Ordering

For those without convenient access to a physical retailer, Bettergoods offers a seamless online ordering experience. Their website features gorgeous photography that might have you adding more to your cart than you initially planned (speaking from personal experience here!).

What impresses me about their online ordering system is the attention to packaging. Bettergoods has invested in specialized temperature-controlled shipping methods that ensure your macarons arrive in perfect condition. Each macaron is nestled in protective packaging that prevents shifting during transit—a crucial consideration for these delicate treats.

Online orders typically ship within 1-2 business days, and the company offers expedited shipping options for those last-minute gift needs or sudden macaron cravings. I’ve ordered online several times during summer months (a risky time for shipping delicate pastries) and have always received perfect, unmelted macarons.

Seasonal Pop-Ups and Events

Keep an eye out for Bettergoods pop-up shops at food festivals, holiday markets, and special events. These temporary locations often feature exclusive flavors or limited-edition packaging that you won’t find elsewhere.

I stumbled upon a Bettergoods holiday pop-up last December and discovered their Champagne and Chocolate Orange seasonal macarons, which became instant favorites. The staff at these events are typically well-versed in the product and can offer excellent recommendations based on your flavor preferences.

A Rainbow of Flavors: Navigating the Bettergoods Selection

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of exploring Bettergoods Macarons is discovering their diverse flavor portfolio. From traditional favorites to innovative combinations, there’s truly something for every palate.

Classic Flavors

The foundation of Bettergoods’ offering is their classic collection—tried-and-true flavors that showcase the company’s mastery of traditional French patisserie:

• Vanilla Bean: Far from plain, this macaron features flecks of real vanilla bean in a rich buttercream filling.
• Chocolate: Made with premium cocoa and filled with silky chocolate ganache.
• Pistachio: Incorporating finely ground pistachios in both the shell and the filling for an intense, authentic flavor.
• Raspberry: Bright, tangy, and made with real raspberry puree.
• Lemon: Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart with a smooth lemon curd filling.
• Coffee: Infused with freshly ground espresso for a sophisticated flavor profile.
• Salted Caramel: A customer favorite featuring buttery caramel with just the right touch of flaky sea salt.

I find myself returning to the pistachio and salted caramel time after time—they’ve become my personal benchmarks for a good macaron. The depth of flavor Bettergoods achieves in these classics is remarkable, especially compared to competitors who often rely on artificial flavoring.

Signature Collection

Beyond the classics, Bettergoods offers a signature collection that showcases their creativity and willingness to explore unique flavor combinations:

• Lavender Honey: Delicate floral notes balanced with natural sweetness.
• Earl Grey: Infused with bergamot and paired with a white chocolate ganache.
• Rose Lychee: Fragrant rose water complemented by exotic lychee.
• Black Sesame: Nutty and complex with a subtle sweetness.
• Passion Fruit: Tropical and tangy with an intense fruit flavor.
• Matcha Green Tea: Earthy and slightly bitter, balanced with a sweet white chocolate filling.
• Fig and Balsamic: A sophisticated combination of sweet fruit and tangy vinegar reduction.

The signature collection is where Bettergoods really shines, in my opinion. These unique offerings demonstrate their willingness to push boundaries while maintaining the essential character of a great macaron. The Earl Grey has converted even my tea-averse friends into believers!

Seasonal and Limited-Edition Flavors

Part of the fun of being a Bettergoods enthusiast is anticipating their seasonal releases. Each season brings new limited-edition flavors that reflect seasonal ingredients and holiday themes:

Spring: Cherry Blossom, Strawberry Rhubarb, Lemon Thyme
Summer: Watermelon, Peach Bourbon, Blueberry Lavender
Fall: Pumpkin Spice, Maple Pecan, Apple Cider
Winter: Peppermint Chocolate, Gingerbread, Champagne

I’ve made it something of a personal tradition to try each seasonal release as it becomes available. The Peach Bourbon from last summer still ranks among my all-time favorites—the fruit was perfectly ripe and juicy, with just a hint of bourbon warmth in the finish.

Beyond seasonal offerings, Bettergoods occasionally collaborates with chefs, artists, or brands to create truly unique limited-edition collections. These special releases often sell out quickly, so I’ve learned to subscribe to their newsletter to stay informed about upcoming launches.

For Special Diets: Ingredient Considerations

As someone who has friends with various dietary restrictions, I appreciate Bettergoods’ transparency about their ingredients and production processes. Here’s what you need to know if you have specific dietary considerations:

Gluten-Free Status

Good news for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity: All Bettergoods Macarons are naturally gluten-free. Traditional French macarons use almond flour rather than wheat flour, making them an excellent option for those avoiding gluten.

What impresses me about Bettergoods’ approach is their commitment to preventing cross-contamination. While some bakeries produce macarons alongside gluten-containing products, Bettergoods has dedicated equipment for their macaron production, minimizing the risk of trace gluten exposure.

Natural Ingredients

One of Bettergoods’ core principles is using natural ingredients whenever possible. Their shells contain only almond flour, egg whites, sugar, and natural coloring derived from fruit and vegetable extracts. The fillings vary by flavor but prioritize real food ingredients over artificial alternatives.

For example, their raspberry macarons get their vibrant color and flavor from actual raspberry puree rather than artificial flavoring or food dye. This commitment to natural ingredients not only results in better flavor but also appeals to those looking to avoid artificial additives.

Vegetarian Options

All Bettergoods Macarons are suitable for vegetarians, as they don’t contain gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients (aside from dairy and eggs). This makes them a reliable choice for vegetarian friends at gatherings—something I’ve appreciated when hosting dinner parties.

Nut Considerations

Traditional macarons are made with almond flour, so most Bettergoods varieties do contain nuts. However, they have developed a small selection of nut-free options using alternative flours like sunflower seed flour. These varieties are produced in a separate facility to prevent cross-contamination, making them a safe choice for those with nut allergies.

The nut-free options are clearly labeled both in-store and online, and the staff is well-trained to assist customers with allergy concerns. I’ve found this especially helpful when purchasing gifts for friends with dietary restrictions.

Vegan Options

In response to growing demand, Bettergoods has developed a line of vegan macarons that replace egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) and use plant-based alternatives to dairy in their fillings. While slightly different in texture from their traditional counterparts, these vegan options maintain the essential character of a great macaron.

The vegan selection is more limited than their standard offering but includes popular flavors like chocolate, vanilla, raspberry, and pistachio. I’ve shared these with vegan friends who have been thrilled to enjoy macarons again after giving up animal products.

Investment in Indulgence: Understanding Pricing

Let’s address the elephant in the room: Bettergoods Macarons are not inexpensive. Quality ingredients, labor-intensive production methods, and beautiful packaging all contribute to a premium price point. However, after years of sampling macarons across various price ranges, I genuinely believe Bettergoods offers excellent value for the quality you receive.

Individual and Small Box Pricing

When purchasing in-store, individual macarons typically range from $2.75 to $3.50 each, depending on the flavor complexity and location. Standard flavors like vanilla or chocolate tend to be at the lower end of this range, while specialty flavors like the seasonal offerings might command a higher price.

Small gift boxes containing 6 macarons usually range from $18 to $22, offering a slight discount compared to purchasing individual pieces. These smaller boxes make excellent host gifts or personal treats when you want to sample a variety of flavors.

Medium and Large Collections

For special occasions or gatherings, Bettergoods offers larger collections:

• 12-piece boxes: $35-$42
• 24-piece boxes: $65-$80
• 36-piece boxes: $95-$115

These larger assortments often come in more elaborate packaging and sometimes include flavor cards that identify each macaron—a thoughtful touch that enhances the gifting experience.

Special Collections and Gift Sets

Seasonal and holiday collections typically include special packaging and sometimes exclusive flavors, commanding prices at the higher end of the range. Their Valentine’s Day heart-shaped box, for example, contains 12 macarons in romantic flavors for around $45.

Bettergoods also offers luxury gift sets that pair macarons with complementary items like fine tea, champagne, or artisanal chocolate. These curated sets range from $60 to $150 depending on the included items.

Bulk and Event Pricing

For weddings, corporate events, or large gatherings, Bettergoods offers bulk pricing that can provide significant savings. Their events team works with customers to create custom orders, including personalized colors, flavors, or packaging.

I recently ordered 100 macarons for a friend’s bridal shower, and the per-piece price was notably lower than retail. The events team was incredibly helpful in selecting a color scheme that matched the wedding palette and suggesting flavor combinations that would appeal to a diverse group of guests.

Preserving Perfection: Storage and Freshness

One of the questions I’m frequently asked about Bettergoods Macarons is how long they last and how best to store them. These delicate treats require a bit more care than your average cookie, but proper storage ensures you’ll enjoy them at their peak.

Optimal Freshness Window

Bettergoods Macarons are at their absolute best when consumed within 3-5 days of production. During this window, you’ll experience the ideal texture contrast between the slightly crisp shell and the soft interior. The flavors are also most vibrant during this period.

All Bettergoods packages are marked with a “best by” date, typically about a week from production. While they remain safe to eat beyond this date, the textural experience begins to change as moisture from the filling slowly migrates into the shells.

Proper Storage Techniques

For short-term storage (up to 5 days), keep your macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bettergoods’ packaging is designed to protect the macarons during this timeframe, but if you’ve opened the original packaging, transfer any remaining macarons to a sealed container.

An important tip I’ve learned: always bring refrigerated macarons to room temperature before eating. Cold temperatures mute the flavors and harden the texture. I typically remove macarons from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to allow them to reach their optimal state.

Freezing for Extended Storage

If you won’t be enjoying your macarons within their optimal freshness window, freezing is an excellent option. Properly frozen, Bettergoods Macarons maintain their quality for up to 3 months.

To freeze macarons:

1. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container.
2. If stacking is necessary, place parchment paper between layers.
3. Seal the container tightly to prevent freezer burn.
4. When ready to enjoy, transfer the container to the refrigerator for 24 hours.
5. Then allow the macarons to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

I’ve found this method preserves both the texture and flavor remarkably well. I sometimes purchase extra macarons specifically to freeze for those moments when I need a sophisticated dessert option for unexpected guests.

The Bettergoods Experience: Packaging and Presentation

Part of what makes Bettergoods Macarons so gift-worthy is their exceptional packaging. From the moment you see the distinctive box, there’s a sense of anticipation and luxury that enhances the overall experience.

Standard Packaging

Even the basic Bettergoods packaging is thoughtfully designed. Their signature pastel boxes feature a minimalist design with a gold-foil logo that conveys sophistication without being ostentatious. Each macaron sits in its own slightly indented space, preventing movement that could damage the delicate shells.

The boxes include a small information card detailing the flavors, ingredients, and optimal storage conditions—a practical touch that demonstrates their attention to the customer experience.

Gift Packaging Options

For an additional fee (typically $3-$8 depending on size), Bettergoods offers enhanced gift packaging that includes:

• Premium boxes with magnetic closures
• Satin ribbon in various color options
• Gift cards with personalized messages
• Seasonal decorative elements
• Optional gift bags or decorative tins

I’ve sent Bettergoods gift boxes to friends for birthdays and special occasions, and the presentation never fails to impress. The unboxing experience feels special and celebratory—exactly what you want from a gift.

Seasonal and Limited-Edition Packaging

During holidays and special occasions, Bettergoods releases themed packaging that makes their macarons even more gift-worthy. Their Christmas collection comes in elegant forest green boxes with gold detailing, while spring brings floral-patterned boxes that complement the seasonal flavors.

These limited-edition packages often become collectors’ items among devoted fans. I still have the beautiful lacquered box from last year’s Lunar New Year collection—it’s too pretty to discard and now serves as storage for small keepsakes.

How Do They Compare? Bettergoods vs. Other Macaron Brands

As someone who has tried macarons from numerous sources—from famous Parisian shops to local bakeries—I’m often asked how Bettergoods compares to other brands. While taste is subjective, I can offer some objective comparisons based on my extensive (and delicious) research.

Bettergoods vs. Luxury French Brands

Compared to famous French macaron houses like Ladurée or Pierre Hermé, Bettergoods holds its own remarkably well. The texture and balance of their macarons is comparable to these prestigious establishments, which is impressive considering the logistics involved in producing fresh macarons for the American market.

Where Bettergoods sometimes edges ahead is in their willingness to experiment with flavors that appeal specifically to American palates. Their Peanut Butter and Jelly macaron, for instance, offers a playful nod to American nostalgia while maintaining French technique.

Price-wise, Bettergoods is generally on par with or slightly less expensive than imported French brands, while offering comparable quality and fresher product due to local production.

Bettergoods vs. Local Patisseries

Compared to most local bakeries, Bettergoods offers more consistent quality and a wider flavor selection. While talented local pastry chefs can certainly produce excellent macarons, the specialized focus of Bettergoods allows them to perfect their recipes and techniques in ways that generalist bakeries often cannot.

That said, exceptional local patisseries in major cities sometimes offer unique flavors reflecting regional ingredients that you won’t find in the Bettergoods lineup. If you’re fortunate enough to live near a truly outstanding local macaron maker, you might enjoy alternating between them and Bettergoods for different occasions.

Bettergoods vs. Mass-Market Options

When compared to mass-produced macarons found in supermarkets or chain stores, Bettergoods is in an entirely different category. The difference in texture, flavor intensity, and overall experience is immediately apparent and justifies the price difference.

Mass-market macarons often suffer from excessive sweetness, artificial flavoring, and textural issues like hollow shells or gummy interiors. After experiencing Bettergoods’ quality, it’s difficult to enjoy these mass-produced alternatives.

Inside Information: Production Practices

One aspect that draws me to Bettergoods is their transparency about their production practices. Unlike many food brands that keep their methods shrouded in mystery, Bettergoods regularly shares insights into their process through social media and their blog.

Small-Batch Production

While Bettergoods has grown significantly since their founding, they maintain a commitment to small-batch production. Rather than operating a single massive facility, they have several regional kitchens that serve different parts of the country. This approach allows them to maintain quality control while ensuring fresher products reach customers.

Each batch of macarons is made by trained pastry chefs rather than on fully automated production lines. This hands-on approach allows for adjustments based on subtle factors like humidity and ingredient variations that can affect the final product.

Ingredient Sourcing

Bettergoods has established relationships with specific suppliers for their key ingredients, ensuring consistency and quality. Their almond flour comes from a single mill that produces a particularly fine grind ideal for macarons. They use free-range eggs from small farms and source specialty ingredients like vanilla beans, pistachios, and chocolate from premium suppliers.

For fruit flavors, they work with seasonal availability, sometimes freezing small batches of fruit puree at peak ripeness to use throughout the year. This commitment to quality ingredients is reflected in the vibrant, authentic flavors of their products.

Sustainability Practices

In recent years, Bettergoods has increased their focus on sustainability. Their packaging has been redesigned to use recycled and recyclable materials wherever possible, and they’ve implemented water conservation measures in their production facilities.

They’ve also established a composting program for food waste and partnered with local agricultural programs to ensure that imperfect macarons (those with cosmetic flaws) don’t go to waste. While these initiatives may seem small, they reflect a company-wide commitment to responsible practices that aligns with my own values as a consumer.

The Community: Reviews and Customer Experiences

One of the joys of being a Bettergoods enthusiast is connecting with fellow macaron lovers. The brand has cultivated a passionate community of customers who share their experiences through reviews, social media, and word of mouth.

Critical Acclaim

Bettergoods has received recognition from food critics and industry publications. They’ve been featured in major food magazines, won several confectionery awards, and been named among the best macaron producers in the United States by various culinary authorities.

What’s particularly impressive is their consistency—year after year, they maintain the quality that earned them these accolades rather than resting on their reputation.

Customer Reviews

Online reviews for Bettergoods are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.7/5 stars across major review platforms. Customers consistently praise the texture, flavor authenticity, and presentation.

When critical reviews do appear, they typically focus on shipping issues or price rather than product quality. To their credit, Bettergoods responds promptly to negative feedback and seems genuinely committed to resolving customer concerns.

My Personal Experience

Over the years, I’ve introduced dozens of friends to Bettergoods Macarons, and the reaction is almost always the same: initial skepticism about the price point followed by genuine surprise at the quality difference compared to other macarons they’ve tried.

Many have become regular customers themselves, citing the consistency and uniqueness of the product as key factors in their loyalty. Several friends now request Bettergoods for special occasions, knowing that these treats elevate any celebration.

Special Occasions: Bettergoods for Events

Beyond everyday indulgence, Bettergoods Macarons have become increasingly popular for special events, from intimate gatherings to large celebrations.

Wedding Offerings

Bettergoods has developed a comprehensive wedding program that includes:

• Custom flavor development to complement wedding themes
• Color matching to wedding palettes
• Macaron towers as alternatives to traditional cakes
• Individually packaged favors with personalized tags
• Pre-event tastings and consultations

I attended a wedding last year that featured a Bettergoods macaron display instead of a traditional cake, and it was both visually stunning and a conversation starter among guests. The bride had worked with their events team to create a custom lavender-champagne flavor that perfectly complemented her spring wedding theme.

Corporate Gifting

Bettergoods has also positioned themselves in the corporate gifting market, offering branded packaging and bulk ordering for business clients. Their corporate program includes options for custom logo printing on boxes or ribbon, inclusion of business cards or promotional materials, and direct shipping to multiple recipients.

A friend who works in client relations reports that Bettergoods macarons have become her go-to client gift, as they offer a memorable alternative to the standard wine or gift basket options.

Holiday Pre-Orders

During peak holiday seasons, Bettergoods operates on a pre-order system to manage demand. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day typically require orders to be placed 1-2 weeks in advance to guarantee availability.

I’ve learned through experience that these pre-orders are essential—attempting to purchase Bettergoods macarons the day before Valentine’s Day resulted in disappointment when they were completely sold out!

Deals and Discounts: Maximizing Value

While Bettergoods Macarons are undeniably a premium product, there are several strategies to maximize value and occasionally find discounts on these delightful treats.

Loyalty Program

Bettergoods offers a loyalty program that rewards frequent purchases with points redeemable for discounts or free macarons. The program is free to join and tracks purchases both online and in-store through a phone number or email address.

After accumulating sufficient points (typically around 10 purchases), members receive rewards like a complimentary macaron, percentage discounts, or early access to seasonal flavors. As a regular customer, I’ve found the program worthwhile—those free macarons add up over time!

Seasonal Promotions

Throughout the year, Bettergoods runs limited-time promotions tied to holidays or special events. These might include bundle pricing (like buy 12, get 2 free) or themed collections at special prices.

Their social media accounts and email newsletter are the best sources for information about these promotions, which are typically announced 1-2 weeks before they begin.

Subscription Options

For dedicated enthusiasts, Bettergoods offers subscription packages that provide a monthly delivery of macarons at a discounted rate compared to one-time purchases. Subscriptions are available in various sizes (6, 12, or 24 macarons) and can be customized to include favorite flavors or surprise seasonal selections.

The subscription program includes free shipping and occasional subscriber-exclusive flavors, making it an excellent option for regular macaron consumers or as a recurring gift.

Slightly Imperfect Options

Some Bettergoods locations offer “slightly imperfect” macarons at a reduced price. These macarons have minor cosmetic flaws like slight cracks or irregular shapes but maintain the same excellent flavor and quality as their perfect counterparts.

I’ve purchased these imperfect options several times and found them to be indistinguishable in taste from the full-price versions—a great way to enjoy Bettergoods on a more regular basis without stretching your budget.

Conclusion: Why Bettergoods Macarons Deserve a Place in Your Life

After exploring every aspect of Bettergoods Macarons—from their ingredients and production methods to their flavors and packaging—I remain convinced that they represent the pinnacle of macaron craftsmanship available in the American market.

What began as a curious purchase has evolved into a genuine appreciation for a company that prioritizes quality, innovation, and customer experience. Whether you’re treating yourself to a small indulgence, searching for the perfect gift, or planning a special event, Bettergoods Macarons offer a sophisticated option that consistently delivers both visual beauty and exceptional flavor.

I encourage you to experience these remarkable confections for yourself. Start with a small assortment of classic flavors to establish a baseline, then venture into their more unique offerings as your palate adapts to the subtle complexities of a truly great macaron.

Remember that these are artisanal products meant to be savored rather than consumed mindlessly. Take the time to appreciate the texture, the balance of flavors, and the craftsmanship that goes into each piece. Share them with friends who appreciate fine food, or reserve them as a special self-care ritual when you need a moment of pure pleasure in your day.

Whatever the occasion, Bettergoods Macarons offer a small but meaningful way to elevate everyday experiences into something memorable. And in a world where quality often takes a backseat to convenience, these perfect little confections remind us that some traditions are worth preserving, some standards worth maintaining, and some indulgences entirely justified.

Happy tasting!