Baked by Melissa has finally revived its iconic Cupcarons, and I tasted every single one. A limited-edition Emily in Paris collection dropped to mark the Season 5 premiere, introducing a pastry mashup that fans will either swoon over or roll their eyes at. The lineup nods to Parisian chic, Italian flair, and the show’s signature over-the-top vibe, making this collab feel both celebratory and a little provocative in the best way.
The standout moment? Cupcarons—the long-missed fusion of mini cupcakes and macaron shells—are back. It’s a crossover that’s sparked chatter among pastry lovers and Netflix binge-watchers alike. I never expected to see these hybrid treats again, yet here they are.
First impressions
Opening the box brought a sense of theatrical drama. Visually stunning: bold, glossy frostings, bright colors, and three flavors crowned with real macarons perched atop. It’s the kind of presentation that makes you imagine Sylvie rolling her eyes while Emily squeals with delight.
Flavor profile and structure
This lineup stays true to Baked by Melissa’s wheelhouse: tiny bites with bold, unapologetic flavor pairs. Introducing a macaron shell on a cupcake the size of a nickel shifts the balance—the macaron becomes the star, with the cupcake playing a supporting role. Expect about three-quarters macaron crunch to one-quarter cake as the structure pivots around the shell.
The flavors included
Strawberry Crêpe Cupcaron
A strawberry cake with Nutella inside, strawberry icing, a white macaron, and a chocolate drizzle. Nutella adds richness, but the macaron still takes the spotlight.
Rainbow Cookie Cupcaron
This one is the design darling—the rainbow nonpareils look adorable and nod to classic Italian rainbow cookies. The almond cake is tasty, but the macaron shell steals the show visually and sonically.
Salted Caramel Cupcaron
Vanilla cake with a coffee filling topped by a caramel macaron. The coffee note is present but balanced, offering a sweeter, not cloying finish.
Chocolate Rose (not a Cupcaron)
The sleeper hit: straightforward chocolate cake with hot pink icing and no macaron on top. This version highlights the cupcake itself—pure, clean, and unfussy.
Bottom line
For seasoned Baked by Melissa fans, this seasonal drop delivers. If Emily in Paris is your jam, it’s an ideal watch-party treat or a charming gift for the friend who always debates Gabriel’s restaurant storyline. Is this the collaboration of the century? It feels chaotic, pastel, and a touch impractical—exactly the sort of audacious move Emily would endorse. Would you dare try all of them, or pick a favorite to defend in the comments? And what’s your take on the Cupcaron revival—nostalgia or novelty at its best?
