Micado sticks, also known as "Mikado" biscuits, originated in France as elegant, slender almond cookies often served at celebrations. Their delicate shape and almond flavor make them a classic accompaniment to tea or coffee, and they have become a popular treat for romantic occasions like Valentine's Day.

In northern France, micado sticks are sometimes flavored with hazelnut flour, while in the south they may include orange zest. Some pâtisseries also dip the sticks in dark chocolate or add a drizzle of caramel for a richer flavor profile.

Micado sticks are traditionally presented on a decorative platter, often alongside other petite pastries, and are sometimes paired with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of strong coffee. For Valentine's Day, they are frequently coated in white chocolate and sprinkled with pink sugar for a romantic touch.

Micado biscuits are popular at weddings, anniversaries, and holiday gatherings such as Christmas and Valentine's Day. Their elegant appearance makes them a favored choice for gift boxes and dessert tables.

The combination of toasted almond flour, a light, slightly sticky dough, and the crisp‑baked texture gives micado sticks a distinctive nutty aroma and melt‑in‑the‑mouth feel that sets them apart from other French cookies like madeleines or sablés.

Common errors include over‑toasting the almond flour, which can turn bitter, and over‑mixing the dough, which warms it and makes piping difficult. Also, dipping the sticks in chocolate that is too hot will cause the coating to run off.

The hand mixer gently incorporates the eggs without heating the dough, while the immersion blender ensures a smooth, homogeneous texture without over‑working the batter, preserving the delicate crumb needed for crisp sticks.

Yes, you can bake the sticks up to three days in advance; store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Dip them in chocolate just before serving, or keep the chocolate coating separate and combine when ready to eat.

The sticks should be lightly golden on the edges, firm to the touch, and retain a slender, uniform shape. They will crisp up further as they cool, so avoid over‑baking which can make them too hard.

The YouTube channel JustInCooking specializes in quick, approachable French‑inspired desserts and seasonal treats, offering step‑by‑step tutorials that focus on technique, flavor balance, and elegant presentation for home cooks.

JustInCooking emphasizes minimal equipment, clear visual cues, and practical substitutions while maintaining authentic flavor profiles, making classic French pastries accessible without requiring professional kitchen tools.