We disclose the synthesis and composition of a new 1 c1ass of macrocyclic molecules called cyclobenzoins. Cyclobenzoins are prepared from aromatic dialdehydes (including isophthaldehyde, terephthaldehyde, and phthaldehyde, and larger versions thereof} in a single step through cyanidecatalyzed benzoin condensation. They are potential platforms for binding of cations (through their multiple oxygen-based functional groups), an ions (through their multiple benzene rings and 0 - H functionalities), and are also appealing as porous materials with high solution-phase processability.