Pumpkin Pie Macarons

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic fall favorite, you’ve come to the right place! These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are not only adorable but also bursting with that cozy pumpkin flavor we all love during the season. Imagine taking a bite and being transported to a world filled with spiced goodness—it’s pure joy! They’re perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or even just as a special treat for yourself after a long day.

What makes this recipe truly special is the combination of delicate French macarons filled with luscious pumpkin spiced frosting. Plus, they are decorated with cute pie crust cutouts and topped with a dollop of vanilla frosting, making them look as good as they taste. Trust me, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delectable Flavor: These macarons combine pumpkin spice and sweetness in a way that’s simply irresistible.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: With pie crust cutouts and frosting resembling whipped cream, they are sure to impress at any gathering.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Get your little ones involved in decorating these festive treats; they’ll love it!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the shells ahead of time and fill them just before serving.
• A Unique Dessert: Stand out from traditional desserts with these creative Pumpkin Pie Macarons!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Gather these items to create your delicious Pumpkin Pie Macarons:

For the Macaron Shells

• 106 grams of almond meal
• 106 grams powdered sugar
• 41 grams of egg whites
• 45 grams of egg whites
• 115 grams of granulated sugar
• 79 grams of water
• Dash of cream of tartar or lemon juice (for stabilizing)
• Orange and brown powdered or gel food coloring

For the Pie Crust Cutouts

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp ice cold water
• Granulated sugar and cinnamon (for dusting, optional)

For the Pumpkin Frosting

• 1/2 cup organic shortening or vegan butter (or regular butter)
• 3/4 cups + 2 tbsp confectioners sugar
• Seeds from 1/4 vanilla bean (or gluten-free vanilla)
• Pinch of salt
• Dash of non-dairy milk
• 1 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

Variations

One of the best things about these Pumpkin Pie Macarons is how flexible the recipe can be! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Experiment with Flavors: Swap out the pumpkin puree for apple butter or sweet potato puree for a different seasonal taste.
• Add Chocolate: Incorporate cocoa powder into the macaron shells or fill them with chocolate ganache for an indulgent touch.
• Try Different Colors: Use vibrant food colors to make festive macarons that match your party theme!
• Make Mini Versions: Use smaller piping tips to create bite-sized macarons that are perfect for snacking.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Start by wiping down your mixing bowl and whisk attachment with vinegar. This step ensures there’s no residue left over that could affect how well your egg whites whip up. Prepping everything beforehand will help streamline the process.

Step 2: Measure Your Ingredients

Using a kitchen scale, measure out all the ingredients meticulously. This precision is key to achieving those perfect macaron shells that have that signature smooth top and lovely feet.

Step 3: Create Your Piping Bag

Prep your piping bag with a round tip—Wilton tip 12 works wonderfully here. Line two baking sheets with silpat mats or parchment paper; this will make transferring your macarons easier once they’re baked.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the almond meal and powdered sugar. Sift it once to remove lumps, then mix it together lightly to break up clumps. This mixture is what gives macarons their unique texture.

Step 5: Combine Egg Whites

Make a well in your dry mixture and pour in 41 grams of egg whites. Fold it gently until it’s blended, then add your food coloring. You want this mixture to resemble thick paste—set it aside while we work on our sweet sugar syrup.

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Syrup

In a pot over medium heat, combine granulated sugar and water while attaching a candy thermometer to keep track of temperature accurately. Once it hits around 200°F, begin whisking the remaining egg whites in your stand mixer until soft peaks form.

Step 7: Combine Syrup and Meringue

When your syrup reaches about 248°F, carefully pour it down the side of the mixing bowl into your whipped egg whites while mixing on medium speed. Then increase speed until you achieve glossy meringue at medium peaks.

Step 8: Fold It All Together

Gently fold one-third of the meringue into your almond mixture at a time until fully incorporated. Be cautious not to over-mix; you want thick ribbons that flow off your spatula without being too runny.

Step 9: Pipe Your Shells

Transfer this beautiful batter into your prepared piping bag. Pipe rounds about an inch apart on your lined baking sheets while keeping the bag steady just above the surface.

Step 10: Rest Before Baking

Now comes an important step—let those piped macarons rest until they form a skin on their surface (about 20-30 minutes). This helps develop those lovely feet during baking!

Step 11: Bake!

Preheat your oven to 300°F. Once dried, bake those beauties in the middle rack for about 12-14 minutes until they have risen slightly but are still soft inside.

Step 12: Cool Down & Fill

Let them cool completely before removing from parchment paper/silpat. While cooling, prepare both fillings as instructed earlier, then assemble by pairing matching shells together! Pipe filling onto one shell before topping it off with another.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Making macarons can be a bit tricky, but with these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting perfect Pumpkin Pie Macarons!

• Measure Accurately: Precision is key in macaron making! Using a kitchen scale ensures that your ingredients are balanced, leading to the right texture and flavor.
• Aging Egg Whites: For best results, consider aging your egg whites. Let them sit at room temperature for 24 hours before use. This helps to stabilize the meringue and creates a lighter macaron.
• Macaronage Technique: Master the macaronage technique by gently folding the meringue into the dry ingredients until it flows smoothly off the spatula. This step is crucial for achieving those delightful feet during baking.
• Resting Time: Allow your piped macarons to rest until they form a skin before baking. This helps prevent cracks and gives you that perfect smooth top.
• Oven Temperature Check: Every oven behaves differently; consider using an oven thermometer to ensure your temperature is spot on. This prevents over or under-baking your delicate treats.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any dessert table. Here are some delightful ways to present them!

Garnishes

• Pumpkin Spice Dusting: A light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice on top adds an aromatic touch and enhances the fall flavors.
• Mini Pie Crust Cutouts: Use leftover pie crust dough to create tiny shapes, enhancing both the visual appeal and theme of pumpkin pie.

Side Dishes

• Spiced Chai Latte: A warm spiced chai complements the flavors of pumpkin beautifully, making it an excellent beverage pairing for these macarons.
• Apple Cider: Serve with hot or cold apple cider for a cozy autumn vibe that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin flavor.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances out the spiced sweetness of the macarons, creating a delightful dessert experience.
• Roasted Nuts: Offer a small bowl of roasted pecans or walnuts on the side for a crunchy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.

With these serving suggestions, you can make your Pumpkin Pie Macarons not just delicious but also an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in delicious desserts without the last-minute rush. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or just craving a sweet treat, these macarons can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Ensure they are separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, place macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If desired, let frozen macarons thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• For a warm dessert experience, microwave them for 5-10 seconds to enjoy their soft texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Pie Macarons.

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter in pumpkin pie macarons?

Absolutely! You can substitute regular butter for vegan butter without any issues. The flavor and texture will remain delightful.

What makes pumpkin pie macarons different from regular macarons?

Pumpkin Pie Macarons feature a unique pumpkin spice frosting that captures the essence of fall flavors. This twist makes them perfect for seasonal celebrations!

How do I get the perfect macaron feet?

To achieve those lovely macaron feet, ensure your batter is mixed properly during the macaronage process, and allow your piped shells to rest until they form a skin before baking.

Can I add more pumpkin spice to my filling?

Yes! Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin spice in your filling according to your taste preference. Just keep balance in mind so it doesn’t overpower the sweetness.

How long does it take to make pumpkin pie macarons?

The total time is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and baking time. They’re worth every minute!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Pumpkin Pie Macarons brings you as much joy as it has brought me! These delightful treats are not only visually stunning but packed with that beloved autumn flavor we all adore. Enjoy creating these little masterpieces in your kitchen – I can’t wait for you to try them! Happy baking!