Pumpkin Pie Macarons

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, these Pumpkin Pie Macarons are just what you need. Imagine the crispness of autumn air paired with the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice, all wrapped up in a delicate French macaron. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply to enjoy with a warm cup of tea on a chilly afternoon. Trust me; once you taste these little bites of joy, they will quickly become a seasonal favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: The combination of pumpkin spice and creamy frosting creates a mouthwatering experience for your taste buds.
• Fun to Make: Making macarons is like an art project! You’ll love the process of piping and decorating your treats.
• Perfect for Sharing: These adorable cookies are great for parties and gatherings, making them an instant crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with colors and decorations to make these macarons uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring these Pumpkin Pie Macarons to life. You might already have many of these in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Pumpkin Pie Filling

• 1/2 cup organic shortening or vegan butter (you can also use regular butter)
• 3/4 cup + 2 tbsp confectioners sugar
• 1 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Coconut Oil Pie Crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp ice cold water

For Decorating

• Granulated sugar and cinnamon (for dusting, optional)
• Dash of non-dairy milk

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to personalize your Pumpkin Pie Macarons in fun ways! Here are some ideas:

• Add Chocolate: Mix in some cocoa powder into half the batter for chocolate macaron shells.
• Switch Up the Spice: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger in your frosting.
• Colorful Toppings: Use colored sprinkles instead of dusting with pumpkin spice for a festive flair.
• Different Fillings: Trade out the pumpkin filling for flavors like caramel or chocolate ganache.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Mixing Bowl

Start by wiping down your mixing bowl and whisk attachment with vinegar. This step is crucial because it removes any residue that could prevent your egg whites from whipping up properly. Clean equipment leads to better meringue!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together your almond meal and powdered sugar. This ensures that there are no lumps and helps create a smooth macaron shell. Once sifted, mix them gently to break up any clumps.

Step 3: Create Your Meringue

Heat granulated sugar and water in a pot until it reaches about 248 degrees F while whisking the remaining egg whites in your stand mixer until soft peaks form. When done right, this creates a glossy meringue that will give structure to your macarons.

Step 4: Fold It All Together

Gently fold the finished meringue into your dry mixture in thirds. Be careful not to over-mix; you want it smooth but still able to hold its shape when piped onto the baking sheet.

Step 5: Pipe Your Shells

Transfer your batter into the piping bag and pipe small circles onto lined baking sheets. Hold the piping bag steady about half an inch above the surface for even shapes.

Step 6: Bake!

Let those piped rounds rest until they form a skin—this usually takes about 20-30 minutes—before popping them into a preheated oven at 300 degrees F. Your patience will be rewarded as they bake into beautiful little shells.

Step 7: Assemble Your Macarons

Once cooled, it’s time to fill those shells! Pipe on your pumpkin pie frosting onto one shell, add a cute pie crust cutout on top, then place another shell on top. Finish it off with a dollop of vanilla frosting to mimic whipped cream.

And there you have it—your very own batch of Pumpkin Pie Macarons! Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with friends and family (or keep them all to yourself)!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Making pumpkin pie macarons can be a delightful experience, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure success!

• Use aged egg whites: Allow your egg whites to sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours. This helps them whip up to a better volume and creates a stable meringue.

• Sift your dry ingredients: Sifting the almond meal and powdered sugar not only removes lumps but also aerates the mixture, leading to a smoother macaron shell.

• Don’t rush the resting period: Letting your piped macarons rest until they form a skin is crucial. This step prevents cracking during baking and ensures that beautiful feet form on the shells.

• Monitor your oven temperature: Every oven is different, so invest in an oven thermometer if you can. Baking macarons requires precision, and too high or too low temperatures can alter their texture.

• Practice patience: If it’s your first time making macarons, don’t be discouraged if they don’t turn out perfect on the first try. Each batch will teach you something new!

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons

These adorable pumpkin pie macarons are perfect for any gathering or festive occasion! You can present them beautifully on platters or gift boxes, making them an ideal treat for sharing with friends and family.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkling of cinnamon sugar over the top adds flavor and a nice finishing touch.
• Miniature Pie Crust Cutouts: Use leftover pie crust scraps to create festive shapes that complement the theme of your dessert.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of dairy-free chocolate sauce across the tops can add richness and a lovely contrast to the pumpkin flavor.

Side Dishes

• Chai-Spiced Tea: The warm spices in chai tea pair perfectly with pumpkin flavors, creating a cozy beverage option.
• Apple Cider: Serve hot spiced apple cider alongside your macarons for a seasonal treat that enhances the overall experience.
• Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup can serve as a delightful starter, setting the tone for a pumpkin-themed meal.
• Roasted Autumn Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts will balance out the sweetness of the macarons with savory flavors.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to impressing guests at any gathering while enjoying these delightful pumpkin pie macarons!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in a delightful treat anytime you crave something sweet! Here’s how to best store and enjoy them over time.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the fridge where they will stay fresh for about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to two months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen macarons in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• If you prefer them slightly warm, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes after thawing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Pie Macarons:

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan options in Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

Yes, you can substitute regular butter for vegan butter or shortening if preferred. Just ensure it’s softened before mixing!

How do I achieve the perfect texture for my Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

The key to achieving a great texture lies in proper macaronage technique. Be careful not to over-mix; aim for a smooth batter that forms thick ribbons.

What makes these Pumpkin Pie Macarons special?

These macarons capture the essence of pumpkin pie with their spiced filling and festive appearance, making them a unique treat for any occasion!

How long do Pumpkin Pie Macarons last?

When stored correctly, they can last up to three days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Pumpkin Pie Macarons as I am! They’re not only visually stunning but also bursting with that cozy pumpkin spice flavor we all love. Enjoy every step of the process, and don’t hesitate to share your creations! Happy baking!