Pumpkin Pie Macarons

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to impress your friends and family, these Pumpkin Pie Macarons are just the ticket! With their delicate shells, bursting pumpkin flavor, and creamy frosting, they capture all the cozy vibes of fall. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or any autumn celebration. Plus, making macarons can be such a fun activity to share with loved ones in the kitchen!

These little French confections not only taste amazing but also look adorable on any dessert table. The vibrant colors and festive shapes will surely bring smiles all around. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become a cherished favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Follow: This recipe breaks down the macaron-making process step-by-step, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved! Piping the batter and decorating the macarons is a great way to bond.
• Make Ahead: These treats can be prepared in advance, so you can enjoy more time with your guests!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin spice and creamy frosting creates an irresistible fall flavor that everyone will love.
• Festive Presentation: With cute pie crust cutouts and a dollop of frosting, these macarons are as beautiful as they are tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons feature simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious treats:

For the Macaron Shells

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

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 the Fillings

• 1/2 cup organic shortening or vegan butter (you can also use 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

For the Pumpkin Pie Frosting

• 1/2 cup shortening (plant-based butter or dairy butter)
• 1 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• Pinch of salt

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize your Pumpkin Pie Macarons:

• Add Chocolate: Mix in some cocoa powder to your macaron batter for a chocolate twist.
• Change Up the Spice: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for unique flavor profiles.
• Try Different Fillings: Use different frostings like cream cheese or caramel for an exciting surprise.
• Make Mini Versions: Use smaller piping tips to create bite-sized macarons for easy snacking.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Begin by wiping down your mixing bowl and whisk attachment with vinegar. This step is essential as it removes any residue that could prevent your egg whites from whisking up properly into a fluffy meringue.

Step 2: Measure and Prep Ingredients

Take some time to measure out all your ingredients using a kitchen scale. This ensures accuracy and helps everything come together seamlessly. It’s like setting yourself up for success before diving into a fun project!

Step 3: Make Your Macaron Shell Mixture

In a bowl, combine the almond meal and powdered sugar. Sift it once to eliminate lumps; this makes sure your macarons have that smooth texture we all love. Create a well in the center and add 41 grams of egg whites. Gently fold until blended before adding food coloring. The mixture should be paste-like—set it aside while you prepare the meringue.

Step 4: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

In a pot over medium heat, combine granulated sugar and water with a candy thermometer attached. Keeping an eye on it is crucial here; when it reaches about 200°F, start whisking the 45 grams of egg whites in your stand mixer until soft peaks form.

Step 5: Combine Meringue and Dry Ingredients

When your syrup hits 248°F, carefully pour it into your whipped egg whites while mixing on medium speed. Once combined, increase to high speed until glossy peaks form and everything cools down nicely.

Step 6: Fold Everything Together

Transfer one-third of your meringue into the almond/powdered sugar mixture, folding gently until fully incorporated before adding more meringue. Continue this process until you achieve smooth ribbons of batter—this is where patience counts!

Step 7: Pipe Your Macarons

Fill your piping bag with the batter and pipe rounds onto lined baking sheets—about 1½ inches apart. Remember to tap them gently on the counter afterward; this releases any air bubbles that may have formed.

Step 8: Bake!

Let your piped macarons rest until dry to touch—this usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 300°F, then bake on the middle rack for about 12-14 minutes until they’ve formed those lovely feet we adore.

Step 9: Cool & Assemble

Once baked, allow them to cool completely before removing from parchment paper or silpat mats. While they cool down, get started on those cute pie crust cutouts! Roll out your dough, cut into shapes, brush with egg white if you’d like (for shine!), sprinkle with sugar/cinnamon if desired, then bake them until golden brown.

Final Assembly

Match up macaron shells by size. Start with one shell upside down; pipe a swirl of pumpkin pie frosting onto it followed by placing one pie crust cutout in its center—then top with another macaron shell! Add a dollop of vanilla frosting on top to mimic whipped cream and finish off with a dusting of pumpkin pie spice.

And there you have it! A batch of delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons that are sure to impress at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Making macarons can be a delightful yet challenging experience, but with the right tips, you can create these gorgeous treats with ease!

• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to ensure your ingredients are precise. This is crucial for achieving the perfect macaron texture, as even slight deviations can affect the outcome.

• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting almond meal and powdered sugar not only removes lumps but also aerates the mixture. This results in a smoother batter, leading to beautifully risen macarons.

• Be Patient While Resting: Allow your piped macarons to rest until they form a skin before baking. This step helps them develop their iconic “feet” and prevents cracking during baking.

• Watch the Oven Temperature: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your macarons as they bake, and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure consistent heat. Undercooking or overcooking can lead to disappointing results.

• Experiment with Colors and Flavors: Feel free to get creative with food coloring and flavor extracts! While this recipe focuses on pumpkin pie spice, adding a touch of orange or brown coloring gives your macarons that festive fall look.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Serving your Pumpkin Pie Macarons can be just as fun as making them! These lovely little treats are sure to impress at your next gathering or holiday celebration.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds extra creaminess and complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

• Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of vegan caramel sauce enhances the presentation and adds a sweet contrast that pairs well with pumpkin spices.

Side Dishes

• Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai complement the flavors of pumpkin pie, creating a comforting beverage pairing that guests will adore.

• Cranberry Sauce: This tart side dish cuts through the sweetness of the macarons, offering a refreshing balance that enhances every bite.

• Apple Cider Doughnuts: For a cozy dessert spread, serve these seasonal doughnuts alongside your macarons. Their cinnamon-sugar coating will harmonize with the pumpkin flavors perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only make delicious Pumpkin Pie Macarons but also present them beautifully for any occasion! Enjoy sharing them with family and friends—you might just become known as the macaron master!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for a holiday gathering or simply want to enjoy them throughout the week, these delightful treats can be made in advance and stored properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them; they can last up to a week when stored this way.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
• Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

• Macarons are best enjoyed at room temperature. If you’ve stored them in the fridge or freezer, let them sit out for about 30 minutes before indulging.
• Avoid reheating as it may alter their delicate texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Pumpkin Pie Macarons!

Can I make Pumpkin Pie Macarons without almond meal?

Yes! You can substitute almond meal with finely ground sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Just be aware that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.

How do I achieve perfect Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

To achieve perfect Pumpkin Pie Macarons, ensure that you carefully follow the macaronage technique and let your piped shells rest until they form a skin before baking. This will help achieve those beautiful feet!

What’s the best way to store leftover Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

Store leftover Pumpkin Pie Macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For long-term storage, freeze them!

Can I use different flavors instead of pumpkin?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors by replacing the pumpkin puree and spices with your favorites, like chocolate or vanilla.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it does me! These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are not just delicious but also a fun way to celebrate the fall season. Enjoy making these delightful treats and share them with friends and family. Happy baking!