Pumpkin Pie Macarons

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic dessert, you’ve found it in these Pumpkin Pie Macarons! These charming little treats are not only visually stunning but also pack the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin pie. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy afternoon treat, they bring the essence of fall to your table in a fun and whimsical way.

What makes this recipe special is how it combines the elegance of French macarons with the beloved flavor of pumpkin pie. With creamy pumpkin spiced frosting and cute pie crust cutouts, these macarons will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: The combination of pumpkin spice and creamy frosting creates a deliciously memorable treat.
• Fun to Make: From piping the shells to assembling the filling, each step is enjoyable and rewarding.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just because, these macarons are sure to impress!
• Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the macaron shells and frostings ahead of time, making your baking day stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that will come together to create these delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons. Most of these items are pantry staples or can be easily found at your local grocery store.

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 (you can also use regular butter)
• 3/4 cups + 2 tbsp confectioners sugar
• Seeds from 1/4 vanilla bean (or gf vanilla)
• pinch of salt
• dash of non-dairy milk.
• 1 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to make your Pumpkin Pie Macarons even more exciting:

• Add Nuts: Incorporate finely chopped pecans into the frosting for added texture and flavor.
• Swap the Filling: Try a chocolate ganache filling instead if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Change Colors: Use different food coloring to create vibrant macaron shells that match your festive decor.
• Spice it Up: Add more cinnamon or nutmeg to your frosting for an extra kick!

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 that any grease is removed so that your egg whites whip up perfectly. Next, prep your piping bag with a round tip—Wilton tip 12 works great!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, mix together the almond meal and powdered sugar. Sifting them once helps remove lumps, giving you a smoother macaron shell. Make sure to create a well in the center before adding in some egg whites; this helps everything blend seamlessly.

Step 3: Create Your Meringue

For the meringue, heat granulated sugar and water in a pot while using a candy thermometer. Once it reaches about 200 degrees F, start whipping those remaining egg whites until soft peaks form. This step is crucial because it gives your macarons their light texture!

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Once your sugar syrup hits 248 degrees F, carefully pour it into your whipped egg whites while mixing at medium speed. Increase speed to high until glossy peaks form—this adds stability to your macarons.

Step 5: Macaronage Time!

Gently fold your meringue into the almond meal mixture in thirds. Be careful not to over-mix; you want smooth batter that holds its shape but isn’t too runny.

Step 6: Pipe Your Shells

Transfer the batter into your piping bag and pipe 1½ inch rounds on lined baking sheets. After tapping out any air bubbles, let them rest until they form a skin—this usually takes about 20-30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F then bake those beauties for about 12-14 minutes. Let them cool completely before removing them from parchment paper; this helps keep their delicate structure intact.

Step 8: Make Your Pie Crust Cutouts

While waiting for those macaron shells to cool, prepare the pie crust cutouts! Combine flour and salt with coconut oil until crumbly; then add ice-cold water until dough forms. Roll out and cut festive shapes before baking them at 375 degrees F until golden brown.

Step 9: Prepare Your Frosting

Mix shortening (or butter), powdered sugar, pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, vanilla, and salt in a stand mixer until smooth. Transfer into another piping bag fitted with a large tip.

Step 10: Assemble Your Macarons

Match up similar-sized macaron shells. Pipe on some pumpkin frosting onto one shell, add a pie crust cutout on top, followed by another swirl of frosting before sandwiching with another shell on top.

Step 11: Finish Off with Style

Top each macaron with a dollop of vanilla frosting to mimic whipped cream. A light dusting of pumpkin pie spice adds that finishing touch!

And there you have it—your very own Pumpkin Pie Macarons ready to dazzle friends and family alike! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Baking macarons can be a delightful challenge, but with these handy tips, you’ll be on your way to creating perfect Pumpkin Pie Macarons every time!

• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients. This ensures precision, which is crucial for the delicate balance needed in macarons.

• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting your almond meal and powdered sugar helps eliminate lumps and creates a smoother batter, resulting in more beautiful macaron shells.

• Properly Whip Egg Whites: Whipping your egg whites to the right consistency is essential. They should form soft peaks before adding the syrup; if they’re under-whipped, your macarons may not rise properly.

• Let Macarons Rest: Allowing the piped macarons to rest until they form a skin will help them develop their signature feet during baking. This step is critical for achieving that perfect look!

• Practice Patience: If you’re new to macaron making, don’t rush through the process. Each step requires attention; take your time to ensure proper mixing and baking for the best results.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons

These delightful treats not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any dessert table! Here are some creative ideas on how to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Pumpkin Spice Dust: A light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice over the top mimics whipped cream and adds an inviting aroma.
• Caramel Drizzle: A warm drizzle of vegan caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.
• Crispy Pie Crust Cutouts: Arrange additional mini pie crust cutouts around the macarons for a festive touch that emphasizes their pumpkin pie flavor.

Side Dishes

• Spiced Chai Latte: The warming spices in chai complement the pumpkin flavor perfectly, creating a cozy pairing for afternoon tea or coffee break.
• Apple Crisp: The sweetness and crunch of baked apples mixed with oats make this dish a comforting addition that balances well with the richness of the macarons.
• Maple Pecan Pie: This classic dessert offers a deep, nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the lighter taste of pumpkin pie macarons, making it ideal for holiday gatherings.
• Vanilla Almond Milkshake: A creamy milkshake made from almond milk and vanilla ice cream provides a refreshing contrast to the chewy texture of macarons while keeping things dairy-free.

Now you’re all set to bake and serve these irresistible Pumpkin Pie Macarons! Enjoy sharing them with friends and family during special occasions or cozy evenings at home. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons are perfect for meal prep! With their unique flavors and beautiful presentation, they can easily be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy them fresh whenever you’re ready.

Storing Leftovers

• Store macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, ensuring they are well sealed.

Freezing

• Place the fully assembled macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Allow frozen macarons to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
• For best results, bring them back to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

FAQs

If you have questions about making Pumpkin Pie Macarons, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

What makes Pumpkin Pie Macarons special?

Pumpkin Pie Macarons combine the classic flavors of pumpkin pie with the delicate texture of French macarons. The result is a unique dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite!

Can I use different flavors instead of pumpkin pie?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on pumpkin pie, you can customize your macarons by using different flavored fillings or extracts to suit your taste preferences.

How do I know if my macaron shells are done baking?

Macaron shells should have formed feet during baking and should not be wobbly when gently touched. They will also have a slightly glossy surface.

Are Pumpkin Pie Macarons suitable for special diets?

Yes! This recipe uses plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and vegan butter, making it suitable for those avoiding animal products.

How long do Pumpkin Pie Macarons last?

When stored properly at room temperature, they can last up to 3 days; however, refrigeration extends their freshness to about a week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Macarons as much as I do! They not only bring festive cheer but also provide a delightful twist on traditional desserts. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or just a sweet treat at home, I’m sure they’ll impress your family and friends. Happy baking!