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 biting into a delicate macaron filled with pumpkin spiced frosting and topped with a touch of vanilla to mimic whipped cream. It’s like enjoying a slice of pumpkin pie in a fancy French cookie form! They’re perfect for family gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or as a sweet gift to friends.

Making macarons might seem a bit daunting, but I assure you, it’s all about practice and patience. Plus, once you master them, you’ll be the star of every dessert table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: These macarons combine the classic taste of pumpkin pie with the elegance of French pastries.
• Fun to Make: The process is enjoyable and allows for creativity in decorating your cookies!
• Impressive Presentation: They look so fancy that no one will believe you made them at home.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these sweet bites—perfect for any celebration!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the shells in advance and fill them just before serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Let’s gather everything you need for your 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 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 cups 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
• 1 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize your macarons to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas:

• Change the Spice: Swap out pumpkin pie spice for a chai blend for a different flavor twist.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate finely chopped nuts into your filling for extra texture.
• Switch Up Colors: Use different colors for your food coloring to match any occasion or holiday theme!
• Try Different Fillings: Experiment with flavors like chocolate ganache or caramel for a unique surprise inside.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Start by wiping down your mixing bowl and whisk attachment with vinegar. This step ensures that no residue interferes with whipping your egg whites. A clean workspace leads to perfect macarons!

Step 2: Measure Your Ingredients

Prep and measure all ingredients using a kitchen scale. Accurate measurements are key in baking, especially when making macarons. This attention to detail will help ensure success.

Step 3: Create Your Piping Bag

Prepare your piping bag with a round tip; I recommend using Wilton tip 12. This will make it easy to pipe even rounds onto your baking sheets.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

Line two baking sheets with silpat or parchment paper. In a bowl, mix almond meal and powdered sugar together. Sift once to remove lumps—this ensures smooth macaron shells.

Step 5: Make Your Colorful Batter

Make a well in the dry mixture and add the first set of egg whites (41 grams). Fold gently until blended, then add food coloring until incorporated. The final mix should look like thick paste—this is where all the magic begins!

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Syrup

For the sugar syrup, combine granulated sugar and water in a pot over medium heat with a candy thermometer attached. Watch closely until it reaches 248 degrees F while whisking the second set of egg whites (45 grams) to soft peaks.

Step 7: Combine Syrup and Meringue

Once your syrup reaches temperature, quickly pour it into the meringue while whisking on medium speed. This creates stability in your macaron shells. Increase speed until glossy peaks form!

Step 8: Fold in Meringue Mixture

Gently fold this meringue into your almond meal mixture in thirds until combined. The goal is smooth batter that flows like ribbons off your spatula—be careful not to over-mix!

Step 9: Pipe Your Rounds

Transfer batter into prepared piping bags and pipe 1½ inch rounds on lined baking sheets about an inch apart. Hold steady while piping for even shapes!

Step 10: Rest Before Baking

Let the piped macarons rest until they form a skin—usually around 20-30 minutes. This step helps them develop those signature feet during baking!

Step 11: Bake Away!

Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F and bake for about 12-14 minutes on the middle rack. Allow them to cool completely before removing from parchment.

Step 12: Create Your Pie Crust Cutouts

While your shells cool, preheat oven again—this time to 375 degrees F. Mix flour and salt; cut in coconut oil until crumbly, then add ice-cold water until dough forms! Roll out dough and cut festive shapes.

Step 13: Bake Pie Crust Shapes

Brush cutouts with egg white if desired; dust lightly with cinnamon sugar before placing on lined baking sheets. Bake until golden brown.

Step 14: Prepare Frostings

In separate bowls, mix up both frostings—the pumpkin filling and vanilla topping—until smooth. Transfer each to piping bags fitted with appropriate tips.

Step 15: Assemble Your Macarons

Match up shells by size; pipe generous dollops of pumpkin frosting on half of them with pie crust cutouts placed center stage! Top off each sandwich with vanilla frosting mimicking whipped cream.

And there you have it! Delicious Pumpkin Pie Macarons that are sure to impress everyone around you! Enjoy this delightful treat during fall festivities or whenever you’re craving something sweet.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Creating the perfect macaron can be a bit tricky, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to mastering these delightful treats!

• Measure accurately: Utilizing a kitchen scale ensures that your ingredients are precise, which is crucial for achieving the right texture in macarons.
• Don’t skip the resting period: Allowing your piped macarons to rest before baking helps form a skin, which is essential for that beautiful foot and smooth surface.
• Watch the oven closely: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your macarons while they bake to prevent over-baking and to ensure they maintain their lovely shape.
• Use room temperature egg whites: Letting your egg whites sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before whipping will help them reach their full volume, giving you a better meringue.
• Practice patience: Macarons require time and gentle handling. Take it slow during the mixing and piping processes to avoid deflating the batter!

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Serving your Pumpkin Pie Macarons beautifully elevates their appeal—perfect for impressing friends or family at any gathering. Here are some fun ways to present these delicious desserts!

Garnishes

• Dust with extra pumpkin pie spice: A light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice on top adds visual appeal and reinforces that cozy fall flavor.
• Add edible glitter: A touch of edible glitter can make your macarons sparkle, adding a festive look for special occasions.

Side Dishes

• Warm Spiced Apple Cider: This comforting drink pairs perfectly with the flavors of pumpkin, making it an ideal accompaniment for serving alongside the macarons.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce contrasts beautifully with the sweet flavors of the macarons, creating a delightful balance on the palate.
• Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup serves as a savory counterpart to these sweet treats, offering guests a well-rounded dining experience.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can complement the sweet notes of the macarons while providing a savory option for those who prefer something less sweet.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create stunning Pumpkin Pie Macarons that will delight everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy this delicious journey into French pastry-making!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or holiday celebrations! You can prepare the components ahead of time and store them for a fresh, delicious treat whenever you’re ready.

Storing Leftovers

• Store macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them; they will last up to a week when chilled.
• Allow macarons to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

• Freeze unfilled macaron shells in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• For filled macarons, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month.
• Thaw filled macarons in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

• Macarons are best enjoyed at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat them.
• If you prefer a slight crispness, allow the shells to sit out for about 30 minutes after refrigeration before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Pie Macarons:

Can I use different flavors instead of pumpkin pie?

Absolutely! You can substitute the pumpkin puree and spices with other flavored fillings like chocolate or vanilla. Just be sure to adjust other ingredients accordingly.

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Pie Macarons turn out perfect?

Following each step carefully is key! Pay attention to the meringue consistency and don’t skip resting the piped shells. This helps achieve that lovely “foot” that makes macarons so special.

Can I make Pumpkin Pie Macarons dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based butter or shortening as specified in the recipe. Additionally, choose non-dairy milk alternatives for any required liquid ingredients.

What is the best way to serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

These delightful treats are perfect on their own but also shine as part of a dessert platter at gatherings. Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy experience!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these charming Pumpkin Pie Macarons as much as I do! They’re not only visually stunning but also packed with festive flavors that bring joy to any occasion. Don’t hesitate to share your creations, and remember – baking is all about having fun and expressing yourself. Happy baking!