Pumpkin Pie Macarons

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, then these Pumpkin Pie Macarons are just what you need! They bring together the delicate French macaron with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin pie. Imagine biting into a crisp shell filled with creamy pumpkin spiced frosting and topped with a dollop of vanilla frosting to mimic whipped cream—pure bliss! These little wonders are perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, cozy family nights, or whenever you want to add a touch of sweetness to your day.

What makes this recipe even more special is how it combines festive flavors with a fun baking technique. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at macarons for the first time, I promise you’ll find joy in making these delicious Pumpkin Pie Macarons!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Festive: Enjoy the classic flavors of pumpkin pie in an elegant macaron form.
• Fun to Make: The process of creating these cookies is both rewarding and enjoyable!
• Perfect for Sharing: With 24 macarons, there’s plenty to share at gatherings or keep all to yourself.
• Adaptable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your dietary needs or preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: These macarons not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create your Pumpkin Pie Macarons. Gather them up, and let’s get started!

For the Macarons

• 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

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

For the 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 variations to consider:

• Change Up the Flavor: Swap pumpkin puree with other fruit purees like apple or pear for a different taste.
• Add Some Crunch: Mix in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the frosting for added texture.
• Experiment with Color: Use different gel food colors to create vibrant macaron shells that suit any occasion!
• Mini Versions: Pipe smaller circles for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Step 1: Prep Your Equipment

Wipe down your mixing bowl and whisk attachment with vinegar. This step is crucial as it removes any grease, ensuring that your egg whites whip up perfectly. Measure all ingredients using a kitchen scale for accuracy.

Step 2: Make the Shell Mixture

Combine the almond meal and powdered sugar in a bowl, sifting once to remove lumps. This creates a smooth base for your macarons. Then make a well in the center, add 41 grams of egg whites, and fold gently until blended. Add your food coloring and mix until incorporated.

Step 3: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

In a pot over medium heat, combine granulated sugar and water. Attach a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely. Once it reaches about 200°F, start whisking your second batch of egg whites in a stand mixer until soft peaks form.

Step 4: Whip Up That Meringue!

As soon as your syrup hits 248°F, pour it slowly into your whipped egg whites while mixing on medium speed. This will create a glossy meringue—a key element for those lovely macaron feet!

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold one-third of the meringue into your almond mixture at a time. Be careful not to over-mix—just until you achieve thick ribbons that hold their shape when drizzled off your spatula.

Step 6: Pipe Your Shells

Transfer your batter into prepared piping bags and pipe rounds onto lined baking sheets. Tap each sheet on the counter three times to release air bubbles. Let them rest until they form a skin (about 20-30 minutes).

Step 7: Bake Those Beauties

Preheat your oven to 300°F. Once dry to touch, bake your macarons in the middle rack for about 12-14 minutes. When done, let them cool before carefully removing them from parchment paper.

Step 8: Create Your Fillings

While waiting for shells to cool, make pie crust cutouts by combining flour and salt with coconut oil. Roll out dough and cut shapes using cookie cutters before baking until golden brown.

Step 9: Assemble Your Macarons

Match up shells by size. Pipe pumpkin frosting onto half and place pie crust cutouts on top. Finish with another swirl of frosting and top with another shell.

Step 10: Final Touches

To mimic whipped cream, pipe a dollop of vanilla frosting on top and dust lightly with pumpkin pie spice.

Now enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Macarons

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

• Use a kitchen scale – Accurate measurements are crucial for macarons. A kitchen scale ensures you have the right proportions, which is essential for achieving that delicate texture.

• Don’t skip the resting time – Allowing the piped macaron shells to rest until they form a skin is important. This step helps create the signature “feet” and prevents cracking during baking.

• Be gentle with the macaronage – When folding the meringue into the almond meal mixture, do so gently. Over-mixing can lead to flat macarons, while under-mixing may result in uneven surfaces. Aim for a smooth batter that flows like lava.

• Keep your oven temperature consistent – Ovens can vary greatly in temperature accuracy. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure you’re baking at the right temperature, leading to perfectly risen macaron shells.

• Experiment with different flavors – While pumpkin is a seasonal favorite, feel free to play around with other flavor profiles for your filling or shells. This keeps things exciting and allows you to customize your treats!

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons

These delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons not only taste amazing but also make for an eye-catching dessert! Present them in a way that highlights their festive charm and delicious flavors.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon dust – A light sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds an aromatic touch that enhances the pumpkin flavor.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts – For added texture and a nutty flavor, consider sprinkling some finely chopped nuts on top of the vanilla frosting.
• Edible gold leaf – If you want to elevate your presentation even further, add small pieces of edible gold leaf for a luxurious touch.

Side Dishes

• Spiced chai tea – This warm beverage complements the flavors of pumpkin and spices beautifully, making it a cozy pairing for your macarons.
• Apple cider sorbet – The refreshing taste of apple cider sorbet provides a lovely contrast to the richness of the macarons, cleansing the palate between bites.
• Maple pecan scones – These flaky scones bring out the autumn vibes and pair well with coffee or tea during brunch gatherings.
• Caramelized pear salad – A light salad featuring caramelized pears can balance out the sweetness of your macarons while adding freshness to your dessert spread.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re sure to impress friends and family alike with your delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delightful treats ahead of time without compromising on flavor or freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Ensure they are separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• 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.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Macarons are best enjoyed fresh but can be gently warmed if desired.
• Let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving if they have been refrigerated or frozen.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have while making these delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons.

Can I use regular butter instead of shortening in the Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

Yes, you can use regular butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly.

How do I make sure my Pumpkin Pie Macarons have feet?

To achieve those iconic feet, ensure your macarons rest properly before baking. A skin should form on the surface, which helps create that beautiful rise during baking.

Why did my Pumpkin Pie Macarons crack?

Cracking often occurs due to overmixing the batter or not allowing the macarons to rest long enough before baking. Both steps are crucial for achieving smooth shells.

Can I substitute pumpkin spice with other spices?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger as substitutes.

How do I achieve vibrant colors in my Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

Using gel food coloring will give you more vibrant results than liquid food coloring. Add small amounts until you reach your desired shade!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Pumpkin Pie Macarons as I am! They bring a warm touch of fall into any occasion and are sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy making these sweet delights and don’t forget to share your creations—happy baking!