Pumpkin Pie Macarons

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall, then these Pumpkin Pie Macarons are just what you need! They combine the classic flavors of pumpkin pie with the delicate, chewy goodness of French macarons. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, cozy family dinners, or simply as a sweet treat for yourself, these little delights will surely impress your loved ones.

What makes this recipe even more special is the way it brings together two beloved treats into one. The luscious pumpkin spiced frosting and cute pie crust cutouts make these macarons not only delicious but visually stunning as well. Trust me, once you try making these Pumpkin Pie Macarons, they’ll become a cherished addition to your dessert repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: These macarons blend the flavors of classic pumpkin pie with a French twist.
• Festive Appeal: They make a beautiful centerpiece for any fall gathering or holiday celebration.
• Fun to Make: The process of making macarons is a rewarding experience that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
• Customizable: With different fillings and colors, you can make these macarons truly your own!
• Vegan-Friendly Options: Using plant-based ingredients means everyone can enjoy them.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for these Pumpkin Pie Macarons are simple and wholesome. Each one plays its part in creating that perfect combination of flavor and texture. 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 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 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 gf 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
• Pinch of salt

Variations

The beauty of Pumpkin Pie Macarons lies in their flexibility! Feel free to personalize this recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:

• Add Different Flavors: Swap out pumpkin puree for another fruit puree like apple or pecan to create unique variations.
• Use Alternative Colors: Change up the food coloring to create seasonal themes—think green and red for Christmas!
• Try Different Fillings: Experiment with other frostings like chocolate ganache or caramel for a rich twist.
• Make Mini Versions: Use a smaller piping tip to create bite-sized macarons that are perfect for parties.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Start by wiping down your mixing bowl and whisk attachment with vinegar. This little trick helps remove any residue so your egg whites can whip up perfectly! Then, prepare a piping bag fitted with a round tip—Wilton tip 12 works great—and line two baking sheets with silpat mats or parchment paper.

Step 2: Create the Dry Mix

Combine the measured almond meal and powdered sugar in a bowl. Sift them once to get rid of lumps; this ensures smooth macaron shells. Make a well in the center and pour in 41 grams of egg whites. Gently fold until blended, then mix in your desired food coloring until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Make Sugar Syrup

In a pot over medium heat, combine granulated sugar and water along with a candy thermometer attached to the side (just make sure it doesn’t touch the bottom!). Once it reaches about 200 degrees F, start whisking 45 grams of egg whites in your stand mixer until soft peaks form.

Step 4: Combine Egg Whites and Syrup

When your syrup hits 248 degrees F, remove from heat. Gradually pour it into the soft-peak egg whites while mixing on medium speed. This step is crucial; it creates that glossy meringue we love! Increase speed to high until medium peaks form.

Step 5: Fold Together

Gently fold the meringue into your dry mixture in thirds. It’s important not to over-mix here; you want smooth batter that forms thick ribbons when drizzled off a spatula.

Step 6: Pipe and Rest

Transfer your batter into prepared piping bags and pipe rounds about an inch apart on lined sheets. Tap them gently on the counter three times to release air bubbles, then let them rest until they form a skin—this usually takes about 20-30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. Once dry to touch, bake the macarons on the middle rack for 12-14 minutes until they develop those lovely feet!

Step 8: Cool Down

After baking, let them cool down on the sheets before gently removing them. Patience is key here; allow them to cool completely before filling!

Step 9: Make Your Frosting

In another bowl, mix together shortening (or butter), confectioners sugar, milk, vanilla bean seeds, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined. Transfer this delicious frosting into piping bags too!

Step 10: Assemble Your Masterpieces

Match up macaron shells by size. On one shell’s underside (feet side up), pipe some pumpkin frosting followed by placing a cute pie crust cutout right in the center. Top it off with another swirl of frosting before adding another shell on top—feet side down!

Step 11: Final Touches

To mimic whipped cream, pipe a dollop of vanilla frosting on each macaron’s top and finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

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

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Making macarons can be a bit tricky, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to perfecting your Pumpkin Pie Macarons!

• Use a kitchen scale: Precision is key in macaron making. Weighing your ingredients ensures that your ratios are spot on, leading to the perfect texture and rise.

• Let the macarons rest: Allowing piped macarons to rest until a skin forms is crucial. This step helps create the signature feet, giving your macarons their beautiful appearance and chewy texture.

• Check oven temperatures: Every oven is different! Use an oven thermometer to ensure that you’re baking at the correct temperature, which will prevent overbaking or underbaking your delicate shells.

• Practice piping technique: Hold the piping bag steady and perpendicular to the baking sheet to achieve even rounds. The more consistent your shape, the more uniform your finished macarons will look!

• Be patient with cooling: Letting your macarons cool completely before removing them from the parchment paper is vital. This prevents cracks and helps maintain their structure.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons

These delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons can be served in various creative ways that enhance their fall-inspired theme and charm!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds an extra layer of creaminess and complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
• Crushed graham crackers: Sprinkling crushed graham crackers on top gives a nod to traditional pumpkin pie crusts while adding delightful texture.

Side Dishes

• Spiced chai tea: This warm beverage pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors, providing a comforting drink option that enhances the overall dessert experience.

• Apple cider: A glass of fresh apple cider brings out fruity notes that contrast nicely with the rich pumpkin filling, making it a seasonal favorite.

• Caramelized pecans: These sweet, crunchy nuts add an indulgent twist and complement the spices in the macarons beautifully for a satisfying crunch.

With these serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Pie Macarons will not only taste divine but also look incredibly inviting on any dessert table! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat whenever you crave something sweet! With proper storage, you can keep them fresh and delicious for days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the filled macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For optimal freshness, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• If you have unfilled shells, they can be stored for up to a week in the same manner.

Freezing

• To freeze, place unfilled 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 will keep well for up to a month.
• For filled macarons, freeze them individually and then store together; consume within 2-3 weeks for best flavor.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat macarons since they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
• If frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying them at room temperature.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Pumpkin Pie Macarons that might help you along your baking journey!

Can I make Pumpkin Pie Macarons ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the macaron shells and filling in advance. Just store the shells and filling separately until you’re ready to assemble.

What is the secret to perfect Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

The key is mastering the meringue and macaronage technique while ensuring your ingredients are measured accurately. Patience is essential!

How do I prevent my Pumpkin Pie Macarons from cracking?

Make sure you allow your piped macarons to rest until a skin forms before baking. This helps them rise beautifully without cracks.

Can I use different flavors instead of pumpkin?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other flavors by substituting the pumpkin puree with other purees or extracts that you enjoy.

Why do my macaron shells spread too much?

If your macarons spread out too much when piped, it could be due to overmixing during the macaronage process or not letting them rest long enough before baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Pumpkin Pie Macarons inspires you to bring a little festive joy into your kitchen! These delightful treats combine the warm flavors of pumpkin pie with the elegance of French macarons. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or simply indulging in a sweet moment, these macarons are sure to impress. Enjoy every step of making these charming confections, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!