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! These charming little desserts combine the delicate texture of French macarons with the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie. Perfect for gatherings, cozy family dinners, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, they bring a taste of autumn right to your kitchen. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a batch and impress your loved ones with something truly special!

These macarons not only taste amazing but also look adorable on any dessert table. The cute pie crust cutouts and dollop of frosting really mimic the classic pumpkin pie experience, making these treats a festive favorite. So grab your apron, and let’s get started on these delicious Pumpkin Pie Macarons!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: These macarons are bursting with pumpkin flavor and spices, offering a delightful twist on traditional desserts.
• Fun to Make: Whipping up these treats is an enjoyable process that allows you to be creative with colors and designs.
• Perfect for Sharing: With about 24 macarons in this recipe, they’re great for parties or holiday gatherings.
• Customizable Filling: The pumpkin spice frosting can be adjusted to your liking, so feel free to experiment!
• Impressive Presentation: These macarons look stunning and will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You might already have some of these in your pantry! 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 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 Pumpkin Spice Frosting:

• 1/2 cup organic shortening or vegan butter (you can also use regular butter)
• 3/4 cup + 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

For Decorating:

• Granulated sugar and cinnamon for dusting (optional)

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add a Nutty Twist: Incorporate finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the pie crust for added texture and flavor.
• Try Different Colors: Use different shades of food coloring to create a colorful array of macaron shells.
• Swap the Filling: Experiment with other flavors like chocolate ganache or caramel instead of pumpkin spice frosting.
• Make Mini Versions: Use smaller piping tips to create bite-sized macarons that are perfect for snacking.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Step 1: Prep Your Equipment

Wipe down the mixing bowl and whisk attachment with vinegar. This step is crucial because it removes any residue that could prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. Next, gather all your ingredients and measure them using a kitchen scale for accuracy.

Step 2: Prepare the Macaron Batter

Combine almond meal and powdered sugar in a bowl. Sift once to eliminate lumps; this helps create smooth macaron shells. Make a well in the center, pour in 41 grams of egg whites, and fold gently until blended. Add food coloring until you achieve your desired shade – this is where you can get creative!

Step 3: Create the Sugar Syrup

In a pot over medium heat, mix granulated sugar with water while monitoring it closely with a candy thermometer. Once it reaches around 200 degrees F, start whisking the remaining egg whites until soft peaks form. This syrup will help stabilize the meringue when combined.

Step 4: Combine Meringue and Dry Ingredients

As soon as your syrup hits 248 degrees F, pour it carefully into your whipped egg whites while continuing to whisk at medium speed. The mixture should become glossy as you whip it until medium peaks form. Gently fold this meringue into your almond mixture in thirds until just incorporated—be cautious not to over-mix!

Step 5: Pipe and Bake

Transfer your batter into piping bags fitted with round tips. Pipe out small rounds on a lined baking sheet about an inch apart. Let them rest until they form a skin (20-30 minutes), then bake at 300 degrees F for 12-14 minutes. The wait will be worth it when you see those beautiful feet forming!

Step 6: Prepare Pie Crust Cutouts

While waiting for your macarons to cool, preheat your oven again—this time to 375 degrees F—to bake those adorable pie crust cutouts! Mix flour and salt in a bowl before cutting in coconut oil until crumbly. Gradually add ice-cold water until dough forms.

Roll out and cut into shapes using cookie cutters before brushing them lightly with egg white and sprinkling sugar-cinnamon on top if desired. Bake until lightly golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Macarons

Once cooled completely, match up macaron shells by size. Pipe a swirl of pumpkin frosting onto one shell, place a pie crust cutout on top, then cover with another shell before adding more frosting on top to mimic whipped cream!

Finish everything off with a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice. Voilà! Your beautiful Pumpkin Pie Macarons are ready to impress friends and family alike!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Making macarons can be a delightful challenge, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of this French treat!

• Use a kitchen scale: Measuring ingredients by weight ensures accuracy and consistency, which are crucial for perfect macarons. A slight variation can lead to texture issues.

• Rest the piped macarons: Allowing the piped batter to dry for 20-30 minutes before baking helps form a skin on the surface. This step is essential for achieving those coveted macaron feet.

• Watch your oven temperature: Every oven is different! Using an oven thermometer can help you ensure your macarons bake at the right temperature for optimal rise and texture.

• Be gentle during macaronage: Folding the meringue into the almond mixture should be done gently to avoid deflating the egg whites. This maintains the airy structure that makes macarons so light and delicate.

• Experiment with colors: Adding food coloring not only makes your macarons visually appealing but can also tie them into seasonal themes or events, like using orange for fall gatherings.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are a delightful treat that can bring joy to any gathering. Presenting them beautifully will make them even more appealing!

Garnishes

• Pumpkin pie spice dusting: A light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice on top adds color and a fragrant touch that enhances their flavor.
• Miniature pie crust cutouts: Place these whimsical decorations on top of each macaron to emphasize their pumpkin pie inspiration and create visual interest.

Side Dishes

• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the flavors in your macarons perfectly, creating a cozy pairing that’s perfect for fall.
• Cinnamon Whipped Coconut Cream: For those who enjoy a creamy accompaniment, this dairy-free whipped cream infused with cinnamon adds richness without overpowering the delicate flavors of your macarons.
• Apple Cider: A chilled glass of apple cider brings out the autumn vibes while providing a refreshing contrast to the sweet macarons.
• Spiced Hot Chocolate: This indulgent drink pairs beautifully with desserts, making it an ideal choice for serving alongside your Pumpkin Pie Macarons during chilly weather.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re sure to impress anyone who gets to enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are not only a delightful treat but also excellent for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment, making them perfect for gatherings or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them in the same airtight container, where they can last up to a week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze assembled macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat macarons; they are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer serving them warm, let them sit out for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about these delicious Pumpkin Pie Macarons.

Can I use regular butter instead of shortening?

Absolutely! You can use regular butter in place of shortening if you prefer. Just remember that using butter may alter the texture slightly.

How do I achieve the perfect shell for my Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

The key is to ensure your meringue is whipped to glossy medium peaks and that you carefully fold it into the dry ingredients without over-mixing. It’s all about finding that sweet spot!

What makes these Pumpkin Pie Macarons special?

These treats combine the delightful flavors of pumpkin pie with the elegance of French macarons. The spiced frosting and cute pie crust cutouts make them a perfect dessert for fall gatherings.

How can I adjust the sweetness of my macaron filling?

You can adjust the amount of confectioners’ sugar in the filling to suit your taste. Start with less sugar and gradually add more until you reach your desired sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making these Pumpkin Pie Macarons! They not only encapsulate the warmth of autumn flavors but also bring a touch of elegance to any occasion. Enjoy crafting these delightful bites that are sure to impress your friends and family. Happy baking!