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! Imagine the crispness of autumn air and the comforting warmth of pumpkin spice—this recipe brings all those cozy vibes into a delightful French dessert. These macarons are not only beautiful but also bursting with flavor, making them perfect for family gatherings, Thanksgiving celebrations, or simply as a sweet pick-me-up during a busy week.

What makes this recipe extra special is the combination of pumpkin spiced frosting and adorable pie crust cutouts. They’re sure to impress your friends and family alike! Plus, who can resist that dollop of vanilla frosting mimicking whipped cream? So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making these scrumptious Pumpkin Pie Macarons!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious flavor: The warm notes of pumpkin pie spice combined with creamy frosting create a taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Family-friendly fun: Baking these macarons can be a fantastic activity to share with loved ones. Kids will love helping out in the kitchen!
• Make-ahead convenience: These macarons can be made in advance and stored, so you can enjoy them fresh without the last-minute rush.
• Impressive presentation: With their colorful shells and festive decorations, these macarons are sure to steal the spotlight at any dessert table.
• Versatile option: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to cozy evenings at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For these Pumpkin Pie Macarons, you’ll find that most items are staples in your kitchen. 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

For the Pumpkin Pie 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

For the Vanilla Frosting

• 1/2 cup shortening (plant-based butter or dairy butter)
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• pinch of salt

Variations

This recipe offers plenty of room for creativity! Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Add different flavors: Swap in different extracts like almond or maple to give your macarons a unique twist.
• Try different colors: Use various food coloring shades to match your seasonal themes—think pastels for spring or rich colors for fall.
• Change up the filling: Use chocolate ganache or fruit curd instead of pumpkin frosting for an entirely different taste experience.
• Experiment with toppings: Instead of just dusting with pumpkin pie spice, try using crushed nuts or sprinkles on top for added texture.

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 is crucial because it ensures that no residue interferes with whipping your egg whites properly. A clean bowl helps achieve those fluffy peaks we desire!

Step 2: Measure Ingredients

Prep and measure all ingredients using a kitchen scale. Accurate measurements are key in macaron-making; even a slight variation can affect texture and form.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Combine your almond meal and powdered sugar in a bowl. Sift it once to remove lumps—this creates a smoother batter later on. Then mix well to break up any clumps.

Step 4: Create the Macaron Base

Make a well in your dry mixture and pour in 41 grams of egg whites. Gently fold until blended before adding your desired food coloring. It should resemble a thick paste when fully mixed!

Step 5: Prepare Sugar Syrup

Heat granulated sugar and water in a pot on medium heat while monitoring with a candy thermometer. Be cautious—ensure it doesn’t touch the bottom! Once it reaches about 200°F, start whisking your other egg whites until soft peaks form.

Step 6: Combine Egg Whites and Sugar Syrup

As soon as your syrup hits 248°F, remove it from heat. Quickly pour it into the soft-peak egg whites while mixing on medium speed until it reaches glossy medium peaks. This meringue is what gives macarons their signature texture!

Step 7: Fold Meringue into Dry Mix

Gently transfer one-third of this meringue into your dry mix, folding carefully until fully incorporated before adding more meringue. Repeat until everything is combined into smooth batter.

Step 8: Pipe Your Shells

Transfer this batter into your prepared piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe rounds onto lined baking sheets about an inch apart—remember to hold the bag steady!

Step 9: Rest Your Shells

Let them rest for about 20-30 minutes until they form a skin—dry to touch but not sticky when pressed gently with your finger.

Step 10: Bake!

Preheat your oven to 300°F, then bake those beauties for about 12-14 minutes on the middle rack. You’ll see those lovely feet forming halfway through baking!

Now that you’ve got all these steps laid out, get ready to enjoy some delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Making macarons can be a delightful experience; here are some tips to ensure your Pumpkin Pie Macarons turn out perfectly every time!

• Use a kitchen scale: Accurate measurements are crucial in macaron making. A kitchen scale ensures you have the exact amount of each ingredient, which results in the perfect texture and consistency.

• Resting is key: Allow your piped macarons to rest until they form a skin before baking. This helps them develop the characteristic feet and prevents them from cracking during baking.

• Watch your oven temperature: Every oven is different! Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is accurate, as this can greatly affect the outcome of your macarons.

• Experiment with colors: While traditional pumpkin pie colors are orange and brown, feel free to get creative with food coloring! This not only adds visual appeal but also personalizes your macarons for any occasion.

• Practice patience with macaronage: The folding technique is essential. Be gentle but firm when incorporating the meringue into the almond mixture; over-mixing can lead to flat shells, while under-mixing may result in rough tops.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Presenting your Pumpkin Pie Macarons can turn an already impressive dessert into a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top of the vanilla frosting can enhance flavor and add an elegant touch.
• Miniature pie crust cutouts: Use leftover pie crust scraps to create cute shapes that can be placed on top of the macarons for added visual interest.

Side Dishes

• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai complement the flavors of pumpkin perfectly. Serve it alongside your macarons for a cozy pairing.
• Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage adds a festive touch and pairs well with the sweet and spiced nature of the macarons.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the macarons, making for a delicious dessert duo.
• Pumpkin Soup: For something savory, a creamy pumpkin soup offers a beautiful seasonal contrast that balances out the sweetness of the macarons.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll ensure that your Pumpkin Pie Macarons are not only delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy this festive treat with friends and family during any gathering or holiday celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are perfect for meal prep and can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat whenever the craving strikes!

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.

Freezing

• Place macarons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If desired, let frozen macarons thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• For a fresher taste, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes prior to enjoying.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you when making your Pumpkin Pie Macarons!

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

Yes! You can substitute vegan butter with regular butter if you prefer. Both will yield delicious results.

How do I get the best texture for my Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

To achieve the perfect texture, ensure that your egg whites are whipped to glossy peaks and avoid over-mixing during the macaronage process.

Can Pumpkin Pie Macarons be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can make these macarons ahead of time and store them as instructed for later enjoyment.

What flavors can I combine with Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

Feel free to experiment by adding different spices like nutmeg or even organic chocolate ganache for unique flavor combinations.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy into your kitchen! These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are not only visually stunning but also bursting with delightful fall flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy making them as part of your holiday celebrations or just as a sweet treat any day of the year. Happy baking!