Pumpkin Pie Macarons

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic dessert, you’ve come to the right place! These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are not just beautiful; they are also bursting with the warm flavors of fall. With a soft shell and creamy pumpkin spiced frosting, these little treats are perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or impressing friends at your next holiday get-together. They truly capture the essence of pumpkin pie in a fun and elegant way!

I absolutely love making these macarons during the autumn season. They remind me of crisp leaves and the smell of pumpkin spice wafting through the air. Plus, they’re a great way to showcase your baking skills without being overly complicated!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: Enjoy the delicious taste of pumpkin pie in a new form that everyone will adore.
• Impressive Presentation: Beautifully crafted macarons make for a stunning addition to any dessert table.
• Customizable Components: Mix and match frosting flavors or pie crust shapes to suit any occasion.
• Family Fun: Get everyone involved in decorating and filling these sweet treats.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the shells and fillings ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create these fabulous 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
• Granulated sugar and cinnamon for dusting (optional)

For the Pumpkin Pie 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
• 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 is flexible and can be adapted to suit your taste! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the Frosting: Change up your frosting flavors by using chocolate or caramel instead of pumpkin spice.
• Add Colorful Fillings: Incorporate colored food gels into your frostings for vibrant macaron designs.
• Change Up the Spice: Experiment with different spices like chai or apple pie spice for a unique flavor twist.
• Go Mini: Use smaller cookie cutters for bite-sized versions that are perfect for sharing.

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 as it removes any residue, ensuring those egg whites whip up beautifully into a stable meringue.

Step 2: Measure Your Ingredients

Using a kitchen scale, measure out all your ingredients. Precise measurements are key when making macarons, so take your time here—it’s worth it!

Step 3: Combine Almond Meal and Powdered Sugar

In a bowl, sift together almond meal and powdered sugar once to remove lumps. This process helps create smooth macaron shells by breaking up clumps before combining.

Step 4: Make Meringue Magic

Heat granulated sugar and water in a pot on medium heat while monitoring with a candy thermometer. Whisk egg whites until soft peaks form before adding stabilizer. Timing is everything here—watch those temperatures closely!

Step 5: Fold It All Together

Transfer your meringue into the dry almond mixture in thirds, folding gently until fully incorporated. The goal here is to achieve a smooth batter that flows like lava—perfect ribbons should form when lifted with a spatula.

Step 6: Pipe Your Shells

Fill your piping bag fitted with a round tip and pipe small rounds onto lined baking sheets. Remember to tap them gently afterward—this releases air bubbles that could disrupt their lovely feet!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven and let those piped shells rest until they form a skin—about 20-30 minutes. Once ready, bake until they rise and develop their delightful feet.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let your baked macarons cool before gently removing them from parchment paper. Patience is key here; allow them to cool completely so they retain their shape.

Step 9: Create Delicious Fillings

While waiting, prepare both frostings! Beat shortening with confectioners’ sugar along with other ingredients until smooth. Transfer each filling into separate piping bags for easy assembly later on.

Step 10: Assemble Your Macarons

Match up macaron shells by size, fill one shell with pumpkin frosting topped with a pie crust cutout, and sandwich it with another shell. Finish off with vanilla frosting on top to mimic whipped cream!

Enjoy every bite of these Pumpkin Pie Macarons! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering, sparking joy and comfort during this lovely season.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Macarons

Creating perfect macarons can be a bit tricky, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to making delightful Pumpkin Pie Macarons that will impress everyone!

• Use a kitchen scale: Accurate measurements are crucial for macarons. Using a scale ensures that you get the right texture and consistency, leading to successful macarons every time.
• Sift your dry ingredients: Sifting almond meal and powdered sugar helps to eliminate lumps, giving you a smoother macaron batter. This contributes to the signature shiny and smooth surface we all love.
• Monitor oven temperature: Each oven is different, so it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature. If your macarons are browning too quickly or not rising properly, consider adjusting the temperature slightly for optimal results.
• Let them rest: Allowing the piped macarons to rest until they form a skin on the surface is key. This step helps them develop their iconic feet and prevents cracking during baking.
• Practice makes perfect: Don’t get discouraged if your first batch doesn’t turn out as expected! Keep practicing, and you’ll soon master the art of making macarons with confidence.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Macarons

These charming Pumpkin Pie Macarons are not only delicious but also visually striking, making them perfect for any gathering. Present them on a decorative platter or cake stand for an elegant touch at your next event!

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of the vanilla frosting adds a pop of color and enhances the pumpkin flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling some dairy-free caramel sauce over the assembled macarons can add a touch of sweetness and sophistication.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider: This warm beverage complements the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie, creating a comforting pairing that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
• Roasted butternut squash soup: The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of this soup balance beautifully with the rich flavors of pumpkin in your macarons.
• Autumn salad: A fresh salad mixed with seasonal greens, cranberries, and toasted pecans provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the macarons while adding color to your table.

With these serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Pie Macarons will shine as both a delightful treat and an appealing centerpiece at any dessert table! Enjoy creating these seasonal delights!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert whenever the craving strikes! With proper storage, you can keep these treats fresh and delightful for days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing

• Place 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 stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy thawed macarons, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Do not microwave, as this can affect their texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Pumpkin Pie Macarons:

Can I use egg substitutes for the Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

Yes, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan alternative to egg whites. Use approximately 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white.

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

Achieving the perfect macaron shell requires practice! Make sure you whip your meringue until glossy peaks form and let your piped shells rest until they feel dry before baking. This helps develop the iconic “feet.”

What flavors pair well with Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

Pumpkin Pie Macarons pair wonderfully with flavors like caramel, pecan, and even chocolate ganache. Feel free to experiment!

Can I use different food colorings for my Pumpkin Pie Macarons?

Absolutely! You can use any gel or powdered food coloring that matches your theme or preference. Just remember to mix it well into the batter.

How do I prevent my Pumpkin Pie Macarons from cracking?

Ensure you properly fold the batter during the macaronage process; over-mixing or under-mixing can lead to cracks. Also, be careful not to skip the resting step before baking!

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Pie Macarons are truly a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite! Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them special enough for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging on your own. Happy baking!