As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, I’m always drawn to the warm, comforting scents of fall, and nothing captures that essence better than these Caramel Apple Pie Macarons. Imagine delicate almond shells, crisp on the outside and soft within, embracing a rich filling of salted caramel buttercream and spiced apple pie mixture. Each bite is a sweet reminder of cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations.
I first tried my hand at making these delightful treats when I was searching for a way to impress friends at a seasonal get-together. The combination of flavors is not only a nod to classic autumn desserts but also transforms them into elegant little bites that are perfect for sharing—or sneaking one for yourself!
These macarons are surprisingly manageable to whip up, bringing an impressive touch to your dessert table without needing a culinary degree. If you’re ready to embark on a flavorful journey that embraces the heart of fall, grab your apron and let’s create something truly special!
Why Love Caramel Apple Pie Macarons?
Deliciously Unique: These macarons blend the flavors of classic apple pie with a modern twist, capturing the essence of fall in each bite.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Made with almond flour, these treats are naturally gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
Impressive Yet Simple: You don’t need to be a pro baker to master this recipe; the steps are easy to follow and rewarding!
Perfect for Sharing: Their elegant look and comforting flavor make them ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy get-togethers.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance and watch as the flavors develop, creating an even more delightful experience!
Caramel Apple Pie Macaron Ingredients
• To make your baking journey smooth and delicious, here’s everything you need!
For the Macaron Shells
- Egg Whites – Provide structure to the macaron shell; age them for better results by refrigerating covered for 24-72 hours.
- Almond Flour – Gives the macarons their unique texture and flavor; use finely ground for optimal results.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter and stabilizes the meringue for that perfect rise.
- Powdered Sugar – Finely sweetens and ensures a smooth macaron shell; remember to sift to prevent lumps.
For the Filling
- Salted Caramel – A rich and decadent filling; can be homemade or store-bought, adjusting for personal preference.
- Cinnamon – Adds warm spice to the apple filling, enhancing the autumnal flavor experience.
- Unsalted Butter – Acts as the base for the creamy caramel buttercream; make sure it’s at room temperature for effortless mixing.
For the Apple Pie Filling
- Apples – The star ingredient for the filling; choose tart varieties for a balanced flavor with the caramel.
- Additional Butter – Used for sautéing apples which adds a lovely richness to the filling.
These Caramel Apple Pie Macarons are not just a dessert; they’re a slice of fall captured in a delightful treat!
How to Make Caramel Apple Pie Macarons
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Prepare the Apple Pie Filling: Peel and dice the apples, then sauté them with butter and cinnamon over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes. The apples should soften and become fragrant; add caramel at the end and thicken. Allow it to cool completely.
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Make the Macaron Shells:
- Sift Together: Combine the almond flour and powdered sugar in a bowl, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Whisk Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add cream of tartar and granulated sugar while whipping until you reach soft peaks, then continue to stiff peaks.
- Fold Gently: Carefully fold in the dry ingredients until the batter reaches a “flowing lava” consistency, which should flow off the spatula smoothly.
- Piping & Baking:
- Pipe the Shells: Using a piping bag, create 1-inch rounds on a prepared baking sheet. Tap the sheet gently to release any air bubbles.
- Form a Skin: Allow the piped rounds to sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes until a skin forms on the surface. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 300°F.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 13-15 minutes. They should not move on their “feet” when lightly touched.
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Assemble Macarons: Once cool, pair the shells together, pipe a ring of caramel buttercream around the edge, fill the center with your apple pie filling, and place the top shell gently on.
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Maturation: Store the assembled macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for 12-24 hours. This waiting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
Optional: Dust with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Caramel Apple Pie Macarons
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Proper Equipment: Ensure all equipment is free from grease, as any residue can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. A little lemon juice on your utensils can help!
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Aging Egg Whites: Refrigerating egg whites for 24-72 hours improves stability and results in a better rise; this step is crucial for perfect macaron shells.
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Consistent Mixing: Avoid over-mixing the batter after folding in the dry ingredients; stop as soon as it reaches a “flowing lava” consistency to prevent flat macarons.
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Oven Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to check the temperature; macarons require precise baking conditions to rise correctly and retain their signature feet.
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Cooling Time: Allow the piped macaron shells to sit until they form a skin; this helps them rise properly and develop a crisp outer shell.
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Flavor Development: For the best tasting Caramel Apple Pie Macarons, let them mature in the fridge for 12-24 hours before serving; the flavors blend beautifully over time.
Storage Tips for Caramel Apple Pie Macarons
Room Temperature: Enjoy your macarons fresh for up to 1 day if stored at room temperature, but keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture.
Fridge: Store assembled Caramel Apple Pie Macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing them to warm to room temperature before indulging for the best flavor and texture.
Freezer: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the macaron shells separately for up to 1 month in an airtight container; let thaw at room temperature before filling.
Reheating: These macarons are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature—avoid heat to preserve their delightful texture and flavor.
Variations & Substitutions for Caramel Apple Pie Macarons
Customize these delightful treats to suit your tastes or dietary needs with these fun ideas!
- Fruit Swap: Replace apples with pears or peaches for a refreshing twist. Each option brings its own unique flavor perfect for experimenting.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed flour instead of almond flour to keep them nut-free, while still achieving a similar texture. They’ll be just as tasty!
- Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted chocolate drizzled over the macarons can elevate the flavor profile to new heights and add a delightful surprise.
- Spice Variations: Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warm spices that complement the apple pie filling beautifully.
- Caramel Variety: Try using different types of caramel—sea salt caramel, chocolate caramel, or even butterscotch—to change the flavor dynamic of your macarons.
- Maple Infusion: Substitute sugar in the macarons with maple syrup for a lovely autumn vibe; it pairs wonderfully with the apple and spice flavors.
- Colorful Shells: Add a few drops of food coloring to your batter to create visually stunning macarons that would be eye-catching on any dessert table.
- Mini Macarons: Scale down the size of your macarons for mini versions, making them perfect bite-sized treats for gatherings or snacking!
Embrace your creativity and enjoy the process of making these macarons uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Caramel Apple Pie Macarons?
Looking to elevate your dessert experience and create a charming fall-themed gathering? These delightful macarons pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm apple cider infused with cinnamon and cloves brings a comforting, aromatic touch that perfectly complements the flavors of the macarons, evoking cozy autumn vibes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the chewy macarons, enhancing their sweetness while offering a soothing creaminess that ties the flavors together.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of rich coffee or espresso balances the sweetness of the macarons with its bold flavors, making every bite even more indulgent while providing a delightful contrast of temperatures.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A light drizzle of extra caramel sauce over the macarons not only adds an elegant touch but intensifies the caramel flavor, enhancing the overall indulgence of the treat.
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Chai Tea: The warming spices of chai tea bring an earthy, spiced profile that harmonizes beautifully with the apple and caramel notes of the macarons, creating a perfect sipping experience with each bite.
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Chestnut or Pumpkin Pie: Serve a slice of traditional pumpkin or chestnut pie for a delightful dessert spread that embraces the essence of fall, creating a deliciously festive atmosphere for your gathering.
These pairings will transform your dessert table into an autumnal dreamscape, setting the stage for sweet memories shared with family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
These Caramel Apple Pie Macarons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the apple pie filling and macaron shells up to 3 days in advance. First, prepare the apple filling and let it cool completely before refrigerating it in an airtight container. For the macaron shells, bake them and store in a cool, dry place, layered with parchment paper for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the macarons by piping the buttercream and adding the filling. Just remember, letting them mature in the fridge for 12-24 hours after assembly will yield the best flavors, making them just as delicious as freshly made!
Caramel Apple Pie Macarons Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the filling?
For the filling in your Caramel Apple Pie Macarons, opt for tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These types not only provide that delightful balance of sweetness and acidity but also hold their shape when sautéed, creating a deliciously satisfying texture.
How should I store the macarons after baking?
Once assembled, store your Caramel Apple Pie Macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best to let them come to room temperature before indulging, as this enhances their flavor and texture, making them even more enjoyable!
Can I freeze Caramel Apple Pie Macarons?
Absolutely! You can freeze the macaron shells alone for up to 3 months. To do this, layer the shells between parchment paper in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let the shells thaw at room temperature, then fill them with your delicious buttercream and apple filling. This way, you’ll have a delightful treat ready at any time!
Why did my macarons crack during baking?
Cracking can happen for a few reasons—most commonly due to the oven temperature being too high or not allowing the macarons to form a skin before baking. Make sure to let the piped macarons sit for 30-40 minutes until they feel dry to the touch. Also, check your oven temperature with a thermometer for accuracy to ensure perfect results!
Can these macarons be made gluten-free?
Yes, the Caramel Apple Pie Macarons are naturally gluten-free, as they are made with almond flour instead of traditional wheat flour. It’s a wonderful option for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone at your gathering can enjoy a delightful treat!
Is there an alternative to salted caramel for the filling?
If you prefer, you can substitute salted caramel with homemade vanilla buttercream or chocolate ganache for a different spin on your macarons. Just adjust the flavors to match your intended taste, but both options remain delicious and satisfying.
Caramel Apple Pie Macarons That Taste Like Fall Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Apple Pie Filling: Peel and dice the apples, then sauté them with butter and cinnamon over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes. Add caramel at the end and thicken. Allow to cool completely.
- Make the Macaron Shells: In a bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar. In a clean bowl, whisk egg whites until foamy, gradually add granulated sugar while whipping until soft peaks, then to stiff peaks. Fold in dry ingredients until batter reaches 'flowing lava' consistency.
- Pipe the Shells: Create 1-inch rounds on a prepared baking sheet using a piping bag. Tap sheet gently to release air bubbles, then let sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes. Preheat oven to 300°F.
- Bake: Bake for 13-15 minutes until they do not move on their feet when lightly touched.
- Assemble Macarons: Pair shells, pipe a ring of caramel buttercream, fill with apple pie filling, and place top shell gently.
- Maturation: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 12-24 hours to allow flavors to meld.