Okay, so picture this: It’s a crisp autumn day, the air smells like cinnamon and baking apples, and you’re craving pumpkin pie. What are the right notes of comfort and sweetness? What is Apple Pie? What if you could elevate that classic flavor into something utterly unexpected and, dare I say, unexpected? What makes you feel more delightful? What are Apple Pie macarons? Is it like a tiny, elegant apple pie in every bite? What are some good cinnamon glazes? What are some addictive little guys? I always feel such a sense of accomplishment pulling out of the oven. What are some of the best Apple Pie macarons? What is the flavor profile
What is Apple Pie Macarons?
Think of it as a French macaron, but with sprinkling of American spices. Is it a meringue cookie made from almond flour, sugar, and egg whites? Artfully colored and filled to mimic the flavors of a classic Apple Pie. So you get the delicate crunch of the macaron shell, followed by a burst of spiced apple goodness. From the filling, and a final touch of cinnamon glaze that tie it all together. The name says it all! Is this a sophisticated take on comforting comfort food? Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What’s not to love? What are some of the reasons why this recipe will become your new go-to recipe?
Flavor Explosion:The combination of almond, apple, cinnamon, and spices is simply divine. The shell of the spiced apple filling is nutty and sweet. What I love about the filling is the contrast of the tangy apples with the warm spices – it’s a must try. What is it like to bite into a homemade Apple Pie?
SurprisinglyDon’t let the name “macaron” intimidate you! While they do require a bit of patience and precision, this recipe is totally achievable for the beginner. What are some of the best tips and tricks for success? Is it really that easy to make dough?
Cost-Effective Indulgence: While macarons might seem fancy, the ingredients are actually quite affordable. You probably have many of them in your pantry already! Plus, you get a decent amount of cookies from a single batch, making them perfect for sharing (or not!). I’ve definitely caught my kids sneaking these from the fridge. Can’t blame them!
Versatile Delight These Apple Pie Macarons are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to holiday gatherings. They also make a wonderful homemade gift. Package them in a pretty box or tin, and you’re sure to impress. They’re perfect alongside a cup of Earl Grey or a sweet dessert wine. This recipe is also amazing for any kind of celebration where you want to add a twist! They also feel special just eating one with your morning coffee. What a treat!
How do I make Apple Pie macarons?
Quick Overview
The process starts with whipping up those beautiful almond-based macaron shells, coloring them a warm apple-pie hue, and letting them rest so that signature “foot” forms in the oven. Then you’ll simmer a delightful spiced apple filling, and finally, whip up a simple cinnamon glaze. Sandwich it all together, and boom: Apple Pie Macaron magic! It sounds like a lot, but trust me, it’s all about following the steps and enjoying the process.
Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells:
- 100g almond flour: Make sure it’s super finely ground for the smoothest shells. I like to sift mine to remove any clumps.
- 100g powdered sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that delicate texture.
- 50g Egg Whites: What are How do I achieve perfect peaks?
- 50g Granulated Sugar: For the meringue.
- Apple Pie Gel Food Coloring: To achieve that perfect apple pie hue.
What is the recipe for Apple Pie Filling?
- 2 Medium Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for that tart-sweet balance. Peeled, cored, and diced.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and flavor.
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar: For that caramelized apple pie flavor.
- What is an apple pie without cinnamon?
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg: Adds a warm, cozy touch.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and prevents apples from browning.
For the Cinnamon Glaze:
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar: For the base of the glaze.
- 2-3 tbsp milk: Add gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
- To infuse the glaze with that classic Apple Pie spice. 1/2 tsp Cinnamon.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This is crucial to prevent sticking! Make sure your oven is actually at 300 degrees, I always use an oven thermometer, even with a new oven.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar. Set aside. The mixture is super fine. The lumps are very small. If you have pets, set aside, and try not to let them near it at this time!
Step 3: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. This is your meringue! It should be firm enough to hold its shape but not dry. It’s a delicate balance.
Step 4: Macaronage
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue in two additions. This is the most important step! How do you achieve a smooth, lava-like consistency? The batter should flow slowly off your spatula, forming a ribbon that disappears back into the bowl. Is it possible to beat a batter within 20 What is macaronage? Don’t overmix, or your mac will be flat and sad. But also don’t undermix, or they’ll be lumpy. It’s a delicate dance.
Step 5: Pipe and Rest
Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe 1.5-inch circles onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Tap the baking sheet firmly on the counter several times to release any air bubbles. Let the macarons rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, or until a skin forms on the surface. This is crucial for that signature “foot”! Seriously, don’t skip this step.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the “feet” have formed and the shells are set. Let the macarons cool completely on the baking sheet before removing them.
Step 7: Make the Filling
While the macarons are cooling, prepare the apple pie filling. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, Brown Sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice to a large bowl. Mix well. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and the sauce has thickened. Serve warm or cold. Let cool completely.
Step 8: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon. Set aside. How thick is the glaze on a spoon? If it’s too thick, add a little more powdered sugar. If you’re too thin, just add more milk.
Step 9: Assemble
Once the macarons and filling are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Pipe or spoon a small amount of Apple Pie filling onto the flat side of one macaron shell. Top with another macaron shell. Drizzle with cinnamon glaze. Repeat with the remaining macarons and filling. Let the assembled macarons mature in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the shells to soften slightly. This step is HARD for me, because I always want to eat them immediately! But trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 10: Enjoy!
Remove from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
What to Serve It With
These Apple Pie Macarons are amazing on their own, but here are a few ideas to take them to the next level:
For Breakfast: Pair them with a strong cup of coffee or a creamy latte. The sweetness of the macaron is a perfect counterpoint to the bitterness of the coffee. Plus, it’s a more elevated morning treat.
For Brunch: Serve them alongside a fruit platter and a selection of teas. They add a touch of elegance to any brunch spread. Add a bit of edible gold dust to each for extra fanciness!
As Dessert: Offer them as part of a dessert buffet with other sweet treats like chocolate truffles and mini cheesecakes. They’re a perfect portion size for sampling.
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy them with a glass of warm milk or hot chocolate on a chilly evening. Nothing beats the combo of a warm drink and a sweet treat when you’re curled up on the couch.
My family loves when I make these for our annual autumn picnic. We pack a basket with these macarons, some apple cider, and a cozy blanket, and head to the park to enjoy the changing leaves. It’s a tradition that we all look forward to every year. I’ve found that if I pack them in a glass tupperware, they hold up best.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Apple Pie Macarons
Here are some of my tried-and-true tips for achieving macaron perfection:
Almond Flour is Key: Use the finest ground almond flour you can find. Sifting it helps remove any larger particles that can cause lumpy shells.
Aged Egg Whites: Aging your egg whites for at least 24 hours at room temperature helps them whip up to a more stable meringue.
The Macaronage is Everything: Mastering the macaronage (the folding process) is crucial for achieving the right batter consistency. Watch plenty of videos and practice makes perfect!
Resting is Essential: Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the macarons rest at room temperature allows a skin to form, which is what creates that signature “foot.”
Oven Temperature is Critical: Macarons are sensitive to oven temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurate. You might need to adjust the temperature slightly depending on your oven.
Cool Completely: Let the macarons cool completely before removing them from the baking sheet. They’re fragile when warm and can easily break. You can even pop them in the freezer for 10 minutes to release them. This is a trick I learned from watching the Great British Baking Show.
Fill and Mature: Fill the macarons and let them mature in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the shells to soften slightly.
I’ve experimented with different food colorings, and I’ve found that gel food coloring works best because it doesn’t add excess liquid to the batter. I’ve also tried different apple varieties in the filling, and while Granny Smith is my favorite, Honeycrisp and Fuji also work well. I sometimes add a pinch of cardamom to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to keep your Apple Pie Macarons fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: Macarons can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, they’re best stored in the refrigerator, especially if the filling contains dairy.
Refrigerator Storage: Store macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture. I like to put a piece of parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking.
Freezer Instructions: Macarons can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving. It is best to freeze before filling. But they can also be frozen after filling too.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the macarons for more than a day, it’s best to glaze them just before serving. This prevents the glaze from becoming sticky or dissolving.
I’ve found that macarons actually taste better the day after they’re made, as the flavors have had time to meld together. I always make a batch a day ahead of when I need them. I’ve also experimented with freezing macarons, and they hold up surprisingly well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my recipe for Apple Pie Macarons! I know they might seem a little intimidating at first, but trust me, they’re worth the effort. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and they’re sure to impress anyone who tries them. What I love the most is that they are such a great conversation starter. If you’re an apple pie lover, I highly recommend giving this recipe a try! And if you’re looking for more macaron adventures, be sure to check out my other recipes for chocolate macarons and salted caramel macarons. Happy baking!
Apple Pie Macarons
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large egg whites room temperature
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
- 1 cup apple butter
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine almond flour and powdered sugar. Pulse until finely ground.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg whites until just combined. Add apple pie spice and fold again.
- Pipe macaron batter onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each macaron.
- Let the macarons sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, or until a skin forms on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the macarons are set.
- Let the macarons cool completely before filling.
- Pipe apple butter onto the bottom of half of the macarons and top with the remaining macarons.
