Mastering Spiced Apple & Pecan French Macarons: Your Ultimate Fall Baking Guide

Step into the enchanting world of fall baking with these exquisite Spiced Apple and Pecan French Macarons. Each delicate bite encapsulates the comforting essence of autumn, offering a taste experience reminiscent of your favorite apple pie, but in a uniquely elegant and sweet package. This comprehensive guide, complete with a full French Macaron video masterclass, is designed to empower you to successfully craft these seasonal delights in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or embarking on your first macaron adventure, prepare to be charmed by the rich flavors and satisfying textures of this truly special dessert.

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The crisp air, the vibrant hues of changing leaves, and the irresistible aroma of baking spices truly define the fall season. For me, it all begins with the annual apple-picking tradition. Just last week, my son, his classmates, and I embarked on a delightful excursion to a local orchard, returning home with bags brimming with crisp, juicy apples. While we’ve certainly been enjoying our fresh harvest, I made sure to set aside a generous portion specifically for creating an array of apple-based desserts and savory dishes.

My culinary to-do list for the season is already extensive, featuring classics like a rustic apple frangipane tart, a moist tatin cake, a comforting dairy-free apple crumble, and homemade applesauce. I’ve even explored more adventurous paths with fabulous miso squash soup with Brussels sprouts and a warming curried cauliflower and apple soup. Yet, amidst all these wonderful ideas, I had been searching for something truly unique, a fall-inspired macaron recipe that would capture the essence of the season in a delicate, sophisticated bite. And then it clicked: what could be more perfect than a French macaron celebrating the very heart of apple season?

Behold these utterly stunning Spiced Apple and Pecan French Macarons! Do they not evoke the delightful experience of savoring a slice of your most beloved apple pie, compressed into a single, irresistible bite? These macarons are a symphony of autumnal flavors and textures, meticulously crafted for the ultimate seasonal indulgence. The macaron shells themselves are a masterpiece, infused with finely ground pecans and a harmonious blend of quintessential fall spices: warm cinnamon, fragrant allspice, and a hint of zesty ginger. This aromatic combination creates a robust, earthy base that perfectly complements the luscious filling.

The heart of these macarons lies in their truly irresistible caramelized apple buttercream. This filling isn’t just sweet; it’s rich with diced apples that have been slow-caramelized to perfection in a luxurious bath of butter and cane sugar. This process coaxes out their natural sweetness and transforms them into tender, golden gems. To further elevate the flavor and provide an exciting textural contrast, I’ve incorporated a clever surprise element: a portion of those exquisite caramelized apples is reserved and delicately tucked into the buttercream nests, ensuring an extra burst of fruity goodness with every bite. The result is a multi-layered sensory experience – crisp shell, smooth buttercream, and soft, intensely flavored apple pieces – making these spiced apple and pecan French macarons an unforgettable treat.

The flavor profile of these Spiced Apple and Pecan French Macarons is profoundly intense and deeply comforting. While French macarons might not typically be the first dessert that comes to mind when you think of comfort food, I assure you that these will undoubtedly change your perception. A plate of these delicate pastries, served alongside a steaming cup of your favorite tea, will create a moment of pure warmth and coziness, warming you from the inside out. They offer a delightful and sophisticated departure from traditional fall-inspired desserts, presenting a gourmet twist on familiar flavors. Furthermore, elegantly presented in a charming box, these spiced apple and pecan macarons transform into the perfect hostess gift, guaranteed to impress and delight anyone who receives them. They are a true testament to the beauty and versatility of fall baking.

FIRST TIME MAKING FRENCH MACARONS? YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE

French macarons have a reputation for being finicky, and it’s true that they demand precision and patience. However, don’t let that deter you! With the right guidance and a little dedication, anyone can master the art of making these exquisite treats. If this is your very first time venturing into the world of macaron making, my strongest advice is to prepare thoroughly: read through the recipe, familiarize yourself with the steps, and most importantly, watch the accompanying video resources *before* you even crack an egg. Setting aside ample time, free from distractions, will make all the difference in achieving perfect spiced apple and pecan French macarons.

I’ve developed a comprehensive suite of resources specifically designed to support you through every stage of the macaron-making process:

• A detailed step-by-step tutorial with vivid photos that visually guides you through each critical step, ensuring you understand exactly what to look for at every turn. From preparing your ingredients to piping your shells, every nuance is covered.
• A thorough macaron troubleshooting guide that acts as your personal detective, helping you identify and understand common mishaps. Should your shells crack, lack feet, or spread too thin, this guide will provide solutions and explain the underlying causes, empowering you to adjust and improve with each batch.
• And perhaps the most invaluable resource: a 30-minute French Macaron Video Masterclass. I cannot emphasize enough how highly I recommend watching this before you attempt your first batch of macarons. There’s simply no substitute for seeing the techniques performed live. This visual learning approach is precisely how I mastered macarons over a decade ago, and it has since helped thousands of my students achieve consistent success. Observing the proper consistency of the batter, the correct piping technique, and other subtle yet crucial details will give you an unparalleled advantage.

NEW: French Macaron Video Masterclass – Your Secret to Perfect Macarons!

Unlock the secrets to crafting flawless French macarons right in your own kitchen with my acclaimed detailed video masterclass. What’s even better? This complete masterclass is now available to everyone for FREE and unlimited watching! Previously, this highly-rated course was hosted behind a paywall on an educational platform where THOUSANDS of students enthusiastically rated it 5 STARS. Driven by my passion for sharing the joy of macaron baking, I’ve made it accessible to all macaron lovers worldwide, absolutely free of charge ❤️

My comprehensive French Macaron Video Masterclass is expertly divided into 14 easy-to-follow lessons, meticulously designed to transform you into a macaron expert in no time. I crafted this masterclass with both novice bakers and experienced enthusiasts in mind. If you’re new to baking and eager to acquire impressive new skills, or an accomplished baker seeking to conquer the challenge of a truly impressive and delicate dessert, this masterclass is tailored for you. Through engaging demonstrations and clear explanations, I will personally guide you through every critical aspect: from selecting the essential equipment you need for macaron success to understanding the important steps to follow precisely. We’ll delve into the techniques to master, such as achieving the perfect meringue and the elusive macaronage, and crucially, illuminate the potential pitfalls to avoid that often trip up beginners. The beauty of this video format is its flexibility: you can watch the videos at your own pace, pause and rewind as often as needed, start practicing immediately, share your journey with other budding macaron makers, and even ask me questions if you encounter any difficulties along the way. My goal is to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to bake perfect, beautiful, and delicious Spiced Apple and Pecan French Macarons every single time.

I am genuinely confident that this video class will provide you with all the tools and insights necessary to create exquisite French macarons consistently. Your journey to macaron mastery begins here. Watch the class now and start baking!

If you find my French Macaron Masterclass helpful and enjoyable, please consider giving it a “like” on YouTube. Your support helps other aspiring macaron bakers discover this valuable free resource. Thank you for your kindness, and I wish you immensely happy baking as you create your own batches of Spiced Apple and Pecan French Macarons!

Having armed yourself with comprehensive knowledge and a clear understanding of the macaron-making process, you’re now ready to bring these incredible Spiced Apple and Pecan French Macarons to life. This recipe has been meticulously tested and refined to ensure the best possible results, guiding you through each component – from the spiced pecan shells to the rich caramelized apple buttercream and the delightful surprise filling. Remember, patience is your greatest ally in macaron baking. Take your time, enjoy the process, and soon you’ll be rewarded with a batch of perfectly formed, intensely flavored, and utterly comforting fall macarons. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

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Spiced Apple & Pecan French Macarons

Indulge in the ultimate taste of autumn with these Spiced Apple & Pecan French Macarons. They perfectly capture the comforting, spiced flavors of classic apple pie in a delicate, elegant macaron shell, filled with luscious caramelized apple buttercream and a delightful surprise of diced apples. A perfect treat for fall baking!

Prep Time:1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Cook Time:30 minutes mins

Servings 28 assembled macarons

Author Marie Asselin

Ingredients

US Customary / Metric

For the caramelized apples

• 57 g unsalted butter
• 50 g granulated sugar
• 454 g apples (about 3 large), cored and cut into small dice (a crunchy variety, such as Cortland)
• 60 ml heavy cream (35% m.f.)

For the caramelized apple buttercream

• 227 g unsalted butter, room temperature
• 240 g powdered sugar, sifted
• Pinch kosher salt

For the spiced pecan macaron shells

• 3 large egg whites, separated two days in advance, stored in an open container in the fridge (about 3.5 oz/100 g)
• 210 g powdered sugar
• 62 g almond flour
• 62 g unsalted pecans halves or pieces
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• 30 g granulated sugar
• Red gel food coloring

Instructions

• For the caramelized apples: In a medium skillet set over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the sugar. Add the apples, and sauté until soft and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
• Scoop ½ cup (125 ml) of the caramelized apples into the container of a blender. Add the heavy cream and blend to make a very smooth puree (you can also use a stick blender to do this.) Cool the puree completely.
• For the buttercream: Place the butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer, and beat for a minute to soften. Add half the powdered sugar and beat on low speed to moisten the sugar, then increase the speed to incorporate fully. Add ¼ cup (60 ml) of the cooled caramelized apple puree, and beat to incorporate fully. Add the remaining powdered sugar, and beat on medium speed until the buttercream is smooth and fluffy.

  Transfer to a pastry bag fitted with a round tip and set aside until ready to assemble the macarons. (The buttercream can be made ahead; refrigerate, but make sure to return to room temperature at least an hour before using.)

• For the pecan macaron shells:

  *Return the egg whites to room temperature at least an hour before making the macarons shells.*

  In the bowl of a food processor, add the powdered sugar, almond flour, and pecans, and process until the mixture is thoroughly incorporated, 30 seconds to a minute. Sift the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to make sure no lumps or bigger bits of nuts are left.

• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, or in a large stainless steel mixing bowl if using a hand mixer, whisk the egg whites on medium/high speed until frothy. Add a tablespoon of the granulated sugar, continue whisking at medium-low speed, then add the remaining sugar slowly. Increase the speed medium-high and whisk until the egg whites are bright white and create stiff peaks. At low speed, mix in a few drops of red gel food coloring, to your liking.
• Add the almond and powdered sugar mixture to the egg whites and, using a spatula, gently fold in the dry ingredients: slide your spatula all the way to the bottom of the bowl and comes back up to the top. Do this about 6 times to incorporate the dry ingredients, then keep folding for a total of about 14 times until no pockets of dry ingredients remain and the mixture drops from the side of the spatula in a slow, lazy ribbon. Start testing early to make sure not to overfold.
• Stack two baking sheets and line the top sheet with parchment paper. If you’re not using parchment paper sheets, cut out the parchment paper so it fits exactly over the bottom of the sheet to make sure the macarons will lay flat. Slide macaron templates under the parchment paper, if using.
• Transfer the macaron batter in a pastry bag fitted with a ½-inch (1.25-cm) round tip. Pipe 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) rounds of batter, evenly spaced but still close to one another as they will not expand much.
• Carefully slide the macaron templates off the baking sheets, if you used them. Let the shells rest on the baking sheets for 20 to 30 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C) with a rack set to the middle position. Bake each sheet of macaron shells for 13 to 16 minutes, or until the shells are firm on their feet when you lightly tap on them with the tip of a finger.
• Let the shells cool completely to room temperature before assembling them, about an hour.
• To assemble the pecan macarons: Pair same sized shells together and set side by side on a work surface. Pipe some buttercream over half of the shells, following the circumference of each shell to create a circle of buttercream. Fill each circle with a small quantity of the saved diced caramelized apples. Close the pecan macarons, gently pressing the second shells over the filling.
• STORAGE: Store the assembled Apple and Pecan French Macarons in an airtight container and refrigerate overnight before indulging. French macarons will keep, refrigerated, for up to 3 days. You can also freeze assembled macarons in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
• SERVING: Always bring these Apple and Pecan French Macarons back to room temperature before serving.

NOTES

• This recipe makes about twice the amount of frosting you need to fill the macarons. Use the remaining frosting to garnish a cake or cupcakes, or freeze it in an airtight container until you make a new batch of macaron shells. Simply defrost to room temperature and whisk vigorously to soften before using.
• You will also have some of caramelized apple puree leftover (a tasty bonus!) Use this delicious treat like you would apple butter: spread over pancakes, croissants, or sliced baguette.

Did you make this?

Tell me how you liked it! Leave a comment or take a picture and tag it with @foodnouveau on Instagram.

Once your Spiced Apple and Pecan French Macarons are assembled, the anticipation builds! To allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the shells to achieve their signature tender-chewy texture, it’s crucial to store them properly. Always place your assembled macarons in an airtight container and refrigerate them overnight. This “maturation” period is key to their exquisite taste and texture. They will remain fresh and delightful, refrigerated, for up to 3 days. For longer enjoyment, these macarons also freeze exceptionally well; simply place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to serve these autumnal delights, remember to bring them back to room temperature to fully appreciate their intricate flavors and perfect consistency. Enjoy every comforting bite of your homemade Spiced Apple and Pecan French Macarons!

A note on leftovers and bonuses: This recipe is designed to provide you with a generous amount of delicious caramelized apple buttercream – approximately twice what you’ll need to fill your batch of macarons. Don’t let this go to waste! The extra buttercream is incredibly versatile. It makes a fantastic frosting for a beautiful layered apple cake, a batch of cupcakes, or even as a spread for breakfast pastries. You can also easily freeze the leftover buttercream in an airtight container for future use; just defrost it to room temperature and whisk vigorously to restore its fluffy texture before piping. Similarly, you’ll likely have some of that delightful caramelized apple puree remaining after preparing the buttercream. Consider this a tasty bonus! This rich, fruity puree can be enjoyed like apple butter: spread generously over warm pancakes, flaky croissants, or toasted slices of baguette for a truly indulgent treat. No part of these incredible fall flavors needs to go unappreciated!

I genuinely hope you enjoyed this detailed journey into creating these Spiced Apple and Pecan French Macarons. May your kitchen be filled with the wonderful aromas of fall baking, and your table with these beautiful, delicious treats!

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