Caramel Apple Macarons: 5 Sweet Fall Delights

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Caramel Apple Macarons are the ultimate autumn treat that perfectly blends the delicate texture of almond meringue shells with the rich flavors of apple and caramel. These exquisite cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a touch of sophistication to any gathering. With their visually appealing colors and delightful taste, they represent the essence of fall indulgence. Let’s dive into the world of these sweet caramel apple confections!

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Macarons

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Caramel Apple Macarons. First, they offer a unique flavor combination that merges the classic taste of caramel and apple into a single dessert. Whether you are hosting a fall gathering or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are ideal. They’re not only visually stunning but also a caramel apple dessert that impresses your guests. Plus, they can be adjusted to suit various dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options. With each bite, you experience the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a favorite for any occasion. Serve them alongside a hot drink for the ultimate autumn experience!

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Macarons

Gather these items:

150 g almond flour (1 ½ cups)
150 g powdered sugar (1 ¼ cups)
4 g freeze-dried apple (4-5 tsp), finely ground
110 g egg whites, divided
A few drops green food coloring
Pinch of salt
150 g granulated sugar (¾ cup)
2 ½ tablespoons water (38 ml)
150 g apple (5 oz), diced
30 g sugar (2 tbsp)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
4 g freeze-dried apple (4-5 tsp), finely ground
80 g whipping cream (⅓ cup)
230 g white chocolate (8 oz), chips or finely chopped bar
A few drops green food coloring
11 oz caramels
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1 teaspoon kosher salt

How to Make Caramel Apple Macarons Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine diced apples, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until the apples are softened. Puree the mixture with an immersion blender or food processor until smooth, then blend in the freeze-dried apple powder to enhance the apple flavor.
Step 2: Place the apple puree, whipping cream, and white chocolate into a heatproof bowl. Melt together over a bain-marie (double boiler), stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and velvety. Add a few drops of green food coloring to achieve a subtle pastel shade. Refrigerate until the ganache is firm enough to pipe.
Step 3: Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. In a food processor, combine powdered sugar, almond flour, and freeze-dried apple powder. Pulse until well mixed, then sift the mixture into a large bowl to ensure uniform texture.
Step 4: In a small bowl, beat 55 g of egg whites with a few drops of green food coloring until lightly frothy. Gently fold this into the dry almond flour mixture to create a thick batter base.
Step 5: In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water and heat to 230°F (110°C) using a candy thermometer. Meanwhile, whisk the remaining 55 g egg whites to soft peaks. Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the egg whites while continuing to whisk until stiff, glossy peaks form. Fold this meringue gently into the almond mixture with a spatula until the batter flows in thick ribbons, passing the figure-8 test.
Step 6: Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe 1-inch diameter circles onto the prepared baking sheets. Tap the sheets firmly against the counter to release air bubbles and flatten the shells. Allow the shells to dry at room temperature for 30-40 minutes until a skin forms on top.
Step 7: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake the macarons for 20-24 minutes, until the tops no longer wobble when touched gently. Cool the shells completely on the baking sheets before handling.
Step 8: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the caramels with heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth and fluid. Stir in kosher salt. Allow the caramel to cool slightly until it thickens to a pipeable consistency.
Step 9: Pipe a layer of the apple white chocolate ganache onto one macaron shell. Follow with a dollop of salted caramel on top of the ganache. Sandwich with a second macaron shell. Repeat the process with remaining shells and fillings.
Step 10: Place assembled macarons in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to mature. This resting time enhances the flavor melding and improves the texture of the macarons. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best enjoyment.

Pro Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Macarons

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for autumn-inspired gatherings.
Store in the refrigerator for optimal flavor.
For an extra touch, drizzle with melted chocolate for a sophisticated finish.
Consider using gluten-free almond flour for a gluten-free version.

Best Ways to Serve Caramel Apple Macarons

These delightful cookies are best enjoyed with a warm cup of cider or coffee. You can also serve them at fall-themed parties or pack them in jars as gifts. For a twist, try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious caramel-flavored macarons dessert!

How to Store and Reheat Caramel Apple Macarons

To keep your homemade caramel apple macarons fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, but they are best enjoyed within a few days. Allow them to reach room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Apple Macarons

What’s the secret to perfect Caramel Apple Macarons?

The secret lies in properly beating the meringue to stiff peaks and ensuring the macaronage is done correctly. This ensures a smooth texture and beautiful rise.

Can I make Caramel Apple Macarons ahead of time?

Absolutely! These macarons can be made a day in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Caramel Apple Macarons?

To prevent common pitfalls, make sure you accurately measure your ingredients, properly dry your macaron shells, and avoid overmixing the batter.

Variations of Caramel Apple Macarons You Can Try

For a unique twist, consider making vegan caramel apple macarons by substituting the egg whites with aquafaba. You can also experiment with different fillings, like a chocolate ganache or a spiced apple filling, to create a different flavor profile.

For more tips on making macarons, check out this guide on Serious Eats.

Additionally, if you’re interested in learning about the health benefits of apples, you can visit this Healthline article.

For a delicious drink pairing, consider serving these with a warm cup of cider.