Thanksgiving Macarons: 7 Tips for Perfect Holiday Treats

Name: Thanksgiving Macarons: 7 Tips for Perfect Holiday Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 200g almond flour; 200g powdered sugar; 150g egg whites; 50g granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp pumpkin spice; 100g butter; 200g cream cheese; 100g powdered sugar (for filling)

novembre 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Ah, Thanksgiving! A time for family, feasting, and a whole lot of love. This year, I’m super excited to share my *thanksgiving macarons*, which add a delightful twist to the usual holiday spread. Imagine biting into a sweet meringue shell that’s crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, filled with a creamy pumpkin spice filling that just screams fall! Trust me, these little gems are a perfect way to surprise your guests and elevate your dessert game. They remind me of my childhood, baking with my grandmother, who always said that a little sweetness goes a long way. So, let’s dive into this festive treat that captures the essence of Thanksgiving in every bite!

Ingredients List

200g almond flour: This gives the macarons their signature texture and nutty flavor. Make sure it’s finely ground for smooth shells!
200g powdered sugar: Sifted to eliminate any lumps, this sweetens the macarons and helps create that lovely glossy finish.
150g egg whites: These should be at room temperature for best results. They whip up beautifully to create the airy structure of the shells.
50g granulated sugar: Gradually added to the egg whites to stabilize them while whipping to stiff peaks.
1 tsp vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor. Trust me, it’s worth it!
1 tsp pumpkin spice: The star of the show! This blend brings all the cozy fall vibes right into your macarons.
100g butter: Make sure it’s softened, so it blends well into the filling, giving it that creamy texture.
200g cream cheese: This adds a tangy richness to the filling, making it irresistible!
100g powdered sugar (for filling): Sifted again for a smooth, sweet filling that complements the pumpkin spice perfectly.

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Macarons

Preheat and Prepare the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). This step is super important because it ensures that your macarons bake evenly. While the oven warms up, line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper. I like to use this paper because it helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it gives your macarons that lovely flat base they need to rise just right!

Mixing the Ingredients

Now, grab a bowl and combine your almond flour and powdered sugar. Make sure to sift them together well—this helps avoid any lumps and ensures a smoother texture in your shells. Next, let’s work on the egg whites! In a separate bowl, whisk those egg whites until they’re frothy, then slowly add in the granulated sugar. Keep whisking until you reach stiff peaks. You’ll know you’re there when the mixture stands up straight on its own. This is the secret to that airy macaron structure!

Folding Technique

Alright, it’s time for the gentle folding! Carefully add the dry ingredients to your whipped egg whites. Use a spatula to fold them in, being super gentle—this isn’t a mixing race! You want to incorporate everything without losing all that precious air you just whipped in. A good rule of thumb is to fold until you see no more dry ingredients, but be cautious; overmixing can lead to flat shells!

Piping the Macarons

Once your batter is ready, it’s time to transfer it to a piping bag. I like to use a round tip for that classic macaron shape. Pipe circles onto your lined baking sheets, leaving about an inch of space between them to give them room to spread. It helps to practice your piping technique on a piece of parchment first if you’re new to this—just make sure they’re all about the same size for even baking!

Baking Instructions

Pop those trays into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll want to check for doneness when the tops are firm and don’t jiggle. Once done, take them out and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This is crucial, as they can break easily if you try to remove them too soon!

Making the Filling

While your macarons are cooling, let’s whip up the filling! In a bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and pumpkin spice. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. You want it to be smooth enough to spread easily, but thick enough that it holds shape between those lovely shells!

Assembling the Macarons

Now for the fun part! Take one macaron shell, pipe a generous dollop of your creamy filling onto it, and then gently place another shell on top to create a sandwich. I like to let them sit for at least 24 hours in the fridge before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for a more delightful bite. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Tips for Success

Making *thanksgiving macarons* can feel a bit intimidating, but with a few expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating those perfect little treats! Here are some of my favorite pointers to ensure your macarons turn out just right:

Humidity Matters: Macarons and humidity do not mix! If it’s a rainy day, try to wait for a drier one. High humidity can prevent the shells from forming that crucial skin, leading to flat or cracked macarons. Aim for a low-humidity environment if possible.
Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping. This helps them whip up to the desired volume and stiffness much more easily, giving your macarons that light and airy texture we all love.
Age Your Egg Whites: Consider letting your egg whites sit out overnight in the fridge. This process, known as aging, can help improve the texture and stability of your meringue.
Don’t Rush the Resting: Allow your piped macarons to rest until a skin forms—about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that lovely smooth top and helps them rise properly while baking!
Oven Thermometer: Invest in an oven thermometer! Ovens can often be off by quite a bit, affecting your baking time. A reliable thermometer will help you ensure that your macarons bake at the perfect temperature.
Check for Doneness: When baking, gently touch the tops of the macarons to see if they’re firm before taking them out. If they’re still soft and wobbly, give them a few more minutes. You want them to hold their shape!
Practice Piping: If you’re new to piping, practice on some parchment paper before you start with the actual batter. This will help you get a feel for the pressure and size you need for those perfect circles.
Keep It Clean: Make sure your mixing bowls and utensils are completely grease-free. Any residue can interfere with the egg whites whipping up properly, so a clean workspace is key!

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be setting yourself up for macaron success! Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious moment of creating your *thanksgiving macarons*!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional data for each of my delightful *thanksgiving macarons*. Keep in mind that these values are based on typical ingredients, so they can vary a bit depending on specific brands and measurements. But this should give you a good idea of what to expect:

Serving Size: 1 macaron
Calories: 150
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 2g

These little treats may be indulgent, but they’re also a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the season! Enjoy savoring these macarons as a part of your holiday festivities!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making *thanksgiving macarons*? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that I hear often, along with my best answers to help you navigate your macaron journey.

Can I use different flavors instead of pumpkin spice?
Absolutely! While pumpkin spice is a festive favorite, you can switch it up with flavors like maple, vanilla, or even chai spice. The key is to keep the dry ingredients balanced, so adjust accordingly.

What should I do if my macarons crack while baking?
Cracked macarons can happen for a few reasons. Most often, it’s due to overmixing the batter or baking at too high a temperature. Make sure you’re folding gently and keeping a close eye on your oven’s temperature—using an oven thermometer can help with this!

How do I store my macarons?
To keep your *thanksgiving macarons* fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to a week. For the best flavor, let them sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours before serving. If you want to freeze them, wrap each macaron individually and store them in a freezer-safe container. Just remember to let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying!

Can I make macarons ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Making your macarons a day or two in advance actually enhances the flavors as they rest in the fridge. Just keep them stored properly, and you’ll have delicious treats ready to impress your guests!

Why did my macarons turn out flat?
Flat macarons can be a bit disappointing, but don’t fret! This can happen if your meringue wasn’t whipped enough or if you overmixed the batter. Make sure you achieve stiff peaks when whipping the egg whites and be gentle when folding in the dry ingredients.

Can I use egg whites from a carton?
Yes! If you’re using liquid egg whites from a carton, make sure to check if they are pasteurized. They’ll work just fine, but for the best results, try to use fresh egg whites whenever possible.

What’s the best way to pipe the filling?
Using a piping bag with a round tip is ideal for filling your macarons. Make sure to pipe a generous amount in the center, then gently press the top shell down to spread the filling to the edges. It’s all about that perfect balance of filling without it oozing out!

I hope these answers help you feel more confident in making your *thanksgiving macarons*! Remember, practice makes perfect, and each batch is a chance to learn and enjoy the sweet process of baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive Flavor: These *thanksgiving macarons* are infused with cozy pumpkin spice, bringing that warm, autumnal taste to your dessert table.
Impressive Presentation: With their delicate shells and vibrant colors, these macarons are sure to wow your guests and make your holiday spread look extra special.
Easy to Make: Don’t let the fancy name fool you—this recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all levels. I promise, you can do it!
Customizable: The filling can be tailored to your taste! Feel free to switch up the spices or even add in flavors like maple or chocolate for a unique twist.
Great for Gifting: Pack them up in a beautiful box, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift that your friends and family will adore.
Perfect Make-Ahead Treat: These macarons benefit from a little resting time, making them ideal for preparing in advance so you can enjoy the festivities without last-minute stress.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Making these macarons can be a delightful family activity—let the kids help with mixing and piping for a fun kitchen experience!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your *thanksgiving macarons* properly is key to keeping them fresh and delicious! Once you’ve filled and assembled your macarons, place them in an airtight container. I like to use a container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking, which is super helpful! You can store them in the fridge for up to a week, but trust me, they get even tastier after resting for at least 24 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), just make sure to keep them sealed tightly in that airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze your macarons! Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight. No need to reheat—just let them come to a nice cool temperature, and they’re ready to be savored!

By following these storage tips, you’ll ensure that your *thanksgiving macarons* remain fresh and flavorful, ready to impress your family and friends any time you want to share this festive treat!

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