INTRODUCTION
Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cinnamon, the richness of apple butter, and the lightness of meringue. Macarons are delicate French cookies that can be filled with various creams and jams. They have gained popularity for their unique flavors and beautiful appearance. Making these cookies may seem challenging at first, but with the right guidance, anyone can create these stunning desserts at home.
These Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons offer a warm and cozy flavor that reminds us of fall. The blend of cinnamon and apple brings a comforting taste, while the buttery smoothness of the filling adds a rich texture. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and slightly spicy, making them an ideal treat for gatherings, holidays, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons. First, they are visually appealing. Their vibrant color, thanks to the food coloring, makes them a feast for the eyes. Second, these macarons are packed with flavor. The combination of cinnamon and apple butter creates a taste that is both sweet and spicy, reminiscent of apple pie.
Another great reason is the texture. The shells are crisp on the outside yet chewy on the inside, with the creamy filling providing a delightful contrast. Furthermore, making macarons at home allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your preference.
Lastly, this recipe is simple enough for beginners, yet it offers the chance to impress friends and family. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, these macarons will bring joy to your kitchen.
HOW TO MAKE Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons
Making Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons is a fun and rewarding process. Here’s how to create these lovely cookies step by step.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make these macarons, you will need:
- A stand mixer with a whisk attachment
- Large mixing bowls
- A silicone mat or parchment paper
- A piping bag with a round tip
- A baking sheet
- A sifter
- An offset spatula (optional)
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 100 grams egg whites, room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 60 grams granulated sugar
- 110 grams almond flour, sifted
- 200 grams powdered sugar, sifted
- 2-3 drops red food coloring
- 113 grams unsalted butter, room temperature
- 180 grams powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream, as needed for consistency
- 140 grams apple butter
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- Sift almond flour and powdered sugar into a large bowl and set aside.
- In a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, whisk egg whites on medium speed until foamy, then add cream of tartar.
- Increase to medium-high speed and gradually add granulated sugar. Whisk on high until soft peaks form.
- Add food coloring and whisk until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in dry ingredients until the batter reaches a ‘flowing lava’ consistency.
- Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper and pipe 1-inch rounds.
- Let sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes until glossy and a skin forms.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes. Let cool completely.
- For the buttercream, cream butter and powdered sugar, then mix in cinnamon, vanilla, and cream until fluffy.
- Pipe buttercream on one shell, add apple butter, and sandwich with another shell.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 12-24 hours before serving.
HOW TO SERVE Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons
Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons can be served in various ways. They are wonderful as a dessert at dinner parties or gatherings. You can place them on a pretty plate and sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for garnish. They pair well with coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacks.
For a special occasion, consider making a macaron tower. Stack them in different colors and flavors for a beautiful display. These macarons can also be packaged in a decorative box as a homemade gift for friends or family.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons
To keep your Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about 3-5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
If you want to freeze them, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons can be enjoyed in several ways. Here are some fun ideas:
- Serve them alongside hot apple cider during the fall.
- Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- Crumble them over yogurt or oatmeal for a unique breakfast treat.
- Stack them with other flavored macarons for a diverse dessert platter.
VARIATIONS
There are many ways to customize your Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons. Here are a few ideas:
- Change the filling. Instead of apple butter, use other fruit jams or flavored buttercreams, like pumpkin spice or caramel.
- Experiment with flavors. Add different spices like nutmeg or ginger to the buttercream for a new twist.
- Use different food colors. You can use yellow or green food coloring to represent different apple varieties.
- Drizzle chocolate. After the macarons are filled, drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
FAQs
1. Can I make macarons without almond flour?
Yes, you can use finely ground hazelnuts or other nut flours, but the taste and texture will vary.
2. What can I do if my macarons don’t form a skin?
Make sure to let them sit at room temperature for at least 30-40 minutes before baking. If the weather is humid, it might take a bit longer.
3. Why did my macarons crack on top?
Cracked macarons can happen due to overmixing the batter, not letting them rest long enough, or baking at too high a temperature.
4. Can I use an egg substitute?
Traditional macarons rely on egg whites for their structure, so using an egg substitute can be tricky. It’s best to stick with eggs for optimal results.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons
To save time, you can prepare certain elements of the recipe in advance. Here are some tips:
- You can make the apple butter ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Make the macaron shells a day before and store them in an airtight container. Fill them just before serving for the best texture.
- Prepare the buttercream in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just give it a quick mix before using.
By following these tips, you’ll find that making Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons can be easy and enjoyable. With a little patience and practice, you’ll impress everyone with your delicious homemade treats!
Cinnamon Apple Butter Macarons
Ingredients
Method
- Sift almond flour and powdered sugar into a large bowl and set aside.
- In a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, whisk egg whites on medium speed until foamy, then add cream of tartar.
- Increase to medium-high speed and gradually add granulated sugar. Whisk on high until soft peaks form.
- Add food coloring and whisk until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in dry ingredients until the batter reaches a 'flowing lava' consistency.
- Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper and pipe 1-inch rounds.
- Let sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes until glossy and a skin forms.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Bake for 13-15 minutes. Let cool completely.
- For the buttercream, cream butter and powdered sugar, then mix in cinnamon, vanilla, and cream until fluffy.
- Pipe buttercream on one shell, add apple butter, and sandwich with another shell.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 12-24 hours before serving.