Name: Savory Macarons with Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 91 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Almond Flour (Provides structure and nuttiness); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sweetens and smooths the shells); 2 tbsp Beetroot Powder (Adds color and earthy flavor); 3 Aged Egg Whites (Essential for meringue stability); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens meringue); 1/4 tsp Cream of Tartar (Stabilizes egg whites); 1/4 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor); 4 oz Fresh Goat Cheese (Lends creaminess and tang); 4 oz Cream Cheese (Adds richness); 1 tbsp Heavy Cream (Adjusts filling consistency); 1/2 cup Toasted Walnuts (Provides crunch); 2 tbsp Extra Walnut Crumbs (For garnish and texture); to taste Micro Herbs or Beet Powder (For decorative dusting)

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As I stood in my kitchen, an unexpected idea danced through my mind: what if I transformed the humble beet into a piece of edible art? These Savory Beet Macarons with Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch are the delicious result! Perfect for impressing your guests, these macarons boast a vibrant, jewel-toned exterior that contrasts beautifully with a tangy goat cheese filling, amplified by the crunch of toasted walnuts. Not only are they a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, but they also offer a savory twist that elevates them far beyond the ordinary appetizer. With their gluten-free almond flour base and easy prep, you’ll find that making these elegant bites is not just feasible but incredibly rewarding. Curious how to whip up this stunning dish? Let’s get cooking!

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Why Try Savory Beet Macarons?

Visual Delight: These macarons are not just delicious; their vibrant color makes them a stunning addition to any table setting.

Unique Flavor Combination: The earthy sweetness of beets perfectly complements the tangy goat cheese filling, making every bite a savory celebration.

Easy Prep: Don’t worry if you’re new to making macarons! This recipe is straightforward, so you can impress guests without stress.

Gluten-Free Goodness: Crafted with almond flour, these macarons are naturally gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs without compromising taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion: From cocktail parties to elegant brunches, these bites are sure to be the star of your next gathering! For more sophisticated bites, consider trying my Sausage Egg Cheese or Peach Cream Cheese recipes as well!

Macarons with Goat Cheese Ingredients

• Discover how to make delicious and elegant macarons with goat cheese!

For the Shells

Almond Flour – Provides structure and nuttiness to the macaron shells, ensuring a delicate texture while remaining gluten-free.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the macaron shells and helps achieve a smooth consistency.
Beetroot Powder – Adds vibrant color and a slight earthy flavor to the macarons; substitute freeze-dried beet, ground for similar results.
Aged Egg Whites – Essential for creating meringue; increases stability and aerates the mixture.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the meringue and helps form stiff peaks.
Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes the egg whites, ensuring a robust structure.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor balance.

For the Filling

Fresh Goat Cheese – The main component of the filling, lending creaminess and tang to the macarons with goat cheese.
Cream Cheese – Adds richness and helps create a smoother filling texture.
Heavy Cream – Adjusts the filling consistency as needed; modify based on desired richness.
Toasted Walnuts – Provides crunch and nutty flavor; can be finely chopped for even distribution in the filling.
Extra Walnut Crumbs (Optional) – Used for garnish and added texture.
Micro Herbs or Beet Powder (Optional) – For decorative dusting when serving.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Beet Macarons with Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch

Step 1: Prepare Macaron Shells
Begin by sifting together the almond flour, powdered sugar, and beetroot powder into a large mixing bowl, ensuring no lumps remain. In a separate bowl, whip aged egg whites with cream of tartar and a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add granulated sugar, beating until stiff peaks form, which should take about 5 minutes of mixing. Carefully fold in the sifted dry ingredients until you achieve a smooth, lava-like batter, being cautious not to deflate the mixture.

Step 2: Pipe and Bake
Line two baking trays with parchment paper for your Savory Beet Macarons. Transfer the macaron batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe 3 cm (about 1.25 inches) rounds onto the parchment, leaving space between each. Tap the trays firmly on the counter to release any air bubbles. Let the piped shells rest for 30–45 minutes until they form a dry skin on the surface. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and bake the shells for 14–16 minutes, until they feel firm to the touch.

Step 3: Prepare Filling
While the macaron shells are cooling, prepare your luscious filling. In a mixing bowl, whip together fresh goat cheese, cream cheese, and heavy cream until the mixture is creamy and smooth, which should take about 2–3 minutes. Season the filling with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper for added flavor. Carefully fold in the chopped toasted walnuts, allowing the crunch to blend harmoniously with the creamy filling.

Step 4: Assemble Macarons
Once the macaron shells have completely cooled, it’s time to assemble your Savory Beet Macarons. Place one shell with the flat side facing up on your work surface. Pipe a generous amount of the goat cheese filling onto the center of the shell, creating a small mound. Gently press a second shell on top, flat side down, to create a sandwich. For added sophistication, let the assembled macarons chill for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

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How to Store and Freeze Macarons with Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch

Room Temperature: Keep unfilled macaron shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to preserve their crispness.

Fridge: Filled macarons can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Remember to let them come to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavors.

Freezer: Unfilled macaron shells can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between shells to prevent sticking.

Reheating: If you need to refresh your filled macarons, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture and taste.

Variations for Macarons with Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch

Feel free to play around with these savory macarons and make them your own masterpiece!

Herbed Cream Cheese: Substitute goat cheese with herbed cream cheese for an added layer of flavor and creaminess. This variation brightens up each bite!
Different Nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or hazelnuts to bring unique textures and nutty notes. Each nut variety adds its own character to the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a gentle heat that complements the earthy beets beautifully. This turns your appetizer into a delightful taste adventure!
Cheese Mix: Blend goat cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a creamier texture and flavors that harmonize exquisitely in every mouthful. It’s a decadent twist!
Vegetable Shells: Incorporate finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots into the macaron shells for added nutrition and an interesting color contrast. They become healthier and just as vibrant!
Savoury Dips: Serve your macarons with a tangy beet and yogurt dip for a delicious and visually stunning accompaniment. Such a delightful pairing!
Sweet-Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle with a sweet-balsamic reduction just before serving to add a sweet touch that balances the savory elements perfectly. It’s like a party on your plate!

These suggestions not only maintain the elegance of the macarons but also open up a world of flavor possibilities! And if you’re in the mood for more impressive bites, don’t miss my Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese or Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipes!

Expert Tips for Savory Beet Macarons

• Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best macarons with goat cheese & walnut crunch, select fresh almond flour and high-quality goat cheese to elevate the flavor.

• Room Temperature Eggs: Using aged, room temperature egg whites helps achieve the perfect meringue stability. Cold egg whites won’t whip up as well.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue until just combined. Overmixing can lead to flat, ineffective shells that will not rise properly.

• Resting Time: Allow the piped macaron shells to rest until dry to the touch, which reduces the risk of cracking during baking.

• Cool Completely: Ensure that the macaron shells are completely cool before filling. Filling warm shells can lead to a messy, soggy final product.

• Storage Wisdom: Keep unfilled shells in an airtight container at room temperature and fill them just before serving to maintain crispness.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Beet Macarons with Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance by baking them and storing them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. The goat cheese filling can be whipped and refrigerated up to 3 days ahead of time; just remember to allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using to ensure it pipes smoothly. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the macarons and let them chill in the fridge for an additional 30 minutes. This way, you’ll have elegantly crafted appetizers at your fingertips with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!

What to Serve with Savory Beet Macarons with Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch

These elegant bites not only steal the show but also invite delightful flavors to complement your culinary creation.

Crusty Baguette: The chewy texture of fresh baguette slices pairs beautifully with the creamy goat cheese filling, adding a satisfying crunch.
Mixed Green Salad: A light, zesty salad with vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the rich macarons, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Earthy roasted carrots and beets echo the flavors of the macarons, creating a harmonious flavor profile on your plate.
Savory Cheese Platter: Incorporate a selection of hard and soft cheeses, like aged cheddar and brie, to round out your appetizers while keeping your guests intrigued.
Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine balances the savory notes with its effervescence, offering a sophisticated touch to your gathering.
Herbed Goat Cheese Spread: Pair with a creamy herbed spread on crackers for an appetizer that resonates with the flavors of your savory macarons.
Fruity Chutney: A dollop of tangy chutney can introduce a layer of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the earthy macarons, sparking lively conversations.
Fresh Herbs Garnish: Add some fresh herbs like dill or chives as a garnish to uplift the presentation and create a visual and flavorful connection with your dish.

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Savory Beet Macarons with Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my beets are ripe enough?
Absolutely! Look for beets that are firm and smooth in texture, avoiding those with dark spots or soft areas. Smaller beets tend to be sweeter, while larger ones might be earthier. Choosing fresh, vibrant beets will enhance the flavor of your savory beet macarons.

What is the best way to store macarons?
For unfilled macaron shells, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’ve filled your macarons with the goat cheese mixture, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving. This helps in unlocking the flavors beautifully!

Can I freeze my filled macarons?
It’s best to freeze only unfilled shells, as filled macarons will not thaw well and may separate. To freeze unfilled shells, place them in a single layer in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What if my macarons crack while baking?
Very! Cracking usually results from overmixing the batter or not allowing the piped shells to rest sufficiently before baking. Ensure that you’ve gently folded the dry ingredients into the meringue just until combined. Also, give your macarons 30-45 minutes to rest until they form a dry skin. This will help prevent those unwanted cracks!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for macarons?
Definitely! This recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free, assuming you use almond flour. As for dairy, it contains goat cheese and cream, so watch out for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. If you’re tweaking the recipe for dietary needs, consider substituting with a nondairy cream cheese alternative for a tasty vegan option.

How long does the goat cheese filling last?
The goat cheese filling is best used fresh, but you can whip it up two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before using it on the macaron shells, ensuring it’s easy to pipe and spread!