Savory Beet Macarons with Whipped Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch -

Bold, beautiful, and undeniably savory, these Savory Beet Macarons with Whipped Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch are not just your average French confection. Infused with the earthy sweetness of beets and gourmet flavors, these elegance-filled delights offer a perfect balance of texture and taste, delighting both the palate and the eyes. A vibrant pink exterior conceals a creamy, tangy filling of whipped goat cheese, elevated by a satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts. This unique twist on a classic macaron is not just a meal but a master experience for those daring enough to venture beyond traditional desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe elevates the traditional macaron to new savory heights, combining bold flavors in a delicate shell. The smooth goat cheese filling harmonizes beautifully with the crunchy walnuts, while the beetroot powder gives an eye-catching rosy hue. Perfect for events, these macarons shine as a sophisticated hors d’œuvre that transports your guests’ taste buds to unexplored realms of flavor. Prepare to amaze your friends and family with these gourmet bites that redefine what a macaron can be.

Pro Tips for Making Savory Beet Macarons

Before diving into the recipe, here are some expert tips to ensure the perfect macaron:

Use room temperature egg whites: This helps in achieving the desired volume and stability when whisking.
Check your oven temperature: Ovens may vary; consider using an oven thermometer to ensure precise baking conditions.
Rest the shells: Allowing the piped macarons to rest before baking helps form a skin, ensuring they rise properly and develop those beautiful “feet.”
Experiment with flavors: While this recipe features goat cheese, other cheeses or cream fillings can be used to personalize your macarons further.
Practice piping techniques: A steady hand is required for uniform sizes; practice can help improve your skills.

Ingredients

Below is a list of all the ingredients you’ll need for your savory beet macarons:

For the Beet Macaron Shells

90 g egg whites (room temperature)
100 g granulated sugar
100 g almond flour
100 g powdered sugar
1 tbsp beetroot powder or 2 tsp beet juice (for color)
Pinch of salt

For the Whipped Goat Cheese Filling

150 g soft goat cheese
2 tbsp cream cheese
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Walnut Crunch

1 cup walnuts (toasted and finely chopped)
1 tsp olive oil
Pinch of smoked paprika or sea salt

Optional Garnish

Microgreens
Crushed walnuts or edible petals

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the macaron shells by sifting the almond flour and powdered sugar together into a large bowl. This step ensures the mixture is smooth, which is crucial for achieving the right texture in your macaron shells.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to whisk until stiff peaks are achieved. The mixture should be glossy and hold its shape.

Step 3: Gently fold in the sifted dry ingredients and beet powder until the mixture reaches a “lava-like” consistency. Be careful not to deflate the mixture. It is essential to blend thoroughly to ensure even color and texture throughout the batter.

Step 4: Transfer the batter into a piping bag with a round tip and pipe 3 cm rounds onto a sheet of parchment paper. Leave enough space between each macaron for them to expand slightly while baking.

Step 5: Allow the piped macarons to rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature; this step helps form a skin on the surface of the shells.

Step 6: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and bake the macarons for 13-15 minutes, or until they are set and have formed “feet.” Make sure not to overbake them, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Step 7: Once baking is complete, cool the macarons completely on the parchment paper before attempting to remove them. They should lift off effortlessly once cooled.

Step 8: For the goat cheese filling, blend the goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, and lemon juice in a bowl until smooth and fluffy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. The filling should be rich but balanced in flavor with the right tang.

Step 9: To make the walnut crunch, mix the chopped walnuts with olive oil and a pinch of smoked paprika or sea salt in a bowl. Toast the mixture in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then let it cool.

Step 10: To assemble the macarons, pipe a ring of whipped goat cheese onto the flat side of one macaron shell, leaving a small gap in the center. Fill this gap with the toasted walnut crunch, then sandwich with another shell. The highs and lows of flavors will create a delightful bite.

Step 11: Serve the macarons as they are, or garnish with microgreens or a sprinkle of crushed walnuts. For optimal texture, chill the assembled macarons for about 1 hour before serving.

FAQ

Can I make these macarons in advance and freeze them?

Yes, you can freeze the unfilled macaron shells. Store them in an airtight container, and once you are ready to use them, let them thaw at room temperature, then fill with the goat cheese mixture.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If goat cheese isn’t to your liking, similar soft cheese options such as cream cheese or mascarpone can be used, though the flavor profile will be different.

How do I know when the macarons are baked correctly?

Macarons should have a smooth and glossy surface. When done, they should easily lift from the parchment without sticking, and they should have developed “feet” at the base.

What should I do if my macaron shells crack during baking?

Cracking usually indicates that the shells were overmixed or the oven temperature was too high. Ensure to fold the batter carefully and monitor the oven temperature closely.

Can I use fresh beet juice instead of beet powder?

Yes, fresh beet juice can be used, but it might change the texture and moisture content of the shells, so slightly adjust the dry ingredients if necessary.

Conclusion

With their vibrant color and sophisticated flavor profile, Savory Beet Macarons with Whipped Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch embrace both elegance and creativity in the culinary world. They make a striking addition to soirées or intimate gatherings, showcasing how versatile macarons can be beyond sweet offerings. So, gather your ingredients, follow these detailed instructions, and prepare to impress your guests with this stunning and savory masterpiece!