Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons Recipe for Soft, Sweet Treats

By:

Brandi Oshea

Published:

September 7, 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons

Hey there, fellow baking enthusiasts! If you’re like me, always on the hunt for treats that are as fun to make as they are to eat, then vegan salted caramel macarons are a game-changer. This recipe combines the light, airy magic of vegan macarons with the irresistible pull of salted caramel, making it a hit for home cooks, busy parents, or anyone craving something sweet without the guilt. Let me walk you through why these macarons will quickly become your go-to dessert.

One of the best parts about this vegan salted caramel macarons recipe is how easy it is to whip up. It uses simple steps and everyday ingredients, so even if you’re new to baking, you can create something impressive without much fuss. Plus, it’s a healthier twist on classic macarons, swapping out eggs and dairy for plant-based options that keep things light and nutritious.

Beyond the ease, these macarons pack a flavorful punch that sets them apart. The creamy salted caramel filling offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty, paired with crisp shells that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe’s adaptability means it fits all kinds of diets, from gluten-free to low-calorie.

To give you a fuller picture, here’s a quick overview of the benefits in a table:

Feature	Why It Matters
Ease of Preparation	Simple steps make it ideal for beginners, with minimal ingredients and quick assembly.
Health Benefits	Plant-based and free from dairy and eggs, supporting lower calories and better wellness.
Versatility	Easily customized for gluten-free or nut-free needs, so everyone can enjoy.
Distinctive Flavor	The salted caramel adds a unique sweet-savory twist that elevates the whole experience.

All in all, once you try these vegan salted caramel macarons, you’ll see why they’re so addictive. They bring joy to your kitchen and make sharing food even more special.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons
2. Essential Ingredients for Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons: Step-by-Step Guide

4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons
5. Mastering Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons: Best Practices

7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons
8. Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons

Essential Ingredients for Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons

When diving into vegan salted caramel macarons, getting the ingredients right is key to success. This section breaks down everything you need, pulled straight from the recipe details, so you can shop smart and measure accurately. I love how these plant-based swaps keep things delicious while being kinder to your body and the planet.

Let’s start with the full list of ingredients. I’ve formatted it as a clear, structured list to make it easy to follow. Remember, precise measurements ensure your macarons turn out perfectly every time.

Vegan Macaron Shells Ingredients

200 ml aquafaba (chickpea water)
133 grams almond flour
133 grams powdered sugar
1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional, for a tan color)
133 grams white sugar
40 ml water

Vegan Salted Caramel Frosting Ingredients

3 tablespoons vegan margarine
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon almond milk
Pinch of fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 to 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)

These ingredients come together to create that signature crisp shell and creamy filling. For special dietary tweaks, you can swap almond flour for alternatives if needed, but stick to these measurements for the best results. If you’re curious about more plant-based baking ideas, check out our no-churn vanilla ice cream recipe on the blog for a cool companion to your macarons.

How to Prepare the Perfect Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons: Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, let’s get to the fun part making vegan salted caramel macarons from scratch! This step-by-step guide walks you through the process, based on the detailed directions provided. It’s all about patience and precision, but don’t worry, I’ll keep it light and encouraging along the way.

First, start by preparing your ingredients. Reduce 200 ml of aquafaba in a saucepan by simmering until it reaches about half its volume and has a slimy consistency; let it cool to room temperature, then measure out 100 ml. Sift 133 grams almond flour, 133 grams powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon cocoa powder if you’re using it. This sets the stage for those flawless shells.

Next, in a separate bowl, whip the remaining 50 ml aquafaba to stiff peaks using a mixer. Meanwhile, prepare a sugar syrup by boiling 40 ml water and 133 grams white sugar to 245°F. Slowly add this syrup to the whipped aquafaba while mixing on medium-low speed, then crank it up to high until you get glossy, stiff peaks. Mix 50 ml of the prepared aquafaba with the dry ingredients to form a thick paste, then fold in the meringue using a J-fold technique until the batter is glossy and flows just right.

Piping and Baking the Shells

Now, pipe the batter into 1.5-inch circles on parchment or silicone mats, tap the trays to release air bubbles, and let them dry for 30 to 60 minutes until the surface feels dry. Bake at 210°F, one tray at a time, for 6 minutes, rotate, and continue for a total of 30 minutes. Turn off the oven and leave the macarons inside for 20 minutes before cooling them completely.

For the frosting, simmer 3 tablespoons vegan margarine, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon almond milk, and a pinch of fine sea salt in a saucepan until thickened and darker. Let it cool, then whip briefly and add 3/4 to 1 cup sifted powdered sugar and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract until it’s thick and ready to pipe.

To assemble, pipe the frosting onto half the cooled shells and top with the rest. For a nice touch, drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle sea salt. The whole process takes about 1 hour prep, 2 hours cook time, and totals around 3 hours, but it’s worth every minute. If you enjoy this method, you might like our salted caramel ice cream for another sweet treat idea.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons

One of the beauties of vegan salted caramel macarons is how flexible they are. Whether you’re dealing with allergies or just want to mix things up, these swaps keep the recipe tasty and inclusive. Let’s explore some easy changes based on the details shared.

For the main components, you can replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour or oat flour for a nut-free version. Aquafaba remains the star as your egg substitute, but if you’re experimenting, try it from other legumes. On the flavor side, add vanilla or espresso powder to the caramel for a fun twist, or toss in chili flakes for some heat.

Seasonal variations are a blast too like mixing pureed pumpkin or beetroot into the batter for color and subtle tastes. These adjustments help maintain the macarons’ texture and flavor while fitting different preferences. As a bonus, they’re naturally gluten-free and low-calorie with a few tweaks.

Mastering Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve nailed the basics, it’s time to level up your vegan salted caramel macarons with some pro tips. Grinding almond flour finely in a food processor makes for smoother shells, and perfecting the macaronage folding until the batter forms a ribbon is crucial for those iconic feet.

Try flavor twists like adding lavender, matcha, or orange zest to the shells or filling. For presentation, dust with sea salt flakes or use contrasting colors to make them pop. You can prep shells and frosting ahead, storing them separately for freshness before assembling.

Remember, as one tip puts it, “Expect some trial and error, as vegan macaron baking can vary based on oven and technique.” This mindset helps you enjoy the process and improve over time.

These ideas, drawn from the recipe’s pointers, make your macarons stand out. For more inspiration on desserts, check out tips in our related recipes.

How to Store Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons: Best Practices

Storing your vegan salted caramel macarons right keeps them fresh and flavorful. Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain that creamy filling. For longer, freeze them in a single layer with parchment paper, then thaw overnight in the fridge.

Avoid reheating with direct heat; just let them reach room temperature for the best texture. If you’re meal prepping, make components separately to save time for events. This approach, from the recipe details, ensures your treats stay delicious.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Salted Caramel Macarons

What ingredients are used to make vegan salted caramel macarons?

Vegan salted caramel macarons are made by replacing traditional egg whites with aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas. The shells usually combine aquafaba with almond flour and powdered sugar. The salted caramel filling is typically made from coconut cream, vegan butter, brown sugar or coconut sugar, and sea salt, creating a rich, dairy-free caramel flavor that pairs perfectly with the delicate shells.

How do you know when vegan macaron batter is ready for baking?

To test macaron batter consistency, use the “figure 8” test by lifting a spatula through the batter and letting it fall back—if the batter flows smoothly without breaking and forms a continuous ribbon, it’s ready. Additionally, when a small dollop is dropped onto parchment paper, it should spread slightly and have a glossy surface. These signs mean the batter will produce smooth, well-formed shells.

How long should vegan salted caramel macarons dry before baking and why?

Vegan macarons should dry for 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on humidity. The shells need to develop a thin, dry skin on the surface before baking. This skin helps prevent cracking and creates the classic macaron “feet” during baking. To test dryness, gently touch the shells; if they don’t stick to your finger, they’re ready to bake.

Can you store assembled vegan salted caramel macarons, and how long do they last?

Yes, assembled vegan salted caramel macarons can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. For longer storage, you can freeze the macarons for up to one month; thaw them overnight in the fridge.

What temperature should the sugar syrup reach when making vegan macaron meringue using the Italian method?

When using the Italian method for vegan macaron meringue, the sugar syrup must be heated to 245°F (118°C). This temperature creates a stable syrup that, when slowly poured into whipped aquafaba, forms a glossy, fluffy meringue with the right structure to fold perfectly into the dry ingredients. Using a candy thermometer ensures accuracy for consistent results.