Savory Beet Macarons with Whipped Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch
Okay, let’s flip everything you thought you knew about macarons on its head because these aren’t sweet. These Savory Beet Macarons are a stunning, unexpected appetizer or amuse-bouche that blends elegance with earthy, creamy, and nutty flavors. Think vibrant beet shells, soft and chewy like a traditional macaron, filled with tangy whipped goat cheese and a touch of toasted walnut crunch. They’re bold, beautiful, and guaranteed to start conversations.
Why You’ll Love Savory Beet Macarons
Because they’re gorgeous, for one. And then there’s that flavor combo the sweet earthiness of beets, the creamy tang of goat cheese, and the nutty snap of walnuts. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to wow your tastebuds, these are unforgettable.
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use freeze-dried beet powder for color and flavor without excess moisture.
- Don’t skip aging the egg whites it helps with macaron structure.
- Let shells rest before baking for that perfect smooth top and signature feet.
- Pipe the filling gently to avoid cracking delicate shells.
Ingredients
For the Macaron Shells:
- 100g egg whites, aged at room temp
- 100g almond flour
- 100g powdered sugar
- 90g granulated sugar
- 1 tsp beetroot powder (plus more for color, if needed)
- Pinch of cream of tartar
- A few drops of red or pink food coloring (optional, for deeper hue)
For the Filling:
- 6 oz goat cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp cream cheese or Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, finely chopped

Instructions
1. Sift together almond flour, powdered sugar, and beetroot powder. Set aside.
2. In a clean bowl, whip egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat to stiff peaks.
3. Gently fold in dry ingredients until batter flows like lava (macaronage stage).
4. Pipe 1.5″ rounds onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Tap to remove air bubbles.
5. Let sit at room temp 30–45 minutes until tops are dry to the touch.
6. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 12–14 minutes. Cool completely before filling.
7. Beat goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, salt, and pepper until fluffy.
8. Pipe onto one shell, sprinkle with walnuts, and top with another shell.
9. Chill assembled macarons for at least 1 hour before serving for best texture.
Texture & Flavor Secrets
The shells are crisp on the outside and chewy inside, with just a hint of beet’s earthy sweetness. The filling is tangy, rich, and balanced by the toasted crunch of walnuts. Every bite is a delightful contrast of texture and flavor — familiar and totally new at the same time.
How to Serve Savory Beet Macarons
Serve chilled or just slightly cool. They make the perfect party bite, an elegant amuse-bouche on a tasting menu, or even a gourmet Valentine’s Day appetizer. Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling rosé for that extra luxe moment.
Creative Leftover Transformations
- Crumble them into a salad with arugula and roasted beets.
- Turn extras into a stunning savory “macaron tower” appetizer centerpiece.
- Pipe leftover goat cheese on crostini or crackers for a bonus snack.
Additional Tips
- Want more tang? Add a bit of lemon zest to the filling.
- Sub walnuts with pistachios or hazelnuts for a twist.
- Add chopped herbs like chives or thyme for an herby version.
- No beet powder? Roast and dehydrate beets, then grind — or try a tiny bit of beet juice, carefully.
Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)
- Stack on a marble platter with fresh herbs or edible flowers.
- Serve in a mini cupcake liner for an elegant canapé look.
- Dust with a touch of gold shimmer or beet powder before serving.
- Use a piping tip to create rosette-style fillings for flair.
FAQ’s
1. Are savory macarons hard to make?
They take precision, but once you get the technique, they’re totally doable.
2. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes assemble and chill up to 2 days ahead. Let sit 10 minutes at room temp before serving.
3. Can I freeze them?
You can freeze unfilled shells. Fill after thawing for best texture.
4. Is the beet flavor strong?
Not overpowering it’s more earthy than sweet, and the goat cheese balances it perfectly.
5. Can I make this nut-free?
Use sunflower seed flour instead of almond flour, but note that texture may vary slightly.
6. Do I need food coloring?
No, beet powder adds natural color, but you can boost with food coloring if desired.
7. What wine pairs well?
Try a dry sparkling rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, or a floral Gewürztraminer.
8. Can I use pre-made shells?
Sure! Tint with a beet glaze or edible powder to get the color.
9. What if my shells crack?
They’ll still taste amazing! Dust with powder or stack creatively to cover imperfections.
10. How many does this make?
About 20–24 assembled macarons, depending on size.
Conclusion
Savory Beet Macarons with Whipped Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch are the kind of culinary surprise that gets people talking. Beautiful, balanced, and bursting with flavor, they’re an artistic twist on a classic sweet turned chic and savory. Perfect for when you want to serve something unforgettable.
Print
Savory Beet Macarons with Whipped Goat Cheese & Walnut Crunch
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 20 macarons 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A bold twist on the classic French macaron—these vibrant beet-infused shells are filled with tangy whipped goat cheese and topped with a walnut crunch for an elegant, savory bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons beet powder
- Pinch of salt
- Filling:
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Walnut Crunch:
- 1/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sift together almond flour, beet powder, and powdered sugar.
- In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold dry mixture into the meringue until batter flows like lava (macaronage stage).
- Pipe 1-inch rounds onto baking sheet. Tap tray to release air bubbles. Let rest 30 minutes until a skin forms.
- Bake for 15–17 minutes. Cool completely before removing.
- Meanwhile, mix goat cheese, cream cheese, and cream until smooth and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toast walnuts in olive oil and honey for 2–3 minutes. Let cool.
- Pipe filling onto one macaron shell, sprinkle with walnut crunch, and top with another shell to sandwich.
Notes
- Use cooked, puréed beets instead of beet powder for natural color, but reduce moisture carefully.
- Chill assembled macarons for at least 1 hour for best texture.
- Serve as a starter or sophisticated canapé.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 macaron
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
Keywords: savory macarons, beet goat cheese appetizer, walnut beet macaron, French savory snacks, elegant hors d’oeuvres