How To Make Meringue With Splenda

Creating meringue with Splenda is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy a sugar-free alternative to the classic dessert. The key is to substitute sugar with Splenda® Sugar Blend without compromising the texture or flavor. Below, you’ll find detailed steps, tips, and insights to perfect this recipe.

Ingredients You Need

To make meringue with Splenda, you’ll need:

• 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅔ cup Splenda® Sugar Blend

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 250°F (120°C).
• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Egg Whites

• In a clean mixing bowl, add the egg whites.
• Use an electric mixer to beat them on high speed until they turn foamy. Ensure no yolk is present, as even a small amount of fat can prevent the meringue from forming peaks.

3. Add Cream of Tartar and Vanilla

• Gradually sprinkle in the cream of tartar while continuing to beat the egg whites. This stabilizes the mixture.
• Add the vanilla extract to infuse flavor.

4. Incorporate Splenda

• Slowly add the Splenda® Sugar Blend, one tablespoon at a time.
• Allow each spoonful to dissolve fully before adding the next. This ensures the meringue achieves a smooth, glossy texture.
• Continue beating until the mixture forms stiff peaks that hold their shape when the whisk is lifted.

5. Shape the Meringues

• Use a spoon to place dollops of the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.
• Leave space between each dollop to allow for even baking.

6. Bake the Meringues

• Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• If the meringues start to brown, reduce the oven temperature to 225°F (107°C).

7. Allow to Cool

• After baking, turn off the oven but leave the meringues inside with the door closed.
• Let them cool and dry out completely for about 8 hours or overnight. This step ensures a crisp texture.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Gently peel the meringues off the parchment paper.
• Serve as a light, sweet treat or use them as a topping for other desserts.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Eggs: Egg whites whip more efficiently when at room temperature. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
• Clean Equipment: Ensure the mixing bowl and whisk are grease-free. Residual grease can interfere with forming peaks.
• Gradual Mixing: Adding Splenda gradually helps maintain the structure of the meringue.
• Low and Slow Baking: The low oven temperature prevents the meringues from browning while allowing them to dry out completely.
• Storage: Store meringues in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. They can last up to two weeks if kept dry.

Variations to Try

1. Chocolate Meringue

• Fold in a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder after the meringue has reached stiff peaks.
• Proceed with shaping and baking as usual.

2. Lemon Meringue

• Add a teaspoon of lemon zest and a few drops of lemon extract during the mixing process.

3. Swirled Meringues

• Add a drop of food coloring to the meringue mixture before shaping and swirl lightly with a toothpick for a decorative effect.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 10
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 0g

This recipe makes approximately 60 meringue bites, making it an ideal choice for low-calorie, sugar-free indulgence.

Why Use Splenda?

Splenda® Sugar Blend offers a balance of sweetness while reducing sugar content. It behaves similarly to sugar in baking, providing the structure and caramelization required for meringue. Unlike artificial sweeteners that can leave an aftertaste, Splenda blends seamlessly into recipes, maintaining the integrity of the dessert.