Name: Meringues Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 24 h 10 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 cups sugar; 8 large egg whites; ¼ tsp cream of tartar; ¼ tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Meringue cookies are a delightful treat that balance a crisp exterior with a light, airy interior. They're simple yet elegant, perfect as a sweet finish to any meal or as a thoughtful, homemade gift.

Photos of Meringues Cookies Recipe

Our recipe includes the use of cream of tartar, a common baking ingredient but not always a household staple. It acts as a stabilizer for the egg whites, helping them hold their lofty peaks. If you're planning a trip to the grocery store, make sure to add this to your list.

Ingredients for Meringue Cookies

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cookies and helps to achieve the glossy, stiff peaks in the meringue.

Egg whites: Provides the structure for the cookies. When beaten, they trap air and create the meringue's signature light, airy texture.

Cream of tartar: It's an acid that stabilizes the egg whites ensuring they hold their shape.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the cookies.

Vanilla extract: Gives the cookies a delicate, subtle flavor.

One reader, Desmund Frame says:

These meringue cookies are a dream! The recipe is so easy to follow, and the cookies come out light, crispy, and absolutely delicious. They're the perfect sweet treat and always impress my guests. I love how versatile they are - I can add different flavors or toppings to make them unique every time. Highly recommended!

Desmund Frame

Techniques Required for Perfect Meringue Cookies

How to prepare meringue cookies: A step-by-step guide on how to make meringue cookies, including the process of beating the egg whites to stiff peaks, adding sugar gradually, and piping the cookies onto a baking sheet.

How to test for stiff peaks: A demonstration of how to check if the egg whites have reached stiff peaks by lifting the beaters and observing the peaks that form.

How to pipe meringue cookies: Instructions on how to transfer the meringue mixture into a pastry bag, select the appropriate tip, and pipe the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet in a circular motion.

How to rest the meringue cookies overnight: An explanation of the importance of allowing the meringue cookies to cool and dry out in the turned-off oven overnight to achieve the desired texture.

How To Make Meringues Cookies

Meringue cookies are lighter and airier because it uses egg whites primarily. Try these cookies and experience this easy melts-in-the-mouth goodness.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 50 minutes

Rest Time: 23 hours

Total: 1 day 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupssugardivided
8largeegg whites
¼tspcream of tartar
¼tspsalt
1tspvanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat oven to 250 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place 1 cup of the sugar in your food processor for 30 seconds and process until the granules become fine.
Mix the sugar with the remaining one cup of sugar in a medium bowl.
In your stand mixer add the egg whites on medium speed until foamy followed by the cream of tartar and salt.
Put the mixer on medium speed and add in a spoonful of sugar every 30 seconds then lastly, add in the vanilla extract.
Transfer in batches to a pastry bag with a star tip and pipe in a circle then spiral up onto itself .
Bake for 50 to 55 minutes then turn the oven off. Do not remove them or open the oven.
Rest the cookies overnight.

Nutrition

Calories: 70.80kcal
Fat: 0.02g
Saturated Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.00g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.00g
Carbohydrates: 16.78g
Fiber: 0.00g
Sugar: 16.73g
Protein: 1.20g
Sodium: 42.68mg
Calcium: 0.97mg
Potassium: 23.68mg
Iron: 0.02mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Mastering Meringue Cookies

When making meringue cookies, it's crucial to ensure that your egg whites are at room temperature before you start beating them. Cold egg whites will not whip up as well or hold as much air, resulting in a less fluffy and airy meringue. Additionally, make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry. Any trace of oil or fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Meringue Cookies Recipe

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to make the meringue cookies. This will help you work more efficiently and prevent any last-minute scrambling for ingredients.

Use a stand mixer: Using a stand mixer will save you time and effort in whipping the egg whites to the desired consistency. It will also ensure a more consistent and stable meringue.

Room temperature eggs: Allow the egg whites to come to room temperature before whipping. Room temperature egg whites whip up faster and to a greater volume than cold egg whites.

Piping bag: Use a piping bag with a star tip to create uniform shapes and sizes for the meringue cookies. This will save time and give a professional finish to the cookies.

Bake multiple batches: If you have multiple baking sheets, bake multiple batches at once to save time and energy. Just make sure there is enough space between the sheets for proper air circulation.

Cooling time: Allow the meringue cookies to cool in the oven overnight to save time on active preparation. This will also help the cookies develop a crisp exterior and a marshmallow-like interior.

Substitute Ingredients For Meringues Cookies Recipe

sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener and will add a unique flavor to the meringue cookies.
egg whites - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from a can of chickpeas, can be whipped into a foam similar to egg whites and used as a vegan alternative.
cream of tartar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used to stabilize the egg whites and achieve the same effect as cream of tartar.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a different flavor profile, adding a nutty and aromatic essence to the meringue cookies.

Presenting Meringue Cookies for Maximum Appeal

Elevate the meringue cookies: Create a stunning presentation by placing the meringue cookies on a bed of delicate spun sugar, adding a touch of elegance to the dish.
Garnish with fresh berries: Adorn the plate with a selection of vibrant berries such as raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries to add a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the presentation.
Dust with edible gold or silver flakes: Add a touch of luxury by delicately dusting the meringue cookies with edible gold or silver flakes, creating a visually striking and opulent finish.
Serve on a mirrored platter: Present the meringue cookies on a mirrored platter to create a sense of sophistication and to reflect the beauty of the cookies, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Accompany with a quenelle of whipped cream: Serve the meringue cookies with a quenelle of freshly whipped cream, elegantly placed alongside the cookies for a luxurious and indulgent touch.
Add a drizzle of fruit coulis: Enhance the plate with a delicate drizzle of fruit coulis, such as raspberry or passion fruit, to add a burst of flavor and a decorative element to the presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of whimsy and elegance by incorporating delicate and colorful edible flowers as a garnish, adding a visually stunning and sophisticated element to the dish.
Present on a bed of spun sugar: Elevate the presentation by placing the meringue cookies on a delicate bed of spun sugar, creating a visually captivating and ethereal display that will impress even the most discerning culinary professionals.

Essential Tools for Making Meringue Cookies

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as grinding, chopping, and blending ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a powerful kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It is particularly useful for making meringue cookies as it can efficiently whip the egg whites to the desired consistency.
Pastry bag with star tip: A pastry bag with a star tip is used for piping the meringue cookie batter onto the baking sheet in decorative shapes.
Baking sheet with parchment paper: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper provides a non-stick surface for baking the meringue cookies and makes for easy cleanup.
Oven: The oven is used for baking the meringue cookies at a low temperature to achieve a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy interior.
Spatula: A spatula is used for folding and gently mixing ingredients, such as when incorporating the processed sugar into the egg whites for the meringue cookies.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring the sugar, cream of tartar, salt, and vanilla extract for the meringue cookies recipe.

Storing and Freezing Meringue Cookies for Optimal Freshness

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for meringue cookies:

Store the meringue cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Make sure the container is completely dry and free of moisture before storing the cookies.
If you live in a humid environment, add a desiccant packet to the container to absorb any excess moisture and keep the meringue cookies crisp.
For longer storage, freeze the meringue cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. To prevent the cookies from sticking together, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer of cookies.
When ready to serve the frozen meringue cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Do not refreeze previously frozen meringue cookies as they may lose their texture and become soft or chewy.
If your meringue cookies become soft or chewy due to humidity or improper storage, you can crisp them up again by placing them in a preheated 200°F (93°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. Let them cool completely before storing them again in an airtight container.

Fascinating Facts About Meringue Cookies

The meringue cookies recipe is a classic dessert that is naturally gluten-free and low in fat. Meringue is a type of dessert made from whipped egg whites and sugar, and it is known for its light and airy texture. These cookies are a great option for those looking for a sweet treat without the guilt. Plus, they can be easily customized with different flavors and colors, making them a versatile and delicious dessert option.

Is Making Meringue Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

This meringue cookies recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. With only a few simple ingredients, such as sugar, egg whites, and vanilla extract, the cost per batch is minimal. The use of basic pantry staples makes this recipe budget-friendly and accessible. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5, making it an economical choice for a delightful dessert. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability and the delightful end result.

Are Meringue Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The meringue cookies recipe, while delicious and a classic dessert, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients are sugar and egg whites, which are high in calories and sugar content. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay. Additionally, this recipe lacks any significant nutritional value, as it does not include any fruits, vegetables, whole grains, or other nutrient-dense ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the recipe. Experiment with using natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract to lower the calorie and sugar content.
Incorporate some healthy ingredients into the meringue mixture, such as finely ground nuts (almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts) or unsweetened cocoa powder. These additions will provide some beneficial nutrients and fiber.
Serve the meringue cookies with fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced peaches, to add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dessert.
Limit portion sizes and enjoy these cookies as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack.

Editor's Opinion on the Delightful Meringue Cookies

The meringue cookies recipe you provided is a classic and timeless treat. The technique of processing the sugar to a fine texture and slowly incorporating it into the egg whites will result in a delicate and crisp cookie. The addition of vanilla extract adds a lovely flavor to the meringue. However, it's important to ensure that the meringue is piped into consistent shapes to ensure even baking. Overall, this recipe promises to yield delightful meringue cookies that are perfect for any occasion.

Enhance Your Meringues Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Create a refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits and a drizzle of honey-lime dressing for a light and fruity side to accompany the meringue cookies.

Grilled Pineapple: Grill slices of pineapple and serve them with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a tropical twist to complement the meringue cookies.

Chocolate Fondue: Indulge in a decadent chocolate fondue with an assortment of dippable treats like strawberries, marshmallows, and pretzels for a rich and satisfying pairing with the meringue cookies.

Delightful Alternatives to Meringue Cookies

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy texture makes this soup a crowd-pleaser.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and tender chicken makes this recipe a winner.

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: This fresh fruit salad with honey-lime dressing is a refreshing and vibrant dish that is perfect for a light and healthy dessert. The combination of seasonal fruits and zesty dressing makes this salad a delightful treat.

Classic Beef Stew: This classic beef stew is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a chilly evening. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth makes this stew a satisfying meal.

Chocolate Lava Cake: This chocolate lava cake is a decadent and indulgent dessert that is perfect for a special occasion. The combination of rich chocolate and gooey center makes this cake a showstopper.

Ideal Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Meringue Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with these delicious bruschetta bites. Toasted baguette slices topped with a fresh and vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. A crowd-pleasing starter for any gathering.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: As a culinary chef, I recommend a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. This classic Italian main course is sure to satisfy any craving for comfort food.

Beef Stroganoff: For a hearty and comforting main course, I suggest a savory beef stroganoff. This dish features tender strips of beef cooked in a creamy mushroom sauce, served over a bed of buttery egg noodles. It's a timeless favorite that never fails to impress.

Why trust this Meringues Cookies Recipe:

This meringue cookies recipe is a tried and tested classic, ensuring a delightful sweet treat for any occasion. With carefully measured sugar and egg whites, this recipe guarantees a perfect balance of sweetness and fluffiness. The addition of vanilla extract enhances the cookies' flavor, while the use of cream of tartar and salt ensures stability and texture. The step-by-step instructions provide a foolproof method for creating these delicate meringue cookies, making it a trustworthy choice for both novice and experienced bakers.

Want to share your experience making these delightful meringue cookies or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum and let's talk about these delicate and delicious treats!

FAQ:

How do I know when the meringue cookies are done baking?

The meringue cookies are done baking when they are dry to the touch and have a crisp exterior. They should not be browned. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cookies inside to cool and dry out further.

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer. It may take a bit longer, but it will still achieve the desired consistency for the meringue.

Can I add flavorings or colors to the meringue cookies?

Yes, you can add flavorings such as almond or peppermint extract, or even food coloring to the meringue mixture to customize the flavor and appearance of the cookies.

How should I store the meringue cookies after baking?

Store the meringue cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing them in a humid environment, as they can become sticky and lose their crispness.

Can I make the meringue cookies in advance?

Yes, you can make the meringue cookies in advance. Once they are completely cooled and dried, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.