Peppermint Meringues

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Are you a fan of airy, light, and melt-in-your-mouth treats? Look no further than peppermint meringues!

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Peppermint Meringues
Prep
3 hr 30 min
Cook
30 min
Total
3 hr 30 min
Servings
42

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F and position the oven racks in the top and bottom thirds. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

  2. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites and salt with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until foamy.

  3. Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form.

  4. While still beating, add the sugar 1 tablespoon at a time until stiff peaks form.

  5. Beat in the peppermint.

  6. Fold the top of a pastry bag fitted with a round tip over and down a few inches.

  7. Dip a paintbrush in the food coloring and brush a stroke of food coloring from the tip to the top of the bag, starting inside the pastry tip. Repeat with 3 more evenly spaced strokes.

  8. Fill the pastry bag with the meringue, trying to spoon it directly into the center to avoid smudging the food coloring (although some smudging is inevitable).

  9. Pipe 1-inch-diameter mounds of meringue onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart.

  10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meringues are no longer glossy and feel light and dry when picked up.

  11. Open the oven for a few minutes, then turn it off and shut the door. Leave the meringues in the oven for about 2 hours, or until they are completely dry

About this recipe

Are you a fan of airy, light, and melt-in-your-mouth treats? Look no further than peppermint meringues! These delightful little confections are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply craving a sweet treat. In this article, we'll explore the world of peppermint meringues, their irresistible texture, and how to make them yourself.

The Magic of Peppermint Meringues

Imagine biting into a fluffy cloud that instantly dissolves on your tongue, leaving behind a burst of refreshing peppermint flavor. That's the magic of peppermint meringues! These delicate cookies are made from egg whites and sugar, whipped together to create a light and airy mixture. The addition of peppermint extract adds a delightful twist, making them perfect for the holiday season.

Peppermint meringues are versatile treats that can be enjoyed on their own or used as a decorative element in other desserts. They can be crushed and sprinkled on top of hot chocolate, used to garnish a peppermint pie, or even sandwiched together with a layer of chocolate ganache for a decadent dessert. The possibilities are endless!

Making Peppermint Meringues

Creating these delicate cookies may seem intimidating, but with a few simple steps, you'll be able to whip up a batch of peppermint meringues in no time. The key is to start with room temperature egg whites and ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free of any grease. This will help create the perfect meringue texture.

First, beat the egg whites until they reach soft peaks. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Then, fold in a touch of peppermint extract to infuse the meringues with the refreshing flavor. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe small dollops onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the meringues at a low temperature for about an hour, until they are crisp and dry. Once they cool, they are ready to be enjoyed! The meringues can be stored in an airtight container for several days, making them a convenient treat to have on hand.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different flavor extract instead of peppermint?

While peppermint extract is traditional for peppermint meringues, you can experiment with other flavors such as vanilla or almond extract. Just be sure to adjust the quantity according to taste.

. How long do peppermint meringues last?

When stored in an airtight container, peppermint meringues can last for up to two weeks. However, they are best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal texture and flavor.

. Can I freeze peppermint meringues?

Yes, you can freeze peppermint meringues. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and store them for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

. Can I add food coloring to the meringue mixture?

Absolutely! Adding a few drops of food coloring can give your peppermint meringues a festive touch. Just be sure to use gel or powder food coloring, as liquid food coloring may affect the texture of the meringues.

. What can I do with leftover egg yolks?

Don't let those leftover egg yolks go to waste! You can use them to make custards, curds, or even homemade ice cream. Get creative and explore different recipes that make use of egg yolks.

. Can I make the meringues without a piping bag?

Yes, you can! While a piping bag makes it easier to achieve uniform shapes, you can use a spoon to drop dollops of the meringue mixture onto the baking sheet. The meringues may have a slightly different shape, but they will still taste delicious.

. Can I add crushed candy canes to the meringue mixture?

Absolutely! Adding crushed candy canes to the meringue mixture can give your peppermint meringues a delightful crunch and extra burst of peppermint flavor. Just be sure to crush the candy canes into small pieces before adding them to the mixture.

. Can I make the meringues ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can make the meringues ahead of time for a party. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. You can also prepare the meringue mixture in advance and bake them the day of the party for maximum convenience.

In conclusion, peppermint meringues are a delightful treat that brings a touch of lightness and refreshment to any occasion. With their airy texture and burst of peppermint flavor, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, why not give them a try and indulge in the magic of peppermint meringues?

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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