Short Description
Light, airy, and delicately sweet, these peppermint meringues are the perfect holiday treat. With a crisp exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, they make an elegant addition to any festive dessert table. The refreshing hint of peppermint adds a seasonal twist, making them a favorite for winter celebrations.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With just a few ingredients, these meringues come together quickly.
- Festive and fun: Their red-and-white swirls make them a beautiful holiday treat.
- Light and airy: Perfect for those who enjoy a sweet treat without the heaviness.
- Great for gifting: Package them in a decorative tin for a homemade holiday gift.
- Naturally gluten-free: Ideal for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Egg whites
- Granulated sugar
- Peppermint extract
- Red gel food coloring
- Cream of tartar
- Salt
Directions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 225ยฐF (110ยฐC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Beat egg whites: In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar and salt until soft peaks form.
- Add sugar: Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Incorporate peppermint: Gently fold in the peppermint extract.
- Prepare piping bag: Use a piping bag with a star tip. Paint red gel food coloring in stripes along the inside of the bag.
- Pipe meringues: Pipe small mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake: Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meringues are dry to the touch.
- Cool completely: Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool inside with the door slightly open.
- Store: Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 30-40 meringues
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Cooling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: About 3.5 hours
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled meringues.
- Extra Peppermint Crunch: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before baking.
- Vanilla Twist: Substitute half of the peppermint extract with vanilla extract for a milder flavor.
- Different Colors: Use green food coloring instead of red for a fun alternative.
- Mini Meringues: Pipe smaller meringues for bite-sized treats.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- Reheating: Not recommended, as meringues are best enjoyed as-is.
FAQs
How do I know when my meringues are done baking?
They should be dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper. If they are sticky, they need more time.
Can I make meringues on a humid day?
Meringues can be tricky in humidity. Try using a dehumidifier or baking on a dry day for best results.
Why did my meringues turn out chewy?
They may not have baked long enough or were exposed to moisture after baking.
Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is preferred since liquid can alter the consistency of the meringue.
What is the purpose of cream of tartar?
It stabilizes the egg whites, helping them hold their shape.
Can I use a different extract flavor?
Yes! Try almond, vanilla, or citrus extracts for a twist.
How do I prevent cracks in my meringues?
Bake at a low temperature and allow them to cool slowly in the oven.
Can I make meringues without a piping bag?
Yes, you can use a spoon to drop dollops onto the baking sheet.
Do meringues need to be refrigerated?
No, they should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
How can I make my meringues extra glossy?
Beat the sugar in slowly and ensure the mixture reaches stiff, glossy peaks.
Conclusion
Peppermint meringues are a delightful, festive treat that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether youโre making them for a holiday party, as a homemade gift, or just to enjoy at home, they are sure to impress. Light, airy, and full of peppermint flavor, these meringues are a must-try for the season.
Print
Peppermint Meringues
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: About 30–40 meringues 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French / American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These peppermint meringues are crisp, airy, and melt in your mouth with a refreshing minty flavor. With a festive red swirl, they’re perfect for holiday gifting or a sweet treat any time of year!
Ingredients
- 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red gel food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven & prep baking sheetย โ Preheat your oven to 225ยฐF (110ยฐC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whip egg whitesย โ In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and continue to beat.
- Add sugar graduallyย โ Slowly add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed. Continue until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks.
- Add peppermint extractย โ Gently fold in the peppermint extract without deflating the meringue.
- Pipe the meringuesย โ If using red food coloring, paint thin stripes inside a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Fill with meringue and pipe small swirls onto the baking sheet.
- Bakeย โ Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meringues are dry and crisp. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let them cool inside.
- Enjoy or storeย โ Once fully cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Notes
- Room temperature egg whitesย whip better and create a fluffier meringue.
- Humidity affects meringuesย โ try making these on a dry day for best results.
- Storage tipย โ Keep in an airtight container to prevent them from getting chewy.
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