Meringue Kisses are light, airy, and perfectly sweet treats that melt in your mouth. These delicate confections are made from just a few simple ingredients—egg whites, sugar, and a touch of flavoring—whipped into stiff peaks and baked until crisp. They’re an excellent choice for using up leftover egg whites, and you can easily add a pop of color or flavor to match any occasion. Meringue kisses are perfect for parties, gift boxes, or simply as a light dessert, and their whimsical, cloud-like texture makes them irresistible.
Meringue Kisses Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)
- Optional: food coloring, sprinkles, or cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Whip the egg whites: In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Add sugar gradually: Increase the mixer speed to high, and slowly add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Continue beating until the egg whites are glossy and stiff peaks form, meaning the meringue holds its shape when you lift the beater. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Color and shape the meringue (optional): If you’d like to add color, gently fold in a few drops of food coloring to the meringue, being careful not to deflate it. Spoon the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip or any tip of your choice. Pipe small mounds or “kisses” onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each.
- Bake: Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until they are dry and can easily be lifted off the parchment paper. They should remain white or pale in color, with no browning. Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar to help them dry out.
- Optional garnish: If desired, dust the meringue kisses with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder, or decorate with sprinkles before baking for a festive touch.
Store your meringue kisses in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These crisp, sweet bites are perfect for snacking or decorating cakes and desserts!
