Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and these White Christmas Peppermint Meringues capture that essence flawlessly. Light, airy, and infused with the refreshing essence of peppermint, these delightful treats add a whimsical touch to your festive table. With their elegant white peaks and charming crunch, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends or even savoring all by yourself with a cup of hot cocoa. Let’s whip up a batch of these frosty confections and bring some holiday cheer to your home!
Ingredients
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- Red food coloring (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 meringues
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. The preparation is simple and the aroma will soon fill the air!
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become foamy and start to look lovely.
- Add the cream of tartar and keep beating until soft peaks begin to form; this is when the magic starts!
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while cranking up the speed to high. Beat until stiff peaks form and the mixture is lusciously glossy.
- Gently mix in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and salt until everything is well combined. Take a moment to enjoy that sweet peppermint aroma.
- If you want to add a festive touch, drop in a few drops of red food coloring and carefully fold it in to create a marbled effect, like swirling candy canes!
- Now, fold in the crushed peppermint candies for that delightful crunch and burst of flavor that everyone will love.
- Using a piping bag, pipe the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, creating small rounds with a little space between each one.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meringues are perfectly dry and can be lifted off the parchment paper with ease.
- Once baked, turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside with the door slightly ajar. This step ensures they maintain that airy texture!
Notes or Tips
- Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease for the best meringue results.
- For an even sweeter bite, sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top before baking.
- These meringues can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
Meringue is all about achieving that perfect consistency, so patience is key! When beating the egg whites, ensure they hold firm peaks but don’t overbeat, which can make them dry. Adding cream of tartar helps stabilize the egg whites, giving you that glorious structure. Folding in the crushed candies should be gentle; you want to keep the airiness of the meringue intact.
FAQ
- Can I use egg substitutes? While real egg whites are best for meringues, you can try aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan alternative.
- What’s the best way to store meringues? To maintain their crisp texture, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration!
- How can I tell when the meringues are done baking? They should be dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper. If they feel sticky, give them a little more time.
Conclusion
These White Christmas Peppermint Meringues are more than just a festive treat; they’re a delightful experience wrapped in a sweet, airy package. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as charming gifts, they’re sure to bring smiles and warm nostalgia. Bake a batch, share the love, and enjoy the sweet spirit of the season!