Introduction
There’s something magical about the holiday season, isn’t there? The air is crisp, and the spirit of celebration is heightened with cheerful gatherings and heartwarming dishes. Among the most delightful treats to grace your holiday table are these White Christmas Peppermint Meringues. Light as a feather and meltingly sweet, these meringues, infused with a refreshing hint of peppermint, bring a festive pop to any dessert spread. Their delicate structure and adorable swirls make them the perfect sweet bite to share with family and friends!
Ingredients
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
- Red food coloring (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 meringues
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to a gentle 200°F (93°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring your meringues won’t stick.
- In a large mixing bowl, introduce your egg whites. Using either a stand mixer or a handheld one, beat them on medium speed until they start to resemble a frothy cloud.
- Now, add the cream of tartar and a pinch of salt, continuing to beat until soft peaks start to form. This is where the magic begins!
- Slowly sprinkle in the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Increase your mixer’s speed to high, whipping until you achieve stiff, glossy peaks that stand proudly when the beaters are lifted.
- Gently fold in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. If you’re feeling festive, add a few drops of red food coloring, swirling it in to create lovely streaks.
- Transfer the beautiful meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe small meringue kisses onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one.
- To add an extra festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies generously on top of each meringue.
- Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they are completely dry and lift easily from the parchment.
- Once baked, turn off the oven and let the meringues rest inside with the door slightly ajar to cool completely, allowing their delightful crunch to set.
- After they’ve cooled, transfer your meringues to an airtight container until you’re ready to share these lovely treats!
Notes or Tips
For a fun twist, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled meringues for an added layer of flavor. Also, ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from any grease; this helps the egg whites reach their peak volume. Enjoy the process of creating these delightful confections!
Cooking Techniques
Whipping egg whites gets easier with practice! Remember to start with room temperature eggs, as they whip up more easily and yield a fluffier meringue. The gentle, low oven temperature is key to drying out the meringues nicely without browning them, ensuring that perfect white color we adore in these festive treats!
FAQ
Can I make these meringues ahead of time?
Absolutely! Meringues can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container.
What if my meringues are sticky after baking?
They may need a bit more time in the oven. They should be completely dry to the touch when they’re done.
Conclusion
Your holiday celebrations just got a little sweeter with these delightful White Christmas Peppermint Meringues. Light, airy, and oh-so-festive, they are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Enjoy the joy of sharing these homemade treats with loved ones, and watch their faces light up with every delightful bite!