Angel Drops
Delicate meringue cookies studded with chopped nuts, offering a sweet, crunchy treat perfect for parties or as a light dessert for nut lovers and those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Add salt and vanilla, then fold in chopped nuts.
- Drop spoonfuls onto a foil-lined cookie sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F, then turn off and let stand overnight.
- If not completely dried, preheat oven again and dry further.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of any grease when beating the egg whites, as even a small amount can prevent them from reaching stiff peaks. You can use walnuts or pecans in place of chopped nuts for a different flavor. If your meringue doesn't dry properly, consider using the method for Special Cornstarch Meringue(For 3 Egg Whites) to troubleshoot.
Serving Suggestions
These Angel Drops make a delightful addition to any dessert platter and pair beautifully with Good Icing For Angel Cake. Serve them alongside coffee or tea for a sweet treat or offer them at parties as a light snack. They also work well as a topping for ice cream or as a garnish for fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture. Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can make them chewy. If you find they have softened, you can re-crisp them in a low oven for a few minutes, ensuring they maintain their delightful crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Angel Drops contains roughly 320 calories, with 2g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1761mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar in this recipe?
While you can use brown sugar, it will change the flavor and color of the Angel Drops. Brown sugar adds moisture, which may affect the texture. If you prefer the classic taste, stick with white sugar for the best results.
How can I tell if the egg whites are whipped enough?
Egg whites are ready when they form stiff peaks that hold their shape without collapsing. To test, lift the beaters out of the mixture; if the peaks stand upright and do not droop, you have achieved the right consistency.
What nuts work best in this recipe?
Chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans are excellent choices for this recipe. They add crunch and flavor. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, try using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar texture while keeping it allergy-friendly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).