Cherry Berries
Light and airy cherry berry meringues with a creamy filling, perfect for a sweet, elegant dessert that suits all occasions and impresses guests with its delicate texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Cover a baking sheet with heavy brown paper.
- Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy.
- Gradually beat in 1/4 cup sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until stiff and glossy.
- Spoon the meringue mixture into 5-inch circles on the prepared baking sheet.
- Use the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each meringue.
- Bake for 1 1/2 hours.
- Turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside for another hour.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool completely away from drafts.
- Fill with the cream cheese mixture and whipped cream before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a successful meringue, ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of any grease. If you're out of cream of tartar, you can substitute with lemon juice or white vinegar. When filling the meringues, consider adding a layer of fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flavor. These meringues are delicate, so handle them with care to avoid breaking.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Berries are best served immediately after filling to maintain the meringue's crisp texture. Pair them with fresh berries or a drizzle of berry sauce for added flavor. They also make a delightful dessert alongside a cup of coffee or tea, perfect for afternoon gatherings. For a festive touch, consider serving them as part of a dessert platter with Aunt Edna's Chocolate Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid refrigerating them, as humidity can cause them to become chewy. If you need to reheat, gently warm in a low oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Berries contains roughly 238 calories, with 9g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 make the meringues ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meringues a day in advance. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Just fill them with the cream cheese mixture and whipped cream right before serving to keep them crispy.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese. Both will provide a creamy texture, though the flavor will differ slightly. For a vegan alternative, use a cashew cream blended until smooth.
How can I tell when the meringues are done baking?
The meringues should be firm to the touch and should not feel sticky or soft. They should easily lift off the baking paper. If they are slightly golden, they may have been baked a bit too long, so keep an eye on them during the baking process.
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).