Forgotten Cookies (Meringue Drops)
Light and airy meringue cookies with chocolate bits, perfect for parties or as sweet treats for children and the elderly. Crisp, sweet, and customizable with colors and sizes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Beat egg whites and salt until very stiff.
- Beat in sugar until glossy and firm.
- Add food coloring, if desired.
- Fold in semi-sweet chocolate bits.
- Drop by teaspoons onto greased cookie sheets.
- Adjust size as desired; smaller cookies are suitable for children or nursing home patients.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease before beating the egg whites. If you want to add some color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid for better results. You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate bits with dark chocolate or even white chocolate, depending on your preference. Additionally, consider adding chopped nuts for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
These meringue drops make delightful treats for any occasion. They can be served alongside fresh fruit for a light dessert or paired with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat. Consider serving them with Shoney'S Chocolate Sauce for dipping, which adds a rich flavor. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter for parties or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meringue drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating them, as moisture can ruin their crisp texture. If you have any cookies that have softened, you can gently re-crisp them in a low oven at 200°F (93°C) for about 10 minutes, allowing them to cool completely before serving them again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Forgotten Cookies (Meringue Drops) contains roughly 24 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 501mg per serving (22% 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 a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer for this recipe?
Yes, a hand mixer works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just ensure you beat the egg whites until they reach stiff peaks, which may take a bit longer than with a stand mixer. A sturdy bowl and patience will help you achieve the desired texture.
What can I do if my meringue doesn't hold its shape?
If your meringue is not holding its shape, it could be due to under-beating the egg whites or too much moisture in the mixture. Make sure to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks, and ensure your utensils are completely dry. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can also help stabilize the meringue.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like chocolate bits, are labeled gluten-free. These meringue drops are a great option for those following gluten-free diets.
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).