Marguerites
Marguerites are delicate, nutty meringue cookies served on crisp crackers, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and crunch. Perfect for tea parties or special gatherings, these treats are light, airy, and flavored with vanilla and ground nuts, appealing to those who enjoy elegant, easy-to-make confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the egg white with a dash of salt until soft peaks form when beater is slowly withdrawn.
- Gradually beat in sugar thoroughly, one tablespoon at a time.
- Add vanilla and continue to beat until mixture is thick and glossy.
- Fold in coarsely ground nut meats.
- Drop a heaping teaspoonful of the meringue onto the center of each saltine cracker without spreading.
- Place cookie sheet on ungreased baking sheet and bake in a slow oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Allow to cool and recrisp before serving. The meringue will be soft or chewy, not crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the egg white is at room temperature before beating, as this helps achieve maximum volume. If you don’t have nut meats on hand, you can substitute with finely chopped nuts or even shredded zucchini for a twist. Watch the meringues closely while baking to prevent burning; they should be lightly browned.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful treats are perfect for serving at tea time or as a light dessert. Pair them with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a cozy experience. They also make a charming addition to a dessert platter alongside Swedish Kringle or other sweet bites, creating a diverse selection for guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Marguerites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If they become soft, you can briefly re-crisp them in a low oven set at 200°F (93°C) for about 5 minutes, monitoring closely to avoid over-baking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marguerites contains roughly 425 calories, with 12g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 840mg per serving (37% 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 different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for coarsely ground nut meats, feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Just ensure they are finely chopped to incorporate well into the meringue.
What can I do if my meringue isn't forming peaks?
If your meringue isn't forming soft peaks, ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease. Additionally, using room temperature egg whites can help improve volume. If necessary, add a pinch of cream of tartar to stabilize the mixture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meringue ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it's best to bake them fresh before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
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).