Meringue Cups
Meringue Cups are light, crispy shells filled with tangy lemon curd and topped with fresh strawberries, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and citrus flavor. Perfect for elegant desserts or special occasions, these treats are visually appealing and deliciously satisfying for guests and family alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C).
- Put egg whites and salt in the bowl of a mixer.
- Beat until foamy.
- Gradually add 1 1/4 cups of sugar until incorporated.
- Beat until the meringue is not grainy and forms stiff peaks.
- Fold in the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and vanilla into the meringue.
- Fill a pastry bag with the mixture and pipe onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour until the meringue cups are completely dry.
- Remove from the oven and transfer to a rack to cool.
- Fill each meringue cup with lemon curd and top with fresh strawberries.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use room temperature egg whites as they whip up better. If you don’t have superfine sugar, pulse granulated sugar in a food processor for a few seconds. Avoid any yolk in the egg whites, as this can prevent them from whipping properly. If you're looking for more ideas, try pairing these meringue cups with a creamy filling like those found in Creamy Cream Puffs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve meringue cups as a delightful dessert at your next gathering. They pair wonderfully with a light fruit salad or a scoop of sorbet. For an elegant touch, drizzle some raspberry sauce over the top. These meringue cups can also be enjoyed alongside other sweet treats like Raisin Cream Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Meringue cups can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating them, as humidity can cause them to become sticky. If you have leftover lemon curd, store it in the fridge for up to a week. Refill meringue cups just before serving to maintain their crisp texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meringue Cups contains roughly 86 calories, with 9g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 meringue cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can make meringue cups a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Just fill them with lemon curd and strawberries right before serving to keep them crispy.
Why did my meringue not form stiff peaks?
If your meringue didn’t form stiff peaks, it could be due to grease or moisture in the bowl or on the beaters. Ensure everything is clean and dry. Additionally, make sure you’re using fresh egg whites and beating them until they are glossy and firm.
Can I use other fruits for topping?
Absolutely! While strawberries are delicious, you can top your meringue cups with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced kiwi. Each will add a different flavor and color, making your dessert even more appealing.
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).