Meringue Peaches(Light Dessert)
Light and airy meringue topped with ripe peaches and walnuts, this dessert offers a harmonious blend of sweetness and crunch, perfect for a delightful summer treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine egg whites at room temperature in a large bowl and beat at high speed until foamy.
- Sprinkle salt, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract over the egg whites; continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, a tablespoon at a time, and mix in the cornstarch; beat until stiff peaks form.
- Place peach halves, cut side down, in six 10-ounce custard cups.
- Spread the meringue evenly over the peaches.
- Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top.
- Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfect meringue, ensure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from any grease. If you don't have cornstarch, you can substitute it with an equal amount of powdered sugar for a slightly different texture. Keep an eye on the meringue while baking to prevent it from over-browning, as every oven varies. This light dessert pairs beautifully with Butter Babies for a delightful finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meringue peaches warm, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. They also pair well with a refreshing side like Quick Pimento Salad to balance the sweetness. Consider serving them with a light herbal tea for a complete dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meringue peaches should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 2 days. If you need to reheat them, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, just until warmed through, to maintain the meringue's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meringue Peaches(Light Dessert) contains roughly 208 calories, with 2g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1193mg per serving (52% 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 make the meringue ahead of time?
While it's best to prepare meringue fresh for optimal texture, you can make it a few hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container until you're ready to use it. However, avoid storing it in the refrigerator as humidity can affect its structure.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use walnuts, you can substitute them with toasted coconut flakes or even leave them out entirely for a nut-free version. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also add a nice flavor without the nuts.
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Canned peaches can be used, but they should be well-drained to avoid excess moisture which can affect the meringue. Fresh ripe peaches yield the best flavor and texture, making them the preferred choice for this light dessert.
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).