Meringues Or "Forgettums"
Meringues or Forget-me-nots are light, crispy treats with a sweet vanilla flavor, complemented by crunchy nuts, shredded coconut, and crispy Rice Krispies. These versatile confections are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth at parties or as a homemade gift, offering a delightful crunch and chewy texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Add a pinch of salt and gradually mix in the sugar.
- Stir in vanilla or coconut flavoring.
- Fold in the chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and Rice Krispies.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake at a low temperature (e.g., 250°F or 120°C) until dry and crisp, about 1-2 hours.
- Allow to cool completely before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, ensure your mixing bowl and utensils are completely clean and free of grease when beating the egg whites; this helps achieve maximum volume. If you prefer, you can substitute the chocolate chips with dark or white chocolate, or even dried fruit for a different flavor profile. To reduce sweetness, consider using fewer sugar or adding a teaspoon of lemon juice for a tangy contrast.
Serving Suggestions
These meringues make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a sweet contrast. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, consider serving them as part of a dessert platter that includes other snacks like Fried Mashed Potato Patties or Pizza Muffins.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can make them chewy. If they become soft, you can re-crisp them in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) for about 10-15 minutes, but watch closely to prevent browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meringues Or "Forgettums" contains roughly 844 calories, with 25g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2234mg per serving (97% 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 egg substitutes in this recipe?
While traditional meringues rely on egg whites for structure and texture, you can experiment with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan alternative. Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba per egg white, and whip it until stiff peaks form. The result may vary slightly, but it can be a great substitute.
What can I do if my meringue mixture is too runny?
If your meringue mixture is runny, it may be due to under-whipping the egg whites or the presence of grease. Ensure your bowl is clean, and whip the egg whites longer until stiff peaks form. If you've already added other ingredients, you may need to start over with new egg whites.
How can I prevent my meringues from cracking?
To minimize cracking, bake your meringues at a low temperature and avoid opening the oven door during baking. Let them cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to help prevent sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracking.
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).