Mile High Meringue
Light and airy meringue with a crisp exterior and soft interior, perfect for a delicate dessert or topping, suited for those who enjoy sweet, fluffy treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg whites until stiff.
- Add 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon flavor, 2 1/2 tablespoons cold water, and 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar. Continue beating.
- Gradually add 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Spoon or pipe the meringue onto a baking sheet.
- Bake in a slow oven at 325°F (163°C) for 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease, as this can affect the meringue's ability to whip. If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar. Adding a pinch of cornstarch can help stabilize the meringue as well. This meringue is perfect for topping pies like Melinda's Coca Cola Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mile High Meringue as a delightful topping for pies or cakes, or enjoy it on its own as a light dessert. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For an easy meal, consider serving alongside dishes like Kids' English Muffin Pizza for a fun family dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meringue in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. If you need to reheat meringue, place it in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) for a few minutes to crisp it up again, avoiding high heat which can cause it to weep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mile High Meringue contains roughly 80 calories, with 1g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (33% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% 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
Why did my meringue collapse after baking?
A common reason for meringue collapse is overmixing, which can break down the structure. Make sure to beat until just stiff peaks form. Additionally, humidity can affect meringue; try baking on a dry day for the best results.
Can I make meringue ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meringue ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. However, it's best to bake it just before serving for optimal texture and taste. If stored properly, it can maintain its quality for about a day.
What can I do with leftover egg yolks?
Leftover egg yolks can be used in several ways; they make excellent bases for custards, sauces like hollandaise, or even added to carbonara dishes. Consider using them in recipes like Meredith's Potatoes for a rich flavor enhancement.
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).