Peppermint Meringues
Light and airy peppermint meringues with a crisp texture and festive peppermint flavor, perfect for holiday treats or a sweet, minty dessert. Suitable for all occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites until foamy.
- Sprinkle with salt and cream of tartar; beat until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form, about 7 minutes.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased foil or paper-lined baking sheets.
- Sprinkle with the crushed peppermint candies.
- Bake at 225°F for 1 1/2 hours.
- Turn off heat; leave cookies in the oven with the door ajar for at least 1 hour or until cool.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from any grease, as this can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar. Crushing the peppermint candy canes in a bag with a rolling pin can help achieve an even texture. Consider using these meringues as a light topping for desserts like Bubba'S Buttermilk Pie.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful peppermint meringues make a charming addition to holiday dessert platters or as a light snack. They pair beautifully with hot cocoa or coffee, providing a sweet and minty contrast. For a festive touch, serve them alongside other treats like Deluxe Peach Ice Cream or as decoration atop a holiday cake. Their airy texture complements richer desserts perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peppermint meringues in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp. Avoid refrigerating, as humidity can cause them to become chewy. If you have leftovers, they can last for up to two weeks when stored properly. To refresh any that may lose their crispness, briefly return them to a low oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppermint Meringues contains roughly 11 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of potassium (12% 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 meringues not form stiff peaks?
If your meringues did not form stiff peaks, it might be due to residual grease in your mixing bowl or on your beaters. Make sure everything is clean before starting. Additionally, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature, as this can help achieve better volume. If you added the sugar too quickly, it could also hinder the meringue's structure.
Can I use flavored extracts instead of peppermint?
Yes, you can definitely use other flavored extracts to customize your meringues! Vanilla, almond, or even chocolate extracts can provide a unique twist. Just be cautious with the quantity; start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste, as some extracts can be more potent than others.
How do I know when the meringues are done baking?
Meringues are done when they are dry to the touch and can be easily lifted off the baking sheet without sticking. They should be crisp on the outside. After baking, leaving them in the oven with the door ajar allows them to cool slowly, which helps prevent cracking and maintains their delicate texture.
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).