Introduction
Christmas is a time for celebration, warmth, and of course, delicious treats! These delightful White Christmas Peppermint Meringues are sure to add a festive touch to your holiday gatherings. Light and airy with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, these sweet confections are flavored with a hint of peppermint and a dash of vanilla, making each bite a whimsical holiday joy. Whether you’re sharing them with family or leaving them out for Santa, these meringues are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Ingredients
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- Red food coloring (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 meringues
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to create a non-stick surface for your meringues.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become frothy and bubbly.
- Add the cream of tartar to the egg whites and continue beating until soft peaks start to form. This is the stage where your mixture will begin to thicken and take shape.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed. Keep mixing until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy and smooth.
- Carefully incorporate the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and salt into the meringue until everything is well blended.
- If you’d like to add a festive touch, now is the time to add a few drops of red food coloring. Gently fold it into the mixture for a lovely marbled effect.
- Next, fold in the crushed peppermint candies, adding a delightful crunch and burst of flavor to your meringues.
- Using a piping bag, pipe the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, creating small, neat rounds. Be sure to leave some space between each round as they will expand slightly during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meringues are dry to the touch and can easily lift off the parchment paper.
- Once done, turn off the oven and allow the meringues to cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This will help them dry out even more, ensuring they are perfectly crisp.
Notes or Tips
- Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease, as even a little fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.
- For extra festive flair, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled meringues before serving.
- These meringues can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. However, they are best enjoyed fresh!
Cooking Techniques
Creating meringues may seem challenging, but with a little patience and attention to detail, you can master this technique. The key to a successful meringue is beating the egg whites to the right texture, so keep an eye on them as you mix — soft peaks indicate you’re on the right track! Folding in the flavorings and the crushed peppermint candies gently will ensure you maintain that fluffy texture, resulting in a delightful treat.
FAQ
- Can I use egg whites from a carton? Yes, egg whites from a carton can work well, just make sure they are 100% egg whites and follow the same measurement.
- What can I substitute for peppermint extract? If peppermint extract is unavailable, you can substitute it with mint extract or simply omit it for a vanilla-flavored meringue.
- How can I tell if the meringues are done? The meringues should feel dry and should easily lift off the parchment paper. You can also tap them lightly to check for a firm texture.
Conclusion
These White Christmas Peppermint Meringues bring the spirit of the holidays right into your kitchen. With their light, airy texture and festive pep, they make beautiful additions to any dessert table. Whether you’re indulging in them yourself or sharing with friends and family, these delightful meringues are sure to spread cheer this holiday season. Happy baking!