Heavenly Peppermint Meringue Cookies: Light, Fluffy, and Delicious!
Step into a winter wonderland of flavor with our Peppermint Meringue Cookies! These delicate treats are the perfect combination of light, airy meringue and refreshing peppermint flavor. Whether you’re looking for a festive addition to your holiday dessert spread or a delightful sweet treat any time of year, these peppermint meringue cookies are sure to impress. Join us as we dive into the magical world of meringue and create these heavenly cookies together!
Ingredients:
Refrigerated:
- 2 Egg whites, at room temperature
Baking & Spices:
- 1/8 tsp Salt
- 1/3 cup White sugar
Oils & Vinegars:
- 1/8 tsp Cider vinegar
Desserts:
- 3 Peppermint candy canes, crushed
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Prepare the Meringue:
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and salt on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually Add Sugar:
- With the mixer running, gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until stiff, glossy peaks form. This process may take several minutes, so be patient.
- Add Vinegar and Candy Canes:
- Gently fold in the cider vinegar and crushed peppermint candy canes until evenly distributed throughout the meringue mixture.
- Pipe the Cookies:
- Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip or simply spoon dollops of meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake Low and Slow:
- Bake the meringue cookies in the preheated oven for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until they are dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper.
- Cool Completely:
- Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the meringue cookies inside to cool completely with the oven door slightly ajar. This helps prevent them from collapsing.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooled, gently peel the meringue cookies off the parchment paper and serve immediately. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Room Temperature Egg Whites: For best results, use egg whites that are at room temperature. This helps them whip up to maximum volume.
- Crushed Candy Canes: Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed candy canes to suit your taste preferences. You can also substitute peppermint extract for a smoother texture.
- Color Variation: Add a few drops of red food coloring to the meringue mixture for a festive pink swirl effect.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the white sugar with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Omit the candy canes or use sugar-free peppermint candies to reduce the carb content.
- These meringue cookies are naturally low in carbs, making them a great option for keto-friendly desserts.
Low-Carb Version:
- Use a combination of almond flour and powdered erythritol instead of white sugar to reduce the carb content further.
- Crushed sugar-free peppermint candies or extract can be used to add flavor without the added carbs.
- Be mindful of portion sizes to stay within your daily carb limit while enjoying these low-carb meringue cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I make meringue cookies on a humid day? Meringue can be sensitive to humidity, so it’s best to avoid making meringue cookies on very humid days. If you must make them, try to work quickly and avoid opening the oven door too often while baking.
2. How long do meringue cookies last? Meringue cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Be sure to keep them in a cool, dry place away from moisture.
3. Can I freeze meringue cookies? Yes, meringue cookies can be frozen for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
4. Why did my meringue cookies collapse? Meringue cookies can collapse if they are undercooked or if they are exposed to moisture after baking. To prevent this, make sure to bake them until they are completely dry and cool them in the oven with the door slightly ajar.
Peppermint Meringue Cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to afternoon tea. With their light and airy texture and refreshing peppermint flavor, these cookies are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Plus, with keto and low-carb variations available, everyone can enjoy these delicious meringue cookies guilt-free. So whip up a batch today and indulge in the sweet, minty goodness of Peppermint Meringue Cookies!
