Description
Delightfully light and crispy peppermint meringues that combine the airy sweetness of whipped egg whites with the refreshing crunch of crushed candy canes. These festive treats are perfect for holiday celebrations or as a sweet, low-fat snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 large egg whites
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 peppermint candy canes, crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the egg whites: In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they start to become foamy. Add the salt and cream of tartar, then continue beating until soft peaks form, which means the egg whites hold a gentle peak when the beaters are lifted.
- Add sugar gradually: Slowly add the sugar while continuously beating the mixture. Continue to beat until stiff peaks form, meaning the egg whites are glossy and hold a firm peak that does not collapse, which should take about 7-8 minutes.
- Form meringues and add peppermint: Drop the meringue mixture by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets lined with foil. Evenly sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes over the tops of the meringues for a festive flavor and crunch.
- Bake the meringues: Place the baking sheets in a preheated oven at 225°F (107°C) and bake for 90 minutes. This slow baking process dries out the meringues and makes them crisp.
- Cool down in the oven: Once baking is complete, turn off the oven but leave the meringues inside with the oven door slightly ajar. Allow them to cool gradually for at least one hour, ensuring a perfect crisp texture without cracks.
- Store the meringues: After they have fully cooled, store the peppermint meringues in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crispy until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Crushed peppermint candy canes add a festive touch and a slight crunch, but you can omit or substitute with other crushed candies if preferred.
- Ensure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from grease for best egg white whipping results.
- Do not open the oven door during the initial baking phase to prevent drying disruptions.
- Storing meringues properly in an airtight container prevents moisture absorption that would make them soft.
- This recipe is naturally low in fat and calories.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peppermint meringues, holiday dessert, meringue cookies, peppermint candy, low fat dessert
