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The Ultimate Guide to Classic, Easy Meringue Cookies (Perfectly Crisp and Light)

Close-up of several perfectly piped, creamy white meringue cookies resting on a white paper napkin.
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Create light, crisp, and airy Meringue Cookies using this simple French Meringue recipe. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are naturally gluten-free and perfect for holiday trays or as delicate sweet treats.

Ingredients

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  • 4 large egg whites, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a clean, grease-free bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine the egg whites and cream of tartar. Beat on medium speed until soft peaks form.
  3. Gradually add the granulated sugar, about one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the mixture on high speed. Wait about 30 seconds between each addition.
  4. Continue beating until the meringue is stiff, glossy, and holds firm peaks. When you rub a small amount between your fingers, it should feel smooth, not gritty. This takes about 8 to 10 minutes total.
  5. Beat in the vanilla extract and salt until just combined.
  6. Transfer the meringue to a large piping bag fitted with your desired tip (a star tip works well for classic shapes).
  7. Pipe small mounds or desired shapes onto the prepared baking sheets. For festive shapes like trees or snowmen, use a steady hand and pipe the base shape.
  8. Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the size of your cookies. The goal is to dry them out, not brown them.
  9. Turn off the oven, prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon, and allow the meringue cookies to cool completely inside the oven for at least 1 hour, or until the oven is completely cool. This step helps prevent cracking.
  10. Once cool, gently remove the cookies. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

  • Ensure your mixing bowl and whisk attachment are completely free of any grease or egg yolk; fat prevents the egg whites from whipping properly.
  • For colored meringues, add a few drops of gel food coloring during the last minute of beating.
  • If you want a slightly chewy center, reduce the baking time by 15 minutes.
  • These are naturally Gluten Free Cookies Recipe favorites.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishcraze.com/meringue-cookies-recipe-easy-crisp-light/