Light, airy, and wonderfully crisp, Christmas meringue cookies are a festive treat that melt in your mouth. With a hint of vanilla and colorful sprinkles, they’re a delightful addition to holiday celebrations or a thoughtful gift for loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how simple yet elegant these cookies are. They’re made with just a few ingredients, making them budget-friendly and accessible. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture is irresistible, and their customizable shapes and decorations make them a creative addition to holiday festivities. Whether for a party platter or wrapped up as gifts, they’re a hit every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 large egg whites (at room temperature)
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Pinch of salt
Red and green sprinkles (or festive nonpareils)
Directions
Preheat and Prep:
Preheat the oven to 200°F (95°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Whip the Egg Whites:
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites and salt with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until foamy (about 1-2 minutes). Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
Add Sugar Gradually:
Slowly add the granulated sugar, about 1 tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Beat on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Add Vanilla:
Gently fold in the vanilla extract using a spatula.
Shape the Meringues:
Spoon or pipe the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small, round mounds or festive shapes. Decorate with red and green sprinkles.
Bake:
Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the meringues are dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment. Turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside to cool completely for 1-2 hours, or overnight.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once completely cool, the meringues are ready to serve or package as gifts.
Servings and Timing
Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 1 1/2 to 2 hours
Cooling Time: 1-2 hours (or overnight)
Variations
Flavored Meringues: Substitute vanilla extract with almond, peppermint, or citrus zest for a new flavor.
Colorful Swirls: Add a few drops of food coloring to the meringue before shaping for a colorful touch.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once baked and cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for added richness.
Storage/Reheating
Store meringue cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Avoid storing them in humid environments, as moisture will make them soft. These cookies do not require reheating, but you can leave them out at room temperature if they lose some crispness.
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FAQs
How can I prevent my meringue from deflating?
Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease, as even a small amount of fat can affect the meringue’s structure. Also, add sugar gradually and avoid over-mixing.
Can I make meringue cookies without cream of tartar?
Yes, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar. It helps stabilize the egg whites but isn’t mandatory.
How do I know when my meringue cookies are done?
The cookies should be dry to the touch and lift easily off the parchment paper without sticking. If they feel soft or tacky, bake them a bit longer.
Can I freeze meringue cookies?
Yes, meringue cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
What’s the best way to gift meringue cookies?
Pack them in a decorative tin or clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. Be sure to store them in a dry, cool place to maintain their texture.
Conclusion
Christmas meringue cookies are a beautiful, light, and crisp addition to your holiday table. Their simple ingredients, delicate texture, and festive decorations make them a favorite for celebrations and gifting. Try different variations to make them your own, and enjoy sharing these sweet treats with family and friends.
📖 Recipe:
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Christmas Meringue Cookies
- Total Time: 3-4 hours (including cooling)
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Light, airy, and crisp, Christmas meringue cookies are a festive holiday treat that melt in your mouth. With a hint of vanilla and colorful sprinkles, they’re perfect for celebrations or gifting.
Ingredients
4 large egg whites (at room temperature)
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Pinch of salt
Red and green sprinkles (or festive nonpareils)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 200°F (95°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Whip the Egg Whites: Beat egg whites and salt on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Add Sugar Gradually: Slowly add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Add Vanilla: Gently fold in vanilla extract.
- Shape the Meringues: Pipe or spoon meringue onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds or shapes. Decorate with sprinkles.
- Bake: Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until meringues are dry to the touch. Turn off the oven and cool completely inside for 1-2 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Once cool, serve immediately or package for gifts.
Notes
Ensure the mixing bowl and beaters are grease-free for the best meringue texture.
For variations, experiment with different extracts, food coloring, or toppings like chocolate drizzle.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 1/2 to 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 24 cookies
