Introduction
There’s something truly magical about holiday baking, and these White Christmas Peppermint Meringues are a delightful treat that adds a festive touch to any celebration. With their delicate, crisp exterior and clouds of airy sweetness, each bite appears to melt in your mouth, leaving behind a delightful burst of peppermint flavor. These whimsical confections are not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to make, making them the perfect addition to your holiday table or a charming gift for friends and family. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- 1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (optional for drizzling)
- Pinch of salt
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 24-30 meringues
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring a smooth release for your meringues.
- In a clean and dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become frothy and bubbly.
- Add the cream of tartar and increase the speed, beating until soft peaks form that gently curve when the beaters are lifted.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to whip on high speed. Beat until the mixture is glossy and forms stiff peaks that hold their shape.
- Carefully mix in the peppermint and vanilla extracts, and sprinkle in a pinch of salt for balance.
- Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies, stirring until evenly distributed throughout the meringue mixture.
- Using a piping bag or a simple spoon, dollop or pipe small peaks of meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 ½ hours, or until the meringues are completely dry and easily lift off the parchment paper.
- Once baked, turn off the oven and allow the meringues to cool inside with the door slightly ajar for an additional hour, enhancing their light and airy consistency.
- If desired, drizzle the cooled meringues with melted white chocolate for an extra layer of sweetness and let it set before serving.
Notes or Tips
For best results, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are free from any grease or fat, as this can hinder the whipping process. Room temperature egg whites create a fluffier meringue, so take them out of the fridge ahead of time. If you don’t have peppermint extract, almond or vanilla extract can be lovely alternatives. Enjoy these meringues as a light dessert or as a festive treat alongside your favorite hot cocoa!
Cooking Techniques
Meringue can seem intimidating, but with a bit of patience and practice, it becomes second nature. The key technique here is ensuring that the egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks, which gives meringues their signature height and lightness. Avoid any moisture when mixing, and remember to cool them gradually in the oven to prevent cracking. Drizzling with chocolate not only adds flavor but also makes for a stunning presentation!
FAQ
Can I make these meringues ahead of time?
No problem! Meringues store well in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead treat.
What can I do with leftover egg yolks?
Consider making custard, homemade mayonnaise, or even a lovely carbonara. Don’t let those yolks go to waste!
Conclusion
These White Christmas Peppermint Meringues are not just a treat; they embody the spirit of the holidays with their festive look and delightful flavor. Perfect for sharing or enjoying by yourself, they bring joy and sweetness to any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and let the holiday baking begin — your friends and family will be enchanted by these charming little clouds of bliss!