Introduction
There’s something undeniably magical about the holiday season, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of White Christmas Peppermint Meringues? These delightful treats are not only a feast for the eyes but also deliver a satisfying crunch that melts in your mouth. Flavored with a hint of peppermint and topped with crushed candies, they are sure to be a hit at your next festive gathering. Let’s spread some holiday cheer with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Red and green food coloring (optional)
- Crushed peppermint candies for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 meringues
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to a cozy 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to help those meringues lift off with ease.
- In a large mixing bowl, start by beating the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until they become foamy and light.
- Add the cream of tartar, and continue beating until soft peaks start to form, giving you that lovely fluffy texture.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, about a tablespoon at a time, while cranking up the mixer to high speed until you achieve stiff, glossy peaks that hold their shape.
- Gently fold in the vanilla and peppermint extracts, ensuring that the flavors are beautifully combined.
- If you want to jazz up your meringues with swirls of color, divide the mixture into two bowls and add food coloring to one. Use a spatula to create a lovely marbled effect.
- Transfer the meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a star tip, then pipe small meringue kisses onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
- Generously sprinkle the tops of each meringue with crushed peppermint candies for that extra festive touch.
- Pop your baking sheet in the oven and let the meringues bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, until they are dry and easily lift off the parchment paper.
- Once baked, turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside with the oven door slightly ajar—this will help them maintain their delightful crispness.
Notes or Tips
For the best results, make sure your mixing bowl and utensils are completely clean and free from grease. Any leftover fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. If you’re short on time, you can also skip the food coloring, as the meringues are just as charming in pure white! These meringues can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, though I doubt they will last that long once your friends and family get a taste!
Cooking Techniques
Creating perfect meringues requires a little patience and some technique. The key here is in the egg whites—they need to be whipped to the right peaks. For soft peaks, the mixture will hold its shape but will flop back over itself. For stiff peaks, the meringue should stand tall and proud when you pull the beater out. The long, low baking time at a low temperature ensures that your meringues dry out gradually, leading to that delightful crunchy exterior and soft, marshmallow-like center.
FAQ
Can I use egg whites from a carton?
Yes, using pasteurized egg whites from a carton is a great alternative if you want to avoid raw eggs, just be sure to measure the equivalent of 4 large egg whites.
What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
If peppermint extract isn’t available, feel free to substitute with vanilla or almond extract for a different yet delicious flavor.
Conclusion
With their charming appearance and delightful flavor, these White Christmas Peppermint Meringues are sure to add a tasty touch to your holiday celebrations. They make perfect gifts as well, packaged beautifully in a festive tin! So gather your ingredients, turn on some holiday music, and let the spirit of baking fill your home!