Delightful Peppermint Meringues: 5 Festive Treats

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Peppermint Meringues are a delightful treat, bringing lightness and a festive spirit to any holiday gathering. These light, crisp meringue cookies are not only a joy to eat but also a pleasure to make. With a refreshing peppermint flavor and a beautiful swirl of color, they are perfect for cookie trays, gifting, and seasonal celebrations. Let’s dive into this easy peppermint meringue dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Meringues

There are countless reasons to adore these Peppermint Meringues. First, they are incredibly light and airy, making them a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Second, they are versatile; you can create beautiful mint meringue treats suitable for any occasion. Third, they require minimal ingredients, making them an easy peppermint meringue dessert to whip up. Fourth, they are naturally gluten-free, which is perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Fifth, you can customize them with various toppings, such as crushed peppermint candies or chocolate drizzle. Finally, they are festive and visually appealing, making them a perfect addition to your holiday peppermint meringues recipe collection.

Ingredients for Peppermint Meringues

Gather these items:

4 large egg whites, room temperature
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, or superfine sugar
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
Red gel food coloring (optional)
Use caster sugar for finer texture
Add white chocolate drizzle after baking
Use green gel coloring for variation
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies before baking
Swap peppermint extract for vanilla extract

How to Make Peppermint Meringues Step-by-Step

Step 1: Ensure all bowls and tools are clean and dry. Separate eggs while cold, then let whites come to room temperature.
Step 2: Add egg whites and cream of tartar to a mixing bowl. Beat until frothy, then gradually add sugar. Increase speed to medium-high and whip to stiff, glossy peaks.
Step 3: Gently fold in peppermint extract. For candy cane stripes, draw lines of red gel coloring inside the piping bag before filling.
Step 4: Line baking sheets with parchment. Pipe small swirls, kisses, or rosettes using a star or round tip.
Step 5: Bake at 225°F (110°C) for 1½–2 hours until dry to the touch. Turn off the oven and cool inside for 45–60 minutes.

Pro Tips for the Best Peppermint Meringues

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your mixing bowl and utensils are completely grease-free for the best results.
For a more refined texture, consider using caster sugar.
Experiment with different colors using food gel to make vibrant holiday peppermint meringues.
These meringues can also be made vegan by using aquafaba instead of egg whites.
To achieve fluffy peppermint meringue frosting, add a bit of cornstarch to the mixture.

Best Ways to Serve Peppermint Meringues

There are several creative ways to enjoy your Peppermint Meringues. First, you can serve them as standalone mint-flavored meringue bites alongside a cup of hot cocoa. Second, they make delightful toppings for cakes, adding a festive touch to your holiday desserts. Lastly, consider creating a beautiful dessert platter, featuring chocolate-dipped peppermint meringues, for your next holiday gathering.

How to Store and Reheat Peppermint Meringues

To ensure your Peppermint Meringues maintain their texture, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to two weeks if stored properly. If you’re looking to enjoy them later, you can freeze them; just make sure to wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. There’s no need to reheat them; simply enjoy them as is!

Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Meringues

What’s the secret to perfect Peppermint Meringues?

The secret to perfect Peppermint Meringues lies in the egg whites. Ensure they are at room temperature and that your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry. This will help achieve that light and airy texture.

Can I make Peppermint Meringues ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make Peppermint Meringues a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crisp.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Peppermint Meringues?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your egg whites are free from yolk and that all utensils are grease-free. Additionally, don’t rush the baking process; they need time to dry out completely for the best results.

Variations of Peppermint Meringues You Can Try

There are plenty of fun variations to explore! Try swapping the peppermint extract with vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. You can also create chocolate-dipped peppermint meringues for a sweet twist. For a fun presentation, use green gel coloring to create festive swirls. Lastly, consider making a no-bake peppermint meringue dessert by layering them with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies. For more ideas, check out this delicious recipe.