Description
Mini Peppermint Meringue Cookies are the perfect light and crispy holiday treat. With a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a refreshing peppermint flavor, these little meringue kisses make a festive addition to your dessert table. Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, they’re naturally gluten-free and beautifully swirled with red for a cheerful, seasonal touch. These meringue cookies are ideal for gifting or serving at Christmas parties and celebrations.
Ingredients
- 3 large egg whites, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red gel food coloring
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Beat the egg whites in a clean, grease-free bowl on medium speed until frothy.
- Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, increasing the speed to high. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form (around 5-7 minutes).
- Fold in peppermint extract gently, avoiding deflation of the meringue.
- Prepare the piping bag by streaking red gel food coloring inside with a paintbrush or toothpick. Fit with a star tip.
- Pipe small meringue cookies onto the baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meringues are dry and lift off easily from the parchment paper.
- Cool completely by turning off the oven and leaving the meringues inside with the oven door slightly ajar.
Notes
- For a chocolate variation, fold in finely grated chocolate for a delicious twist.
- Use green gel food coloring for a different holiday look.
- Dipped meringues: After cooling, dip the bottoms in melted chocolate for added indulgence.
- Meringues can be piped into different shapes, like kisses or wreaths, for added decoration.
- If the meringues become soft over time, re-crisp them by placing them back in a 200°F (93°C) oven for 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Category: Cookies, Holiday Treats, Meringue
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
