Peppermint Meringues

Delight in these Peppermint Meringues, the perfect holiday treat that brings a cheerful twist to any dessert table. These light and airy confections boast a crisp exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, infused with refreshing peppermint flavor. Topped with festive crushed candy canes, they are not only visually appealing but also versatile enough for various occasions, from holiday gatherings to cozy winter nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up these delightful treats.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of peppermint and vanilla creates a refreshing and nostalgic taste that’s perfect for the holiday season.
• Versatile Treats: Serve them as a standalone dessert or use them as decorative toppings for cakes and cupcakes.
• Make Ahead: These meringues store well in an airtight container, making them an excellent choice for preparing ahead of time.
• Light & Airy Texture: The unique texture of these meringues offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect peppermint meringues, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Piping bag with star tip
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: A powerful electric mixer helps achieve stiff peaks quickly, which is crucial for perfect meringue.
• Piping bag with star tip: This allows you to pipe beautiful shapes that enhance the presentation of your meringues.

Ingredients

For the Meringue

• 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For Garnish

• ½ cup crushed peppermint candies

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How to Make Peppermint Meringues

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add the cream of tartar and salt, then continue beating until soft peaks form.

Step 3: Add the Sugar

Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Increase the mixer speed to high and beat until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add Flavor

Gently fold in both vanilla and peppermint extracts. Be careful not to deflate the meringue during this step.

Step 5: Pipe the Meringues

Transfer the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe small mounds onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart for even baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the meringues in your preheated oven and bake for 90 minutes. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside to cool completely, which should take about 1-2 hours.

Step 7: Garnish

Once cooled, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive touch. Serve immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to a week. Enjoy your delightful Peppermint Meringues!

How to Serve Peppermint Meringues

Peppermint meringues are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their light and airy texture makes them perfect for both casual snacking and festive gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your peppermint meringue experience.

As a Standalone Treat

• Enjoy them plain for a simple yet satisfying dessert that highlights the refreshing peppermint flavor.

With Hot Chocolate

• Pair these meringues with a warm mug of hot chocolate for a cozy winter treat. The meringues can serve as a sweet topping that melts beautifully.

Crushed Over Ice Cream

• Crush the meringues and sprinkle them over vanilla or chocolate ice cream. This adds a delightful crunch and a burst of peppermint flavor to your dessert.

Included in Holiday Gift Baskets

• Package peppermint meringues in decorative boxes or jars as part of holiday gift baskets. They make charming, homemade gifts for friends and family.

On Festive Desserts

• Use peppermint meringues as an elegant garnish on cakes or cupcakes. Their vibrant color and festive look elevate any dessert presentation.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual meringues in clear bags tied with ribbons. These make lovely party favors for holiday events, adding a personal touch to your festivities.

How to Perfect Peppermint Meringues

Creating the perfect peppermint meringues requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use fresh egg whites: Fresh egg whites whip better, leading to fluffier meringues. Ensure they are at room temperature before whipping.
• Avoid any yolk: Even a tiny bit of egg yolk can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. Be careful when separating the eggs.
• Gradually add sugar: Introducing sugar gradually helps the sugar dissolve completely, resulting in glossy, stable peaks.
• Fold gently: When adding extracts, fold gently into the mixture to maintain the airiness of the whipped egg whites.
• Cool in the oven: Letting the meringues cool in the oven after baking helps prevent cracks and keeps them light and airy.
• Store correctly: Keep your peppermint meringues in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.

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Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Meringues

While peppermint meringues shine on their own, pairing them with other dishes can create a delightful spread. Here are some side dish ideas that complement these sweet treats beautifully.

1. Peppermint Bark: A festive combination of chocolate and crushed candies that pairs perfectly with your peppermint meringues.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate served alongside fresh fruits allows for dipping and creates a fun interactive dessert experience.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the meringues—consider using seasonal fruits like oranges and pomegranates.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy contrast to the airy texture of peppermint meringues, creating an indulgent treat duo.
5. Vanilla Pudding: A smooth vanilla pudding offers a comforting side dish that complements the crispness of the meringue cookies.
6. Coffee or Tea: Serving these desserts alongside warm beverages enhances their flavors and makes for a cozy dessert setting.
7. Mini Tarts: Fruit or chocolate mini tarts provide variety while remaining easy to manage alongside delicate peppermint treats.
8. Spiced Nuts: A mix of spiced nuts adds crunch and savory notes that balance well with sweet desserts like peppermint meringues.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making peppermint meringues can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using dirty equipment: Always ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean. Any grease or residue can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.
• Adding sugar too quickly: Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Adding it all at once can result in a less stable meringue.
• Not folding in extracts gently: When adding vanilla and peppermint extracts, fold them in carefully. Over-mixing can deflate the airy texture of the meringue.
• Skipping the cooling phase: Allow the meringues to cool in the oven after baking. This helps maintain their crisp exterior and prevents them from collapsing.
• Using old egg whites: Fresh egg whites whip better than older ones. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store peppermint meringues in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week if kept in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peppermint Meringues

• Place cooled meringues in an airtight freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Peppermint Meringues

• Oven: Preheat to 200°F (93°C) and warm for about 10 minutes to restore crispness.
• Microwave: Not recommended, as it may make them chewy rather than crispy.
• Stovetop: Again, not advisable; the heat could ruin their delicate texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Peppermint Meringues?

Peppermint meringues are light and airy cookies made primarily from whipped egg whites and sugar, with added peppermint flavoring for a refreshing twist.

How do I know when my meringue is ready?

Your meringue is ready when it forms stiff peaks that stand tall without drooping. The mixture should also appear glossy and smooth.

Can I use different extracts instead of peppermint?

Yes! While peppermint gives these meringues a festive flavor, you can experiment with other extracts like almond or vanilla for a different taste.

Why did my meringues crack during baking?

Cracking can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if they bake too quickly. Always bake them slowly at low temperatures for best results.

How long do Peppermint Meringues last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These peppermint meringues are not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. Their light texture makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of year. Feel free to customize them by adding different toppings or flavors to suit your taste!