Meringue cookies are light, airy treats that bring a touch of elegance to any dessert table. These Tree Meringue Cookies are not only delightful in taste but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. With their charming tree shape and festive colors, they can bring a festive spirit to your gatherings or simply satisfy your sweet tooth.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
Making Tree Meringue Cookies is a fun and creative way to enjoy baking. The recipe is straightforward and requires only a few basic ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. These cookies are light as air and melt in your mouth, making them a delightful treat for guests of all ages. Plus, they are versatile enough to decorate with sprinkles, making them perfect for holidays or special occasions.
How to make Tree Meringue Cookies
Ingredients :
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Green food coloring
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Decorative sprinkles (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 225°F (110°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until frothy.
- Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a few drops of green food coloring until you reach your desired shade.
- Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to pipe tree shapes onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 1-1.5 hours, until the meringue is dry and can easily be lifted off the parchment paper.
- Let them cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and adding decorative sprinkles if desired.
Tree Meringue Cookies
Light, airy meringue cookies shaped like trees, perfect for festive occasions and decorating.
- Total Time: 105 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Green food coloring
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Decorative sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 225°F (110°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until frothy.
- Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a few drops of green food coloring until you reach your desired shade.
- Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to pipe tree shapes onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 60-90 minutes, until the meringue is dry and can easily be lifted off the parchment paper.
- Let them cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and adding decorative sprinkles if desired.
Notes
For best results, use room temperature egg whites and ensure your equipment is clean and dry.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 30
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
How to serve Tree Meringue Cookies
Serve Tree Meringue Cookies as a light dessert after dinner or as a fun treat at parties. You can display them on a festive plate or even use them as a decoration on cakes or cupcakes. They are delightful on their own but can also be paired with a cup of tea or coffee.
How to store Tree Meringue Cookies
To store your Tree Meringue Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them crispy and fresh for several days. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the humidity can cause them to become soft.
Tips to make Tree Meringue Cookies
- Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and dry before whipping the egg whites. Any grease or moisture can affect the whipping process.
- For best results, use room temperature egg whites, as they whip better than cold ones.
- Experiment with different colors and decorations to create a variety of festive meringue shapes.
Variation
You can change the color of the meringue by using different food coloring shades. Additionally, you can mix in flavors such as almond or peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a fun twist.
For another Christmas tree shaped treats, check out these Christmas Tree Brownies.
FAQs
- Can I make these cookies without cream of tartar? Yes, you can omit the cream of tartar, but it helps stabilize the egg whites and create a better texture.
- How do I know when the meringue is done? The meringue is done when it is dry to the touch and can easily lift off the parchment paper without sticking.
- Can I freeze meringue cookies? Yes, you can freeze meringue cookies. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container, and they can last up to a month.
Conclusion
Tree Meringue Cookies are a delightful treat that is easy to make and fun to decorate. Their light, crispy texture and festive appearance make them a perfect addition to any celebration. Try making them for your next gathering and watch them disappear!
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