Christmas Wreath Meringues

If you're looking for a last-minute holiday cookie, meringues are the way to go.  They're the most versatile and underrated cookie.  And they're incredibly easy to make.  And you probably already have all of the ingredients in your kitchen.  Just whip up egg whites (or meringue powder/water) with sugar and there you go.

You could even dye it and use different tips to make them into any design you want.  Just make sure you turn your oven off right before you put your cookies in and do not open the door for about 2 hours.  For best results, I'd suggest leaving them in the oven to dry out overnight.  In the spirit of Christmas, I affixed a star tip to a pastry bag and dyed my meringues green and made....

...pretty little wreaths!  With this design, I was actually able to make about 6 dozen cookies.  Meringue cookies are so light and sweet, I'm sure they'll please everyone on your Christmas list.  Merry Christmas everyone!

Meringues

Yield:  5 dozen

Prep Time:  20 min        
Bake Time: 2 - 3 hours or overnight

Ingredients

-                2 tbsp meringue powder

-                1/3 c water

-                ¾ c sugar

-                pinch salt

-                1 tsp vanilla extract

-                Food coloring (optional)

Preheat oven to 350F and line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat.

In a bowl, whip the meringue powder and water together until it becomes foamy and slightly stiff.  Add the sugar about ¼ c at a time and combine completely after each addition.  Whip on high speed until the meringue is stiff and glossy and add in the salt and the vanilla extract, whipping again to combine.  Add food coloring if desired. 

Attach desired tip on the end of a pastry bag and fill bag with meringue.  Pipe 2-in dollops onto baking sheet and place in the oven, turning it off immediately.  Allow to dry out in the oven for 2 to 3 hours or overnight. 

*Meringue powder and water can be substituted for 3 egg whites

Posted by Ali B at 1:58 PM