French Meringues Recipe

Delicate and crisp, these French meringues are a delightful treat that melt in your mouth. Perfect for serving with tea, as a light snack, or as a lovely homemade gift.

Yield: About 30-40 small meringues

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 120g egg whites (from about 4 large eggs)

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add the cream of tartar, if using, to help stabilize the meringue.

3. Add Sugar Gradually: Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Increase the mixer speed to high and beat until the egg whites form stiff, glossy peaks. This process can take about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add Vanilla (Optional): Gently fold in the vanilla extract, if using.

5. Add Food Coloring (Optional): If you want to color your meringues, add a few drops of gel food coloring at this stage. Gel food coloring is recommended because it doesn't add extra moisture to the meringue, which could affect its texture. Fold the coloring gently until evenly distributed.

6. Pipe or Spoon the Meringue: Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip, or use two spoons to dollop the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each meringue.

7. Bake: Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are dry to the touch and can easily be lifted off the parchment paper.

8. Cool: Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracks.

9. Store: Once cooled, store the meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Tip: French meringues make a wonderful homemade gift. Package them in a decorative box or jar for a thoughtful and delicious present.

Double Ingredients:

• 240g egg whites (from about 8 large eggs)

• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)