Italian Meringue

Italian Meringue is a glossy, stable meringue that can be used for piping, topping pies, or baking into light, crisp treats. These dry meringue treats are perfect for stirring into coffee or hot chocolate and making lovely homemade gifts!

Yields: About 2 ½ cups of meringue (or 50-60 small dry meringue kisses)

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes (plus drying time)

Total Time: 25 minutes (plus drying time)

Ingredients:

• 130g egg whites (approximately 4 large egg whites)

• 260g granulated sugar

• 70g water

• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or other flavourings (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the sugar syrup: Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar, then bring to a boil without stirring. Continue boiling until the syrup reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.

2. Whip the egg whites: While the syrup is boiling, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed. Whip until they form soft peaks.

3. Add the syrup: Once it reaches 240°F, carefully pour it in a slow, steady stream into the whipped egg whites while the mixer runs on medium-low speed. Avoid pouring the syrup directly onto the beaters to prevent splattering.

4. Whip to stiff peaks: After all the syrup has been added, increase the mixer speed to high and continue beating until the meringue forms stiff, glossy peaks and cools to room temperature. This should take about 7–10 minutes.

5. Add flavoring: Gently fold in vanilla or other desired flavorings once the meringue is cool.

6. Bake for dry meringue treats: Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Pipe or spoon small meringue kisses or shapes onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 2-3 hours or until the meringues are completely dry and crisp. Alternatively, use a dehydrator at 165°F (74°C) for about 3 hours.

Tips:

• Perfect gifts: Dry meringue treats are a wonderful addition to gift baskets ora thoughtful homemade gift.

• Drying time: Meringue kisses should be completely dry and crisp to store well. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

• Creative flavors: Try adding cocoa powder, instant coffee, or cinnamon to your meringue mixture for unique flavor variations.

• Serving suggestion: Stir dry meringue kisses into hot coffee or cocoa for a fun twist!