White Christmas Peppermint Meringues

White Christmas Peppermint Meringues are the perfect holiday treat—light as air, crisp on the outside, and melt-in-your-mouth on the inside. Flavored with a hint of peppermint and swirled with festive colors, these delicate meringues capture the joy of the season in every bite. Their cloud-like texture and elegant appearance make them a delightful addition to holiday dessert tables, gift boxes, or afternoon tea spreads.

These meringues are naturally gluten-free and require just a handful of ingredients, making them a simple yet impressive dessert to whip up during the busy holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or creating edible gifts for friends and family, these White Christmas Peppermint Meringues are guaranteed to spread holiday cheer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elegant Yet Simple: Despite their delicate appearance, meringues are easy to make with just a few ingredients.
Festive and Beautiful: Swirled with red or green stripes, these meringues add a stunning pop of color to any holiday display.
Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in decorative tins or cellophane bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Naturally Gluten-Free: A great dessert option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Customizable: Change the flavors or colors to suit any theme or occasion.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 36 meringues
Serving Size: 2 meringues

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 20 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 0.5g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Red gel food coloring
• Optional: crushed peppermint candies for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Fit a piping bag with a large star tip. If you don’t have a piping bag, a resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off works too.

Step 2: Whip the Meringue

1. In a clean, grease-free mixing bowl, combine the egg whites and cream of tartar. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat on medium speed until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to high and beat until the meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
3. Add the peppermint extract and mix until just combined.

Step 3: Add Color

1. Using a small brush or a toothpick, paint stripes of red gel food coloring inside the piping bag, starting at the tip and working upward.
2. Carefully spoon the meringue mixture into the prepared piping bag. The red stripes will create a festive swirl effect when the meringues are piped.

Step 4: Pipe the Meringues

1. Hold the piping bag upright and pipe small swirls or stars onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
2. If desired, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the meringues for extra flavor and texture.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

1. Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for 2 hours, or until they are crisp to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to maintain a consistent temperature.
2. Turn off the oven and allow the meringues to cool completely inside, about 1 hour. This ensures they dry out fully and remain crisp.

Step 6: Serve and Store

1. Once cooled, transfer the meringues to an airtight container for storage.
2. Serve them as a light dessert, pair them with hot cocoa, or package them for gifting!

Ingredient Background

Egg Whites

Egg whites are the foundation of meringue, providing structure and volume. Be sure they’re at room temperature for optimal whipping.

Granulated Sugar

Sugar stabilizes the meringue and adds sweetness. Adding it gradually ensures it dissolves completely, creating a smooth texture.

Cream of Tartar

This acidic ingredient helps stabilize the egg whites and prevents them from deflating during whipping.

Peppermint Extract

Peppermint extract gives these meringues their signature holiday flavor. Use pure extract for the best taste.

Technique Tips

Clean Bowl: Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease, as any residue can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.

Gradual Sugar Addition: Add the sugar slowly to avoid deflating the egg whites and to ensure a smooth, glossy meringue.

Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature egg whites whip more easily and achieve greater volume than cold ones.

Low and Slow Baking: Baking at a low temperature ensures the meringues dry out without browning or cracking.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Chocolate-Dipped Meringues: Once baked and cooled, dip the bottoms of the meringues in melted chocolate and let them set for an extra indulgent twist.

Layered Dessert: Use the meringues as a base or garnish for trifles or parfaits, layering them with whipped cream and berries.

Meringue Pops: Pipe the meringue onto lollipop sticks before baking for a fun, kid-friendly treat.

Mixed Colors: Create additional stripes inside the piping bag with green gel food coloring for a multi-colored swirl effect.

Additional Tips for Success

Don’t Overbeat: Be careful not to overbeat the egg whites, as this can cause them to break down and lose their structure.

Test for Doneness: Gently lift a meringue off the baking sheet. If it comes off cleanly and feels dry, it’s done.

Avoid Humidity: Meringues can absorb moisture from the air and become sticky, so avoid making them on a humid day.

Recipe Variations

Vanilla Meringues: Replace the peppermint extract with vanilla for a classic, versatile flavor.

Lemon Meringues: Add 1/2 teaspoon of lemon extract or zest for a citrusy twist.

Cocoa Meringues: Sift 1–2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the meringue mixture before piping for a chocolate flavor.

Spiced Meringues: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor.

Freezing and Storing

Storage: Store meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing: Place the baked and cooled meringues in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Re-Crisping: If the meringues lose their crispness, bake them at 200°F (95°C) for 10 minutes to restore their texture.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Reduced Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with natural sugar alternatives like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. These substitutes maintain the sweetness without spiking blood sugar levels, making the meringues a better option for those monitoring their sugar intake. To ensure the texture stays light and crisp, use powdered forms of these sweeteners, which dissolve more easily into the egg whites.

Natural Colors: For a more wholesome approach, skip artificial gel food coloring and opt for natural alternatives. Beet juice or powdered freeze-dried strawberries can provide vibrant red hues, while matcha powder or spirulina adds green tones. These natural options not only bring festive color but also add subtle flavor and nutrients to the meringues.

Add Fiber: Incorporating finely ground chia or flaxseeds into the meringue mixture adds a touch of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Use just a pinch to avoid altering the delicate texture of the meringues. For a fun twist, sprinkle seeds on top of the piped meringues before baking to create a unique finish.

Low-Calorie Flavors: Add a splash of natural vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor without additional calories. A hint of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, can also elevate the meringues while adding freshness and brightness to each bite.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Holiday Dessert Table: Display the meringues on a tiered platter lined with holiday-themed doilies or colorful napkins for a festive touch. Mix them with other sweets like shortbread cookies, chocolate bark, or peppermint fudge to create a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table. Add small fairy lights around the platter to make it sparkle and feel extra special.

Cookie Exchange: Pack the meringues carefully in decorative tins, using crinkled parchment paper or tissue paper to cushion them. Add a handwritten label or card with the recipe, making it a thoughtful and personal contribution to a cookie swap. A mix of red and green swirled meringues will make your package stand out.

Hot Cocoa Pairing: Serve the meringues in a bowl alongside a hot cocoa station featuring toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and chocolate shavings. Encourage guests to dunk the meringues into their hot cocoa for a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Gift Boxes: Include the meringues in holiday gift baskets along with other homemade treats like candied nuts, spiced tea blends, or mini loaves of fruitcake. Choose a clear gift box to showcase their beautiful swirls, and tie it with festive ribbons or twine for an elegant presentation.

Party Favors: For holiday parties or winter weddings, package individual meringues in clear cellophane bags tied with metallic ribbon. Attach a small thank-you tag for a personal touch that your guests will love.

Special Equipment

Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: A high-quality stand mixer or hand mixer is crucial for whipping the egg whites to stiff peaks. Stand mixers allow for hands-free operation, making it easier to gradually add the sugar, while hand mixers provide flexibility for smaller batches. Whichever you use, ensure the beaters are clean and grease-free for the best results.

Piping Bag and Star Tip: A piping bag fitted with a star tip gives the meringues their classic, swirled appearance. For a rustic look, you can use a round tip or even a spoon to dollop the meringue onto the baking sheets. Disposable piping bags are handy for easy cleanup, while reusable ones are eco-friendly.

Silicone Baking Mats: These mats are a fantastic alternative to parchment paper, providing a non-stick surface that ensures the meringues lift off cleanly after baking. They also help distribute heat evenly, reducing the risk of over-browning.

Kitchen Scale (Optional): For precision in measuring the sugar, a kitchen scale is invaluable. Accurate measurements ensure the meringue achieves the right texture and stability, especially when using sugar substitutes.

Toothpicks or Small Brushes: Use these tools to create clean, consistent color stripes inside your piping bag, ensuring beautiful, swirled designs in the finished meringues.

With these healthier options, creative serving ideas, and the right equipment, your White Christmas Peppermint Meringues will be a delightful and versatile treat to share and enjoy this holiday season!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why didn’t my egg whites whip properly?
   Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely grease-free and the egg whites are at room temperature.
2. Can I make these without cream of tartar?
   Yes, substitute with a few drops of lemon juice or white vinegar for similar stabilizing effects.
3. How do I prevent the meringues from cracking?
   Bake at a low temperature and avoid opening the oven door during baking.
4. Can I use liquid food coloring?
   Gel food coloring is recommended, as liquid food coloring can add too much moisture and affect the meringue’s consistency.
5. Why are my meringues sticky?
   Humidity can cause meringues to become sticky. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
6. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, but whip the egg whites in batches to ensure they reach the proper consistency.
7. How do I create perfect swirls?
   Apply even pressure to the piping bag and pipe slowly for consistent shapes.
8. Can I add other flavors?
   Absolutely! Try almond, vanilla, or citrus extracts for different variations.

Conclusion

White Christmas Peppermint Meringues are a festive and delightful treat that’s as light and airy as freshly fallen snow. Their crisp texture, refreshing peppermint flavor, and festive swirls make them a must-have for the holiday season. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or keeping a batch for yourself, these meringues are guaranteed to spread holiday cheer.

With just a few ingredients and a touch of creativity, you can create a stunning dessert that looks professional yet is surprisingly easy to make. Whip up a batch of these elegant treats and bring a little extra sweetness to your holiday celebrations!

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