What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making homemade meringue is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. You’ll love how few ingredients are needed, just egg whites, sugar, and a pinch of salt. The fluffy, cloud-like texture is irresistible, making it a great topping for pies or a crunchy standalone treat. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends and family with your baking skills!
Recipe
Meringue is a light, airy, and sweet confection made from whipped egg whites and sugar. Perfect for topping pies, making cookies, or serving as a delicate dessert on its own.
Ingredients:
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar (optional, for stability)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 225°F (110°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy.
- Add the cream of tartar (if using) and continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed.
- Continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form and the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Gently fold in the vanilla extract (if using).
- Spoon or pipe the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meringues are crisp and dry.
- Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool inside for another hour.
Notes:
- Make certain no yolk mixes with the whites, as fat prevents proper whipping.
- Humidity can affect meringue texture; bake on a dry day if possible.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
Equipment:
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Piping bag (optional)
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Cuisine:
French
Serving:
Makes about 12 large meringues or 24 small ones.
Nutrition
Meringue is a light and airy dessert made primarily from egg whites and sugar. It’s low in calories but contains minimal nutrients due to its simple ingredients.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 piece, 15g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 25 |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
| Total Carbs | 6 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing homemade meringues with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries, as their natural sweetness complements the light, airy texture perfectly. You can also get creative by serving them with creamy desserts such as lemon curd or chocolate mousse for an indulgent treat. Experiment with combinations to find your favorite—it’s all about enjoying the process and making it your own!
Fruit Pairings
Fresh berries and citrus fruits are a match made in heaven for light, airy meringue—their bright, tangy flavors cut through the sweetness perfectly. I love pairing meringue with juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, as their natural tartness balances the delicate crunch. Citrus slices, like orange or grapefruit, add a revitalizing zing that feels like sunshine in every bite. For something tropical, try pineapple or mango chunks—they bring a hint of summer to the dessert. Even kiwi or passion fruit works wonders for a tangy twist. These fruits not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish look vibrant and inviting.
Dessert Combinations
When you’ve got a batch of light, fluffy meringue ready, it’s so much fun to think about what desserts to pair it with. I love layering it with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for an easy pavlova, or crumbling it over vanilla ice cream for a sweet crunch. Sometimes, I sandwich it between chocolate cookies for a twist on whoopie pies. Adding a dollop to lemon curd or custard tarts gives them an airy finish. You can even use it as a topping for hot cocoa or a fancy milkshake. The possibilities feel endless, and every combo feels like a treat!
