As I watched the clouds of sugar-fueled meringue swirl in my mixing bowl, I knew I was onto something special. These Peppermint Meringues have become a holiday tradition in my kitchen, offering not only a fun, hands-on baking experience but also a delightful treat that’s surprisingly light. With a crispy exterior that gives way to a fluffy, dreamy center, they’re an enchanting addition to any festive spread. Plus, they come together quickly, making them perfect for those last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of peppermint and vanilla not only fills your home with delightful fragrances but also brings a cheerful touch to your dessert table. Ready to impress your family and friends with these carefree confections? Let’s dive into this meringue magic!
Why Are These Peppermint Meringues Irresistible?
Light, Airy Texture: The unique combination of whipped egg whites and sugar gives these meringues a delightful crunch.
Festive Flavor: A hint of peppermint combined with vanilla creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for any holiday gathering.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is great for beginner bakers and seasoned chefs alike.
Perfect for Sharing: Yielding around 24 pieces, these meringues are a crowd-pleaser—ideal for holiday parties, gift-giving, or cozy nights in.
Versatile Treats: Enjoy them on their own or as a whimsical topping for hot chocolate or ice cream. These Peppermint Meringues bring a magical touch to any dessert spread!
Peppermint Meringues Ingredients
• Ready to create some delightful meringues? Here’s what you need!
For the Meringue Base
- 3 large egg whites – Ensure they are at room temperature for better volume.
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar – This helps stabilize the egg whites for that perfect texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Just a pinch enhances the sweetness of the meringues.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Gradually adding sugar is key to achieving a glossy finish.
For Flavoring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor that beautifully complements the peppermint.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – The star of our Peppermint Meringues; don’t skimp on this!
For Topping
- Crushed peppermint candies – A festive touch that adds a delightful crunch on top.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Meringues
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This is the ideal temperature for slow-baking meringues that will become beautifully crisp. Make sure your baking sheet is flat and ready for the lovely Peppermint Meringues we’re about to create!
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
In a clean mixing bowl, combine your room-temperature egg whites with a pinch of salt. Beat them on medium speed until foamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This initial foaming stage is essential to build a good base for the meringue, setting the stage for those fluffy and airy Peppermint Meringues!
Step 3: Add Stabilizers
Once foamy, add the cream of tartar. Increase the mixer speed to high and continue beating until soft peaks begin to form. This process usually takes around 2-3 more minutes. You'll know it's ready when the peaks start to slightly droop, creating a perfect foundation for the sugar that’s about to follow.
Step 4: Incorporate Sugar Gradually
Now, it’s time to add the granulated sugar! With the mixer still on high, gradually add the sugar one tablespoon at a time, ensuring each addition dissolves before the next. Continue beating for about 5-7 minutes until you achieve stiff peaks and a glossy texture. Your meringue should now look shiny and hold its shape beautifully, just like the dreamy Peppermint Meringues!
Step 5: Flavor the Mixture
Gently fold in the vanilla and peppermint extracts into your whipped egg white mixture. Use a spatula to incorporate the ingredients without deflating the meringue. The hints of peppermint will infuse a festive flavor that makes these Peppermint Meringues remarkably irresistible, creating a perfect fusion of tastes!
Step 6: Pipe the Meringues
Transfer the luscious meringue into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe small mounds onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about an inch apart for even baking. This is where you can get creative with the shape—think beautiful swirls or lovely peaks that will entice the eyes!
Step 7: Bake the Meringues
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meringues for 90 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t brown—they should remain white and firm to the touch. The slow and low baking method yields the ideal texture, leading to those delightful Peppermint Meringues with a crisp exterior.
Step 8: Cool in the Oven
Once baked, turn off the oven, leaving the meringues inside to cool completely for about 1-2 hours. This step is crucial for perfecting the meringues’ texture, allowing them to dry out while retaining all that fantastic fluffiness inside. The gentle cooling will help you achieve a lovely finish.
Step 9: Decorate with Peppermint Candies
After the meringues have cooled, take them out of the oven and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies generously on top of each one. This not only adds a gorgeous finishing touch but enhances the peppermint flavor. Your Peppermint Meringues are now ready to charm everyone with their delightful taste and festive cheer!
What to Serve with Peppermint Meringues
Warm your heart and home with delightful pairings that elevate your Peppermint Meringues into an unforgettable festive spread.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich and velvety texture of hot chocolate pairs beautifully with the airy meringues, creating a cozy dessert experience. A dollop of whipped cream on top enhances this indulgence, making it irresistibly cozy.
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Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the crunchy sweetness of the meringues, providing a perfect contrast in flavors and textures. Together, they offer a playful, sweet symphony that melts in your mouth.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai add a warm, comforting note that complements the refreshing peppermint. The fusion of flavors makes for a unique dessert pairing that your guests will adore.
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Fruit Salad: A light, colorful fruit salad introduces a fresh zing that cuts through the sweetness of the meringues. The juicy fruits enhance the overall experience, providing a refreshing contrast while making your dessert table pop with color.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These decadent treats add a touch of luxury to your platter. The combination of chocolate and the crunchy meringue will leave you and your guests wanting more.
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Peppermint Tea: A soothing cup of peppermint tea ties all the flavors together, making your dessert feel harmonious and inviting. The gentle warmth of the tea enhances the subtle peppermint notes in the meringues.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Pairing these classic cookies with your Peppermint Meringues will create a nostalgic holiday treat. The spicy warmth of gingerbread complements the meringue’s lightness, resulting in a perfect marriage of flavors.
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Festive Fruit Punch: A sparkling fruit punch adds a celebratory flair, with its sweet and tangy notes beautifully balancing the meringues. This refreshing drink makes your dessert gathering even more joyous.
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Meringues
Room Temperature: Store your Peppermint Meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their crisp texture.
Fridge: If you prefer keeping them fresher for longer, you can place the meringues in the fridge, but they may lose their crispiness. Consume within 3 days for the best experience.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the meringues in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To restore their crispiness after freezing, simply place the meringues in a low oven (200°F/93°C) for about 10 minutes before serving.
Peppermint Meringues Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful swaps and twists that will make your Peppermint Meringues even more captivating!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate on top for a rich, indulgent complement to the peppermint flavor.
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Colorful Swirls: Add a few drops of food coloring to the meringue mixture before piping for a festive, colorful presentation that will impress your guests.
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Spicy Peppermint: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a warm, spicy kick that harmonizes beautifully with the coolness of peppermint.
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Nutty Flavor: For a crunch, fold in finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to the meringue before piping. The added texture will surprise and delight everyone!
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Flavor Alternatives: Swap out the peppermint extract for other flavors like almond or citrus zest to create a unique twist on the classic meringue.
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Coconut Flakes: Add a sprinkle of unsweetened shredded coconut to the tops before baking for a tropical flair that perfectly balances the sweetness.
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Creamy Centers: For a fun surprise, whip up some mascarpone cheese mixed with a little sugar and vanilla, and pipe a dollop into the center of each meringue for a creamy bite.
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Herbal Infusion: Try using a splash of lavender or rosemary extract for a sophisticated touch. These flavors offer a delightful contrast to the expected sweetness of peppermint.
Embrace these ideas to create uniquely delicious meringues that shine in both flavor and presentation! Pair these lovely treats with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. And don’t forget to check out our tips on how to store and freeze, so you can savor them a little longer!
Expert Tips for Peppermint Meringues
Perfect Egg Whites: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature, as this helps them whip to their fullest potential for airy Peppermint Meringues.
Avoiding Fat: Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from any grease. Even a small amount can prevent peaks from forming.
Slow Sugar Addition: Gradually add the sugar to the whipped egg whites. Rushing this step can lead to grainy meringues instead of the smooth, glossy finish you desire.
Cooling Time Matters: Don't skip the cooling phase! Allowing the meringues to sit in the oven helps them dry out, resulting in a perfect texture.
Creative Piping: Feel free to experiment with different shapes when piping! Swirling or creating peaks can add a lovely aesthetic to your Peppermint Meringues.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Meringues are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can whip the meringue mixture up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the egg whites are at room temperature for optimal volume. Simply follow the whipping and flavoring steps, then transfer the mixture into a piping bag and refrigerate it until you’re ready to pipe and bake. When you’re prepared to serve, pipe the mounds onto the baking sheet and bake them as directed. Leaving them to cool inside the oven will maintain their delightful texture. Just like freshly made, these Peppermint Meringues will still charm your guests, making your holiday gatherings a breeze!
Peppermint Meringues Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my egg whites are fresh enough for whipping?
Absolutely! To ensure your egg whites whip up nicely, they should be fresh and at room temperature. You can test their freshness by placing them in a bowl of water; if they sink and lay flat, they are good. If they stand upright or float, it’s best to discard them. Fresh egg whites yield more volume when whipped!
How should I store leftover meringues?
To keep your Peppermint Meringues fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you notice any signs of moisture, it’s time to enjoy them! Avoid refrigeration, as this may lead to a loss of that delightful crispiness.
Can I freeze Peppermint Meringues? How?
Very! To freeze your Peppermint Meringues for longer enjoyment, start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for about an hour until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper in between if needed. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to serve, simply place them in a low oven (200°F/93°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
What if my meringue mixture doesn’t form stiff peaks?
Don’t worry; it happens! If your meringue doesn’t reach stiff peaks, check for any traces of fat in your mixing bowl or utensils, as even a small amount can ruin the fluff. Make sure to beat the egg whites long enough and add sugar gradually. If they’re still soft, continue whipping until the mixture becomes glossy and holds its shape.
Can I make these meringues allergen-friendly?
The classic Peppermint Meringues are naturally gluten-free, but if you need to accommodate dairy allergies, rest assured, they contain no dairy. However, for those with egg allergies, this recipe may not be suitable. Instead, look for aquafaba meringue recipes, which use chickpea brine as a fantastic egg substitute.
Should I worry about the moisture in the air?
Absolutely! Humidity can affect meringue, making it hard to achieve that delightful crispiness. On particularly humid days, consider baking the meringues when the weather is dry. If you live in a humid environment, you might also want to use a little extra cream of tartar to stabilize the egg whites better.
Delicious Peppermint Meringues for Festive Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine egg whites and a pinch of salt. Beat on medium speed until foamy.
- Add cream of tartar and increase the mixer speed to high, beating until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time until stiff peaks are achieved.
- Gently fold in the vanilla and peppermint extracts into the whipped mixture.
- Transfer meringue to a piping bag and pipe small mounds onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for 90 minutes, ensuring they remain white and firm.
- Leave meringues in the oven to cool completely for about 1-2 hours.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of each meringue after cooling.
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