Description
Light, crisp, and refreshingly minty, Peppermint Meringues are the perfect holiday cookies. Made with whipped egg whites, sugar, and crushed candy canes, they deliver a festive crunch and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. These gluten-free, low-calorie treats are easy to prepare and ideal for gifting or adding sparkle to any dessert table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 egg whites – provide the light, airy base for the meringue.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt – enhances flavor and stabilizes the egg whites.
- 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar – helps the egg whites hold stiff peaks.
- 1/2 cup white sugar – sweetens and adds structure to the meringue.
- 2 peppermint candy canes, crushed – give color, texture, and a festive minty flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 225°F (110°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or foil.
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites, salt, and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form and the mixture holds shape.
- Drop spoonfuls of the meringue onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy evenly over the top of each meringue.
- Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until the meringues are completely dry inside but not browned.
- Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly ajar, and let the meringues cool completely in the oven.
- Once cooled, carefully remove from the parchment and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Store Peppermint Meringues in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.
- Humidity can cause meringues to become sticky—avoid baking on humid days.
- Use room-temperature eggs for better volume and stability.
- For a colorful swirl effect, add a drop of red food coloring before piping or spooning.
- Dip bottoms in melted chocolate for an elegant flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 30 mins
- Category: Dessert, Holiday Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meringue
- Calories: 13
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 9mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Peppermint Meringues, holiday cookies, mint desserts, Christmas meringue cookies, easy meringue recipe, gluten free holiday treat