Description
These delicate and sweet Valentine’s Day Meringue Kisses are light, crispy, and melt-in-your-mouth treats. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they are transformed into a festive treat with pink or red coloring, perfect for celebrating love. You can even decorate them with sprinkles for an extra touch of fun!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pink or red gel food coloring
- Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the Meringue:
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites using an electric mixer on medium speed until they become frothy.
- Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed. Keep beating until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.
- Add the vanilla extract and a few drops of pink or red gel food coloring. Mix gently to swirl the color into the meringue, creating a marbled effect (or fully incorporate for a solid color).
- Pipe the Meringues:
- Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip.
- Pipe small kisses (about 1 to 1.5 inches wide) onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- If desired, sprinkle with festive sprinkles for decoration.
- Bake the Meringues:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meringues are dry and crisp, with no soft spots. They should easily lift off the parchment paper without sticking.
- Once done, turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside with the door slightly ajar to cool completely. This helps them firm up and maintain their delicate texture.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooled, gently remove the meringue kisses from the baking sheet. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are completely free of any grease or moisture to ensure the meringue whips properly.
- If you prefer more vibrant colors, feel free to add additional food coloring, but remember to use gel food coloring to avoid altering the texture of the meringue.
- Meringue kisses can be made ahead of time and stored for up to a week in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American