Meringue Kisses: A Delightfully Light Dessert Recipe
Meringue kisses are a whimsical addition to any dessert table, known for their airy texture and sweet flavor. This recipe not only delivers a delightful treat that melts in your mouth but also boasts a low-fat and low-calorie profile, making it a guilt-free indulgence for those mindful of their dietary choices. Whether you’re preparing for a large gathering or simply treating yourself to a sweet snack, these meringue kisses are sure to impress with their delicate appearance and delightful taste. Follow this detailed guide to create your very own meringue kisses that are perfect for any occasion!
Recipe Overview
| Name | Meringue Kisses |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Description | Easy to make, low in fat and calories, healthy and delicious. Ensure not to overbeat the egg whites for perfect meringue. |
| Recipe Category | Drop Cookies |
| Servings | 60 meringue kisses |
| Calories | 8.4 per serving |
Keywords
- Dessert
- Cookie & Brownie
- Low Cholesterol
- Healthy
- Sweet
- For Large Groups
- Oven
- Less than 4 Hours
- Inexpensive
Ingredients
To create these delightful meringue kisses, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated Sugar | 4 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cream of Tartar | 1 teaspoon |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Egg Whites | 4 large |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 8.4 |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 13.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 1.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 0.9 g |
| Protein | 0.3 g |
Instructions
The process of making meringue kisses is straightforward, yet attention to detail is key to achieving the perfect texture. Follow these steps to create your meringue kisses:
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Prepare the Flour Mixture: Begin by sifting together the flour and two tablespoons of granulated sugar in a bowl. This step ensures that the ingredients are well combined and helps achieve a lighter texture in the final product. Set this mixture aside for later use.
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Beat the Egg Whites: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the egg whites with the salt and cream of tartar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it forms stiff peaks. This is a crucial step; be cautious not to overbeat the egg whites as this can lead to a dry and crumbly texture. If you do overbeat, the meringues may resemble unfolded fortune cookies.
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Incorporate Sugar Gradually: Once the egg whites have reached stiff peaks, gradually add in the remaining two tablespoons of granulated sugar. Continue beating until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is glossy and smooth.
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Combine with Flour Mixture: Carefully fold the reserved flour mixture into the egg white mixture. Use a spatula and gentle folding motions to incorporate the flour without deflating the meringue. It’s essential to maintain the airiness of the egg whites for the perfect meringue texture.
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Add Vanilla Extract: Finally, fold in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Again, be gentle in this step to preserve the volume of the meringue.
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Prepare the Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Line two baking sheets with aluminum foil, ensuring they are smooth and free from wrinkles to help the meringue kisses bake evenly.
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Drop the Meringue: Using a teaspoon, drop the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about half an inch apart. This spacing allows for proper air circulation and prevents the meringues from merging during baking.
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Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the meringues for approximately 45 minutes, or until they are crisp and lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they do not brown too much, as the goal is to achieve a delicate, pale color.
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Cool and Remove: Once baked, remove the meringue kisses from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. After they have cooled slightly, carefully peel the meringues from the foil and transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This step helps them achieve a crisp texture.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once fully cooled, your meringue kisses are ready to be enjoyed. They can be served as is, or used as a delightful topping for desserts like ice cream or cakes. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crisp.
Tips for Success
- Egg Whites: Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free from any grease or egg yolk, as even a small amount can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.
- Avoid Humidity: Meringues are best made on a dry day, as humidity can affect their ability to form stiff peaks and can make them sticky.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavor extracts such as almond or peppermint to add a unique twist to your meringue kisses.
Creating these meringue kisses not only brings joy to those who indulge in them but also offers a delightful baking experience that is both rewarding and delicious. With the right technique and attention to detail, you’ll have a batch of meringue kisses that are sure to impress family and friends alike, making them a perfect addition to any gathering or a lovely treat for yourself. Enjoy the light, sweet crunch of these delightful meringue kisses, and don’t be surprised when they disappear quickly from the dessert table!
