Colourful Peppermint Meringues: A Festive and Light Treat

These Colourful Peppermint Meringues are the perfect festive treat! Light, airy, and full of peppermint flavor, these meringues are a fun and easy way to brighten up any occasion. With a delightful red swirl from the food coloring, they’re as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds. Whether for holiday celebrations, gifting, or just as a light dessert, these meringues will surely impress.

Ingredients for Colourful Peppermint Meringues

• 3 egg whites

• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp pure peppermint extract

• 3/4 cup sugar

• Red food coloring (paste or gel)

Directions for Colourful Peppermint Meringues

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Set aside for later use.

2. Whip the Egg Whites

In a large bowl, combine egg whites, cream of tartar, salt, and peppermint extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks begin to form.

3. Add Sugar

Slowly add sugar—about 1 tablespoon at a time—while continuing to beat on high. Keep mixing until the meringue forms stiff peaks and is glossy.

4. Prepare the Piping Bag

Fit a large piping bag with a large star tip. Using a small, clean paintbrush, gently paint stripes of red food coloring on the inside of the piping bag from the tip upwards. This will create the beautiful red swirls when you pipe the meringues.

5. Pipe the Meringues

Carefully spoon the meringue mixture into the piping bag and pipe 2-inch stars onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

6. Bake

Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for 90 minutes, or until they feel dry and firm to the touch. You don’t want them to brown, just dry out completely.

7. Cool and Store

Once baked, slide the parchment paper off the cookie sheet and onto a wire rack to cool. Let them cool completely before removing from the parchment. Store the meringues in layers separated by waxed paper in an airtight container. These meringues can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love These Colourful Peppermint Meringues

These Colourful Peppermint Meringues are a delightful combination of light, airy texture and refreshing peppermint flavor. The gentle sweetness pairs perfectly with the crisp, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the meringue. The red stripes give these meringues a festive touch, making them ideal for holiday gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying a delicious, guilt-free treat.

Tips for Perfect Meringues

• Stiff Peaks: Make sure to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks—this helps give the meringues their signature light and airy texture.

• Food Coloring: Use gel or paste food coloring to avoid adding too much liquid to the meringue, which could affect the texture.

• Oven Temperature: Don’t rush the baking process. Bake at a low temperature to ensure the meringues dry out properly without browning.

• Storage: These meringues can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months and even frozen, making them a great make-ahead treat.

Final Thoughts on Colourful Peppermint Meringues

These Colourful Peppermint Meringues are a simple yet stunning treat that adds a splash of color and flavor to any occasion. Perfect for those who love light, airy desserts, these meringues combine the festive flavors of peppermint with a fun, swirled appearance. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday celebration or just want a sweet snack, these meringues will be a hit!