Sweet Meringue Candies are a delightful treat that will whisk you away to a world of sugary bliss! With just a handful of simple ingredients, these airy confections are whipped to perfection, creating a cloud-like texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of a few drops of lemon juice adds a zesty twist, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Whether you choose to pipe them into whimsical shapes or spoon them onto a baking sheet, the result is a colorful array of meringue magic. Bake them low and slow, and you’ll be rewarded with irresistible, crunchy bites that are simply enchanting!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
- Perfect for customizing with colors and flavors.
- Great for gifting or special occasions.
- Low in calories, making it a guilt-free treat!
Sweet Meringue Candies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 90–100°C (194–212°F). This low temperature is key for drying out the meringues.
- Step 2: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a few drops of lemon juice until firm peaks form. This will take a few minutes, so keep going!
- Step 3: Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat. Keep mixing until you achieve stiff peaks. Your meringue should be glossy and hold its shape.
- Step 4: If you want to add some fun color, use a toothpick to add food coloring and gently fold it in. Make it as vibrant as you like!
- Step 5: Using a piping bag or a spoon, dollop the meringue onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make them as big or small as you prefer!
- Step 6: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 1.5 hours. They should be dry and easily lifted off the parchment.
- Step 7: Once baked, let the meringues cool completely before serving. Enjoy your sweet creations!
Nutrient
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 25 |
| Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Carbs | 6g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 1mg |
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | French |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 90 minutes |
| Total Time | 105 minutes |
| Dietary | Gluten-free |
| Serves | 12 servings |
| Best Served | Cool and crisp, as a sweet treat! |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful Sweet Meringue Candies.
- 80g egg whites – (1/3 cup) for fluffy texture
- 80g powdered sugar – (2/3 cup) for sweetness
- a few drops of lemon juice – to stabilize and add a hint of flavor
- optional food coloring – to make them visually appealing
How to Make Sweet Meringue Candies
Get ready to whip up some delightful Sweet Meringue Candies! Follow these simple steps for a treat that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 90–100°C (194–212°F). This low temperature is key for drying out the meringues.
Step 2: Beat Egg Whites
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a few drops of lemon juice until firm peaks form. This will take a few minutes, so keep going!
Step 3: Add Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat. Keep mixing until you achieve stiff peaks. Your meringue should be glossy and hold its shape.
Step 4: Optional Coloring
If you want to add some fun color, use a toothpick to add food coloring and gently fold it in. Make it as vibrant as you like!
Step 5: Pipe or Spoon
Using a piping bag or a spoon, dollop the meringue onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make them as big or small as you prefer!
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 1.5 hours. They should be dry and easily lifted off the parchment.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Once baked, let the meringues cool completely before serving. Enjoy your sweet creations!
Pro Tips for Making Sweet Meringue Candies
- Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry for the best results.
- Whip the egg whites at room temperature for better volume.
- Be patient when adding sugar; gradual incorporation helps achieve a glossy finish.
- Experiment with flavors by adding extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist.
- Store meringue candies in an airtight container to keep them crisp and fresh.
How to Serve Sweet Meringue Candies
- Enjoy as a light snack with a cup of herbal tea.
- Use as a delightful topping for ice cream or yogurt.
- Pair with fresh berries for a refreshing dessert.
- Gift in a decorative box for a sweet surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store your Sweet Meringue Candies with ease:
Storing Leftovers
- Keep in an airtight container.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
- Consume within 1-2 weeks for best quality.
Freezing
- Place meringue candies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
- Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating
- No need to reheat; enjoy them at room temperature.
- If desired, briefly warm in a low oven to refresh texture.
- Keep an eye on them to avoid melting.
You can visit our breakfast, lunch, dinner and desserts recipes from here:
breakfast,
desserts,
dinner,
lunch
FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can I use liquid egg whites instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use liquid egg whites as a substitute for fresh egg whites. Just make sure to measure the equivalent amount needed for the recipe, which is about 80g or 1/3 cup. Liquid egg whites can be a convenient option and will work well for making meringue candies!
2. How do I know when the meringue is ready to bake?
The meringue is ready when it forms stiff peaks that hold their shape. You should be able to turn the bowl upside down without the meringue falling out. This indicates that the sugar has been fully incorporated and the mixture is stable enough for baking!
3. Can I add flavors to my meringue candies?
Absolutely! You can add various extracts like vanilla, almond, or peppermint to enhance the flavor of your meringue candies. Just a few drops will do, and be sure to mix it in after adding the sugar for an even distribution!
4. What should I do if my meringue is too runny?
If your meringue is too runny, it may be due to under-whipping the egg whites or not enough sugar. Make sure to whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks before gradually adding the sugar. If it still seems runny, you can try whipping it a bit longer!
5. How can I store leftover meringue candies?
Store your meringue candies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for several days, but be sure to keep them away from humidity, as moisture can make them sticky and lose their crisp texture!
6. Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
While powdered sugar is recommended for a smoother texture, you can use granulated sugar if you grind it into a fine powder first. This will help it dissolve better in the meringue and achieve the desired consistency!
7. What can I do if my meringue candies crack during baking?
Cracking can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if the meringue was not dried out properly. Make sure to bake at the recommended low temperature and allow them to cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes!
8. Can I make meringue candies in advance?
Yes, meringue candies can be made in advance and stored properly. Just ensure they are completely cooled and stored in an airtight container. They will maintain their texture and flavor for several days, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time!
Final Thoughts
Making Sweet Meringue Candies is a delightful adventure that brings back memories of sweet treats from childhood! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these light, airy confections that are sure to impress. So grab your mixing bowl, whip up some magic, and enjoy every bite of these irresistible delights. Happy baking!