As the holiday season approaches, I find myself enchanted by the cozy smells of peppermint and vanilla that waft through my kitchen. This year, I decided to create a show-stopping treat that not only captures the spirit of the season but also adds a touch of whimsy to holiday gatherings: White Christmas Peppermint Meringues. These delightful little clouds of sweetness boast a crisp exterior with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior, all enhanced by a festive burst of peppermint flavor.
Imagine the joy on friends and family’s faces as they reach for these vibrant red-striped meringues, each bite offering a light and airy texture that charms both the young and young-at-heart. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple process, these meringues transform any occasion into a celebration. Perfect for gifting, decorating your holiday table, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Let’s whisk up some holiday magic together and bring a bit of sweetness to your festivities!
Why are White Christmas Peppermint Meringues irresistible?
Light, Ethereal Texture: These meringues offer a delightful contrast; crispy on the outside, yet wonderfully soft inside.
Festive Appeal: The vibrant red stripes and peppermint flavor make them a perfect holiday treat.
Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can shine.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: They’re perfect for parties—sure to catch everyone’s eye and taste!
Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in decorative boxes for a sweet holiday gift, a thoughtful gesture that friends will adore.
Transform your holiday gatherings with these charming meringues, and for more delightful recipes, check out my Holiday Baking Guide.
White Christmas Peppermint Meringues Ingredients
For the Meringue Base
- 4 large egg whites – Ensure they are at room temperature for better volume.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – This will create the sweet, crisp texture of the meringues.
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar – Helps stabilize the egg whites, giving your meringues that perfect structure.
For Flavor and Color
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract – Infuses a refreshing flavor, making your White Christmas Peppermint Meringues truly festive.
- Red gel food coloring – Just a few drops will create beautiful, vibrant swirls in your meringues.
With these simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delightful meringues that are sure to impress!
How to Make White Christmas Peppermint Meringues
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Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This is the perfect low temperature to create a delicate, airy texture!
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Beat the egg whites in a large mixing bowl on medium speed until they become foamy. Add the cream of tartar and keep beating until soft peaks form, indicating a good initial stage of your meringue!
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Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while increasing the mixer speed to high. Beat for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks—a sign of proper meringue readiness.
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Fold in the peppermint extract gently until just combined to keep that delightful fluffiness intact. You want all those peppermint vibes without losing the volume!
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Prepare your piping bag by fitting it with a star tip. Add a few drops of red gel food coloring along the inside for a festive striped effect as you pipe, ensuring each meringue has a lovely swirl.
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Spoon the meringue mixture into your prepared piping bag. Take your time; this meringue is delicate, and you want it to look beautiful!
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Pipe 1-inch meringue swirls directly onto the lined baking sheets, leaving some space between each to allow them to expand slightly during baking.
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Bake in the oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for when they feel dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper—a sign that they are done!
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Cool the meringues by turning off the oven and leaving them inside for 30-40 minutes. This step helps to prevent cracking!
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Store your cool meringues in an airtight container at room temperature, ensuring they stay crisp and delightful until you’re ready to enjoy them.
Optional: Serve with a hot cup of cocoa for a cozy treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze White Christmas Peppermint Meringues
Room Temperature: Store your meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain their crispness.
Fridge: Avoid refrigeration, as this can introduce moisture and ruin the delightful texture of your White Christmas Peppermint Meringues.
Freezer: If you want to freeze them, place them in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, and freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To bring back the crispiness after freezing, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
White Christmas Peppermint Meringues Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this recipe your own with delightful twists and substitutions!
- Vegan: Substitute egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). Whip until stiff peaks form for a cruelty-free treat.
- Flavor Fusion: Try adding vanilla extract or almond extract instead of peppermint for a unique flavor that surprises the palate. Choose one, or go half and half for an intriguing blend!
- Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate on top of your meringues for a deliciously decadent finish. This twist adds richness, making them irresistible!
- Nutty Crumble: Fold in finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for added texture and nutty flavor. Each bite will be a delightful surprise!
- Citrus Zing: Swap out the peppermint extract for fresh lemon or orange zest. The bright citrus notes will add a refreshing tang, perfect for a holiday spin.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the meringue mixture for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness beautifully. Just a touch can elevate your meringues!
- Seasonal Sprinkles: Top with colorful holiday-themed sprinkles before baking for added cheer and festivity. It’s an easy way to make your meringues truly festive.
- Mini Meringue Bites: Pipe smaller swirls to create mini meringue bites, perfect for snacking or sweet platters. These adorable morsels will delight everyone at the gathering!
Expert Tips for White Christmas Peppermint Meringues
- Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for maximum volume. Cold eggs can result in weaker meringues.
- Slow Sugar Addition: Add sugar gradually while beating. This allows the sugar to dissolve properly, resulting in stiff and glossy peaks for your meringues.
- Avoid Humidity: Meringues are sensitive to moisture, so avoid making them on a humid day. A dry environment helps achieve that perfect, crisp texture.
- Check for Doneness: Meringues should feel dry to the touch and lift easily off the parchment. Underdone meringues will collapse or be chewy.
- Store Correctly: Place your meringues in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp. Avoid refrigeration as it introduces moisture.
What to Serve with White Christmas Peppermint Meringues?
As you prepare to indulge in these festive delights, consider pairing them with equally enchanting treats and beverages to elevate your holiday gatherings.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A steaming mug adds warmth and rich flavors, perfectly balancing the light texture of meringues. Each sip enhances the minty notes, creating a cozy moment.
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Spiced Gingerbread Cookies: The sweetness and spices in gingerbread bring a delightful contrast to the meringues, making a festive cookie platter come alive with flavors.
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Cranberry Citrus Salad: The tartness of freshly sliced cranberries and the zest of citrus offer a refreshing contrast to the sweet meringues, cleansing the palate beautifully.
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Peppermint Bark: This treat mirrors the peppermint flavor in the meringues, creating a cohesive dessert experience that guests will adore, especially for a festive spread.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla serves as a cold, luscious companion; it’s a delightful way to counter the meringues’ crispness with a smooth finish.
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Eggnog: A classic holiday drink that pairs perfectly, the creamy, spiced goodness of eggnog complements the airy texture of the meringues beautifully, adding a festive cheer.
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Holiday Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries, apples, and grapes provide a juicy, refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall dessert table while adding colorful flair.
Let your festive spirit soar as you create a sweet holiday spread that celebrates the season!
Make Ahead Options
These White Christmas Peppermint Meringues are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the meringue mixture (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, allow the mixture to come to room temperature before piping and baking (steps 5-10). Make sure to cool them in the oven for the best texture and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This way, you can easily impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort while keeping everything just as delicious!
White Christmas Peppermint Meringues Recipe FAQs
What kind of egg whites should I use?
Absolutely, using large eggs is best! For the best results, make sure your egg whites are at room temperature. This allows them to whip up to a fuller volume, giving your meringues that perfect light and airy texture.
How do I store White Christmas Peppermint Meringues?
To keep your meringues fresh and delightful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. This ensures they maintain their crispness. Avoid refrigeration, as it can introduce moisture and negatively affect their texture.
Can I freeze White Christmas Peppermint Meringues?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the meringues in a single layer in an airtight container, separating each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes for the best texture.
What should I do if my meringues are chewy or collapsed?
If your meringues turn out chewy or collapsed, it might mean they were underdone or there was too much moisture during the process. Always ensure your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks and that your meringues feel dry to the touch before removing them from the oven. Properly cooling them in the oven for about 30-40 minutes helps avoid cracking or collapse.
Are White Christmas Peppermint Meringues safe for pets?
While the ingredients are not toxic to pets, it’s best to keep meringues away from dogs and cats. The sugar and peppermint extract might not sit well with their tummies. Always consult your veterinarian before sharing any treats with your furry friends.
Can I use other flavors instead of peppermint?
Very much! You can experiment with different extracts such as vanilla, almond, or even coffee for a unique twist on the classic meringue. Just keep the same measurement and enjoy the delightful variations!
Dreamy White Christmas Peppermint Meringues to Delight Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Beat the egg whites in a mixing bowl on medium speed until foamy, then add cream of tartar.
- Gradually add granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while increasing to high speed, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in peppermint extract gently until just combined.
- Prepare piping bag with star tip and add red gel food coloring along the inside.
- Spoon meringue mixture into piping bag.
- Pipe 1-inch meringue swirls on lined baking sheets, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes until dry to the touch.
- Cool the meringues in the oven for 30-40 minutes.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.