Name: Festive Peppermint Meringues for Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 230 min
Ingredients: 4 large egg whites (room temperature); 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (stabilizes egg whites); 1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances sweetness); 1 cup granulated sugar (provides sweetness); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds warm flavor); 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (for minty taste); Crushed peppermint candies (for topping)

As I unwrapped a fresh batch of crushed peppermint candies, the scent of sweet nostalgia wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to festive gatherings. These Peppermint Meringues are not just a delightful treat; they are a whimsical addition to your dessert repertoire that everyone will adore. With just a few simple ingredients, elevating your dessert game has never been easier. Plus, these airy confections are naturally low in calories and perfect for sharing during the holiday season or any cozy gathering. As you pipe those charming little mounds, I promise you’ll feel a wave of joy and satisfaction with each one. Ready to transform your kitchen into a minty wonderland? Let’s whip up some irresistible Peppermint Meringues together!

Why are Peppermint Meringues so delightful?

Light, Airy Texture: The meringues are incredibly light and melt-in-your-mouth, making them a perfect holiday treat.
Flavorful Twist: With both vanilla and peppermint, they offer a refreshing twist that elevates traditional meringues.
Easy to Make: You only need a handful of ingredients, and the process is simple enough for beginners!
Visual Appeal: Your dessert table will shine with these charming mounds topped with crushed peppermint candies, making them a feast for the eyes as well.
Perfect for Sharing: These Peppermint Meringues are a great way to spread joy during festive gatherings—everyone loves them! Try pairing them with a warm cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy experience.

Peppermint Meringues Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything we need for these charming treats!

For the Meringue
• 4 egg whites – room temperature egg whites whip up better for light, airy meringues.
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar – this helps stabilize the egg whites, giving them structure.
• ½ teaspoon salt – enhances the sweetness of the meringues and balances the flavors.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – provides sweetness and contributes to the glossy finish of the meringue.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a lovely, warm flavor to complement the peppermint.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – this gives your meringues their delightful minty taste.

For the Topping
• Crushed peppermint candies – sprinkle on top for a festive crunch and a pop of color!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Meringues

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to a gentle 200°F (93°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the meringues from sticking. This preparation sets the stage for your delightful Peppermint Meringues, ensuring they bake evenly and release easily once done.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Whites
In a clean mixing bowl, beat 4 room temperature egg whites on medium speed until they become foamy, which should take about 2 minutes. This initial whisking introduces air into the egg whites, creating the desired light texture for your meringues. Keep an eye on them as they transform, ready to progress to the next step.

Step 3: Add Stabilizers
Once the egg whites are foamy, add ¼ teaspoon of cream of tartar and ½ teaspoon of salt. Continue beating at medium speed until soft peaks start to form, which typically takes another 2-3 minutes. The cream of tartar helps stabilize the egg whites, essential for the structure of your Peppermint Meringues.

Step 4: Incorporate Sugar Gradually
Now, it's time to sweeten things up! Gradually add the 1 cup of granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while increasing your mixer speed to high. Beat the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, or until you see stiff peaks forming and the meringue looks glossy and smooth. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.

Step 5: Flavor the Mixture
Gently fold in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract using a spatula. This infuses your Peppermint Meringues with delightful flavors while keeping the batter airy. Be careful not to deflate the meringue as you incorporate these fragrant additions.

Step 6: Pipe the Meringues
Transfer the fluffy meringue into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. On your prepared baking sheet, pipe small mounds of meringue about an inch apart, creating charming shapes as you go. This is where your Peppermint Meringues start taking form, so have fun with it!

Step 7: Bake and Set
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meringues for 90 minutes. After this time, turn off the oven but leave the meringues inside to cool completely for about 1-2 hours. This cooling process ensures they become crisp on the outside while remaining soft inside.

Step 8: Add the Final Touch
Once your Peppermint Meringues are completely cool, take a moment to sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of each meringue. This adds a festive crunch and a pop of color, making them not only delicious but also visually appealing for your gatherings.

Expert Tips for Peppermint Meringues

Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature; this helps achieve a greater volume and a lighter texture in your Peppermint Meringues.
Avoid Grease: Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and grease-free. Even a tiny bit of grease can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.
Gradual Sugar Addition: Add sugar slowly while mixing to achieve that desirable glossy finish. Rushing this step can result in grainy meringue.
No Humidity: Try to make meringues on a dry day. Humidity can interfere with the drying process, resulting in chewy meringues instead of crisp ones.
Proper Cooling: After baking, let the meringues cool in the oven. This step is key to creating that perfect texture—crispy on the outside and soft inside.

What to Serve with Peppermint Meringues

Imagine a delightful spread of festive flavors that will perfectly complement your sweet, airy Peppermint Meringues.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The warmth and creaminess of hot chocolate provide a soothing contrast to the lightness of the meringues. It’s like a cozy hug in a cup!
Fresh Berries: A vibrant mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a tart and juicy burst that pairs beautifully with the sweet mintiness. Their freshness elevates your dessert experience.
Chocolate Ganache: The deep, rich chocolate complements the meringues and adds indulgent flavor. Drizzling it over meringues creates a luxurious dessert that will impress your guests.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream paired with your meringues creates an irresistible light-and-rich combination. It's a classic duo that everyone will love!
Peppermint Tea: Sipping on fragrant peppermint tea enhances the minty tones of the meringues and brings a soothing touch to your dessert table. A lovely way to wind down after a festive meal.
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti offers a satisfying texture contrast while its nutty flavors harmonize with the sweetness of the meringues. Enjoy dipping them for an extra layer of enjoyment.

Explore these delightful pairings and turn your Peppermint Meringues into a memorable feast!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Meringues

Fridge: Store your Peppermint Meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful crispness. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can ruin their texture.

Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the meringues in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating: Reheat is not necessary; however, if you prefer warm meringues, place them in a low oven (200°F) for a few minutes to refresh their texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Meringues are a fantastic option for busy home cooks! You can prepare the meringue mixture and pipe the mounds up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the piped meringue on the baking sheet, covered tightly with plastic wrap, as this helps preserve their airy texture. When you're ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake the meringues as directed. The key to maintaining quality is ensuring they cool completely in the oven after baking, which keeps them crisp on the outside. With this prep-ahead option, you’ll enjoy the festive joy of Peppermint Meringues without the last-minute rush!

Peppermint Meringues Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Peppermint Meringues uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the vanilla with a dairy-free vanilla extract to keep these meringues completely dairy-free. They'll still taste just as delicious!
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled meringues for an indulgent twist. The rich chocolate beautifully complements the mint.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your meringue for a surprising and delightful heat in each bite. This variation will intrigue the adventurous palate!
Nutty Flavor: Fold in finely chopped nuts such as pistachios or almonds before piping for added texture and a nutty taste that pairs beautifully with the peppermint.
Citrus Zest: Consider adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to brighten up the flavor profile. This zingy addition will give the meringues a refreshing twist!
Mini Meringue Bites: Pipe smaller mounds to create bite-sized treats that are perfect for holiday parties. Their small size makes them even more fun to eat!
Flavor Infusion: Swap out the peppermint extract for other extracts like coconut or almond for a completely different flavor experience. The possibilities are endless!
Fruity Topping: Instead of crushed peppermint candies, top with finely chopped freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries for a fruity touch that looks stunning and tastes wonderful.

Embrace your creativity! These variations not only allow you to tailor your Peppermint Meringues to suit your taste but also make each batch a new adventure in the kitchen. And if you're looking for more inspiration, why not discover how to make Dairy-Free Chocolate Meringues as a delightful alternative?

Peppermint Meringues Recipe FAQs

What type of egg whites should I use?
Absolutely! For the best Peppermint Meringues, use room temperature egg whites. They whip up better, allowing for lighter and airier meringues that practically melt in your mouth. Cold egg whites straight from the fridge won't achieve the same volume or texture.

How should I store Peppermint Meringues?
I recommend storing your Peppermint Meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps their delightful crispness intact. Avoid keeping them in the fridge, as moisture can ruin their texture and make them chewy.

Can I freeze Peppermint Meringues?
Yes! Freezing is a great option if you want to enjoy these treats later. First, place the meringues in a single layer on a baking sheet until they firm up, which takes about 1–2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.

What should I do if my meringues don’t form stiff peaks?
Very! If your meringues aren't forming stiff peaks, it could be due to a few factors. Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and grease-free, as even a small amount of fat can interfere with whipping. Also, try using fresh egg whites—older eggs can affect volume, too. If you're still having trouble, you can add a pinch more cream of tartar, which helps stabilize the egg whites and can improve the whipping process.

Are Peppermint Meringues suitable for those with allergies?
While these Peppermint Meringues are free from common allergens like gluten and nuts, they do contain egg whites and sugar. Always check with your guests about specific allergies, especially if you plan to share them. If someone is vegan or allergic to eggs, consider a meringue alternative made from aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). It's a fantastic egg white substitute!