When it comes to sweet treats, few things are as iconic and irresistible as a perfectly fluffy meringue. Whether you’re a fan of classic French macarons or decadent chocolate desserts, there’s no denying the allure of a light-as-air meringue topping or base. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 recipes that showcase the versatility and delightfulness of meringues in all their forms. From classic cookies to innovative ice cream sandwiches, these sweet treats are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling like you’re walking on cloud nine.
So grab your mixing bowls and baking sheets, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of meringues!
Classic French Meringue Cookies
These crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside cookies are a timeless French classic. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sweet treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar while whisking until stiff peaks form.
4. Place spoonfuls of meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
5. Bake for 1 hour, then reduce heat to 250°F (120°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Lemon Meringue Pie
Brighten up your dessert menu with this classic lemon meringue pie recipe, featuring a tangy lemon filling and a fluffy meringue topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (60ml) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups (250g) pastry dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 large egg whites
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pastry dough and place it in a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish.
3. Whisk together sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, and melted butter. Pour into the pie crust.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until filling is set.
5. Prepare meringue topping by beating egg whites with a pinch of sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Spread meringue over the pie and return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Meringue Kisses
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of chocolate and meringue in a simple and delicious way. Perfect for snacking or as a sweet addition to your favorite dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120g) semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, egg whites, and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
3. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Stir until smooth.
4. Fold melted chocolate into the meringue mixture until well combined.
5. Spoon small amounts of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 1 hour, then turn off oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Pavlova with Fresh Berries
This classic Australian dessert is a perfect showcase for the sweetness of fresh berries. A meringue base topped with whipped cream and a colorful arrangement of berries makes for a stunning and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
4. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
5. Sift flour over the meringue mixture and fold gently.
6. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
8. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
9. Top the cooled meringue with whipped cream and arrange fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Swiss Meringue Buttercream
Elevate your cakes and cookies with this rich and creamy Swiss Meringue Buttercream recipe, perfect for topping or filling baked goods. With its smooth texture and sweet flavor, it’s a classic choice for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, milk, and egg whites. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C).
2. Remove from heat and stir in cream of tartar and salt. Let cool slightly.
3. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until it has doubled in volume and is thick and fluffy.
4. Add softened butter and beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking involved)
Coconut Meringue Cake
This moist and fluffy cake is infused with the rich flavor of coconut and topped with a lightly sweetened meringue, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg whites, salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before topping with meringue (see below).
Meringue Topping:
1. Beat 2 large egg whites and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread over cooled cake and bake at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Raspberry Meringue Roulade
Raspberry Meringue Roulade Recipe
This show-stopping dessert combines sweet meringue with tart raspberries and a hint of vanilla, perfect for special occasions or unexpected gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (120g) fresh raspberries
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add vinegar and sugar mixture; beat until smooth.
4. Fold in softened butter and vanilla extract.
5. Pour meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to form a thin layer.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until meringue is dry and crisp.
7. Allow the meringue to cool completely before rolling it with raspberries and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Eton Mess with Meringue Crumbles
A classic English dessert, Eton Mess combines the lightness of whipped cream and the crunch of meringue crumbles. This recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 2 strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until glossy.
3. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds. Bake for 1-2 hours or until crisp and dry.
4. Allow the meringues to cool completely. Break into crumbles.
5. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in the sliced strawberries.
6. To assemble, place a layer of whipped cream on a serving dish. Top with meringue crumbs. Repeat for 2-3 layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and meringue crumbles.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours (for meringues) + 5 minutes to whip the cream
Espresso Meringue Tarts
Elevate your dessert game with these rich and creamy espresso meringue tarts, perfect for coffee lovers and sweet tooths alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 shot of espresso (about 1 tablespoon)
– Meringue topping (recipe below)
Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
4. Place tarts on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow tarts to cool completely before topping with meringue (recipe below).
6. Meringue: Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over cooled tarts.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Almond Meringue Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a sweet indulgence or as a garnish for your favorite dessert. With their crispy exterior and chewy interior, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in sliced almonds and melted butter.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Matcha Meringue Cookies
These delicate cookies are infused with the bright, grassy flavor of matcha green tea and have a light-as-air texture that’s perfect for snacking. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these addictive treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon matcha powder
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, confectioners’ sugar, and matcha powder.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar mixture to egg whites and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in small rounds. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until dry and crisp.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Black Forest Meringue Nests
Elevate your dessert game with these show-stopping Black Forest meringue nests, featuring a decadent chocolate and whipped cream filling. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Fresh whipped cream and cherries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites, sugar, cream of tartar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in cocoa powder until well combined.
4. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in 6-8 nests.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crispy and dry.
6. Allow meringues to cool completely before filling.
7. In a separate bowl, whip heavy whipping cream with softened butter until stiff peaks form.
8. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
9. Assemble nests by filling cooled meringue shells with whipped cream mixture and drizzling with melted chocolate.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Salted Caramel Meringue Bars
These indulgent bars combine the flaky crust of a graham cracker, the chewy texture of caramel, and the airy sweetness of meringue. The perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into prepared baking dish.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk and sea salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until caramel turns golden brown (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat; stir in butter until melted. Pour caramel mixture over crust.
5. Beat egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue mixture over caramel layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until meringue is golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Orange Blossom Meringue Cupcakes
Elevate your baking game with these delightful Orange Blossom Meringue Cupcakes, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of orange zest, juice, and blossom water. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup orange zest
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold in orange zest, juice, and blossom water.
4. Divide batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Top each cupcake with a dollop of meringue mixture.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio Meringue Ice Cream Sandwiches
Pistachio Meringue Ice Cream Sandwiches: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Treat!
These creamy sandwiches combine the richness of pistachio ice cream with the crunch and sweetness of meringue cookies, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, whisking until stiff peaks form.
3. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in desired shape. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crispy.
4. Make pistachio ice cream according to your favorite recipe or use store-bought.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing a scoop of pistachio ice cream between two meringue cookies.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including baking time)
Enjoy your Pistachio Meringue Ice Cream Sandwiches!
Vanilla Bean Meringue Clouds
These airy meringue clouds are infused with the sweet and creamy flavor of vanilla bean, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these cloud-like treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla powder)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar while continuously whisking until stiff peaks form.
4. Add vanilla extract and bean paste/powder; whisk until well combined.
5. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in desired shape.
6. Bake for 1 hour, then turn off oven and let sit for an additional 2 hours to dry completely.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Enjoy your Vanilla Bean Meringue Clouds as a sweet treat or use them as a topping for ice cream, fruit parfaits, or whipped cream.
Banana Pudding with Toasted Meringue
Savor the sweet and creamy combination of ripe bananas, velvety pudding, and crispy toasted meringue in this classic Southern dessert. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup meringue cookies (homemade or store-bought), toasted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks until lightened. Temper by slowly pouring the warm pudding into the eggs, whisking continuously.
5. Pour the pudding mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Arrange banana slices on top.
6. Toast meringue cookies in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
7. Top pudding with toasted meringue and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes, including toasting the meringues.
Cinnamon Spiced Meringue Drops
Warm up with these sweet and spicy treats! Cinnamon Spiced Meringue Drops are a perfect combination of crispy meringue, warm cinnamon, and a hint of sugar.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Add cinnamon and salt; mix until well combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until dry and crisp. Turn off heat and let cool completely in oven.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in sweet treats with these 18 fluffy meringue recipes! From classic French meringue cookies to decadent chocolate meringue kisses, and from tart espresso meringue tarts to creamy pistachio meringue ice cream sandwiches, there’s something for every taste. Discover how to make a show-stopping pavlova with fresh berries or a simple yet impressive vanilla bean meringue cloud. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these recipes are sure to delight and impress your friends and family. So go ahead, get whisking, and indulge in the sweet delights of meringues!
