Description
Sweet French Meringue whisks egg whites and sugar into cloud-like perfection, creating delicate peaks of pure confectionery magic. Crisp exterior and marshmallow center make this classic dessert a delightful treat for elegant gatherings and simple weekend indulgences.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
Supporting Ingredients:
- 12 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 18 teaspoons salt
Flavoring:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare workspace by setting oven to 225F and positioning rack in center of oven, then line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Separate egg whites into clean, grease-free mixing bowl, ensuring no yolk remnants are present.
- Incorporate cream of tartar and salt, then whisk at low speed until mixture becomes frothy and soft bubbles emerge.
- Gradually increase mixer speed to medium-high, adding sugar in steady, slow stream while continuously beating.
- Continue whipping until meringue transforms into glossy, stiff peaks that hold their shape when beater is lifted.
- Gently fold vanilla extract into meringue, ensuring even distribution without deflating mixture; add food coloring if desired.
- Transfer meringue to piping bag or use spoon to create uniform dollops on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Place tray in preheated oven and bake for 1 hour until meringues appear dry and crisp on exterior.
- Switch off oven after baking time, leaving meringues inside to cool and dry completely for approximately 12 hours.
- Once completely cooled, carefully remove meringues from parchment and store in airtight container to maintain crispness.
Notes
- Moisture matters most when whipping egg whites, so ensure absolutely no yolk contamination or oil on utensils.
- Room temperature eggs create smoother, more stable meringue with higher volume compared to cold eggs.
- Use superfine sugar for faster dissolving and smoother texture, preventing grainy meringue consistency.
- Add cream of tartar as a stabilizer to help egg whites maintain structure and create glossier, more stable peaks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 193 kcal
- Sugar: 50 g
- Sodium: 108 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 10.8 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg