The sweet and airy world of meringues – where a little bit of egg whites, sugar, and air can create something truly magical. Whether you’re looking for a classic French cookie or a show-stopping dessert for your next dinner party, meringues are the perfect ingredient to add some oomph to any occasion. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouthwatering meringue recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family. From lemony pies to chocolate-dipped kisses, and from classic cookies to exotic tartlets, we’ve got you covered with the most scrumptious meringue creations out there.
Classic French Meringue Cookies
These delicate meringue cookies are a classic French treat that require just a few simple ingredients and some careful attention to achieve their signature lightness and flavor. With this recipe, you’ll be enjoying crispy, chewy, and sweet meringues in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add the sugar to the egg mixture, whisking constantly until stiff peaks form.
4. Add a pinch of salt and whisk until combined.
5. Spoon small mounds of the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until the cookies are crispy on the outside and still slightly chewy in the center.
7. Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Lemon Meringue Pie
Brighten up your dessert table with this classic lemon meringue pie recipe. A tangy and sweet combination of lemon curd and fluffy meringue, this pie is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (30g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in egg yolks and lemon juice.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish.
5. Pour filling into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 15 minutes.
7. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
8. Spread meringue over the filling, sealing edges to the crust.
9. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Swiss Meringue Buttercream
Elevate your cake game with this rich and creamy Swiss meringue buttercream, perfect for decorating cakes and cupcakes.
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 1/4 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and carefully pour into a large mixing bowl with the egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt.
4. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on high speed until it has cooled to room temperature and has doubled in volume.
5. Add the softened butter and beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Pavlova with Fresh Berries
A classic Australian dessert, Pavlova is a show-stopping meringue-based treat that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe adds a pop of color and freshness with a layer of sweet berries.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
– Fresh berries of your choice (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Add the cold water and mix until well combined.
4. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a round shape about 25cm (10 inches) in diameter.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until the meringue is dry and crisp.
6. Allow the Pavlova to cool completely before topping with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Meringue Kisses
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized morsels of heaven, featuring crispy meringue kisses smothered in rich chocolate. Perfect for parties or a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Spoon meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small kisses.
4. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crispy.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled meringue kisses into melted chocolate, coating completely.
6. Place dipped kisses on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Raspberry Meringue Roulade
A show-stopping dessert that combines the sweetness of meringue with the tartness of raspberries, perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups fresh raspberries
• 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, beat egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
5. Meanwhile, whip softened butter until light and fluffy. Add confectioners’ sugar and mix until combined.
6. Arrange raspberries on top of the cooled meringue.
7. Roll the meringue tightly around the raspberries, starting from one of the long edges.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including baking time)
Toasted Coconut Meringue Cake
This moist and fluffy cake is infused with the rich flavors of toasted coconut, perfectly balanced by a light and airy meringue topping. It’s an ideal dessert for any occasion that calls for a touch of tropical charm.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and toasted coconut.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg whites, and salt. Add the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before topping with meringue (recipe not included).
6. Bake meringue at 200°F (90°C) for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Eton Mess with Strawberry Meringue
Eton Mess, a British classic, gets a sweet upgrade with the addition of strawberry meringue. This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup store-bought or homemade meringue cookies, crushed
– 1/4 cup strawberry jam
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and sliced strawberries. Fold the strawberry mixture into the whipped cream until combined.
3. Spoon the meringue mixture into individual serving cups or a large glass dish.
4. Top with crushed meringue cookies and drizzle with strawberry jam.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required, as this dessert is served chilled.
Espresso Meringue Sandwiches
Espresso Meringue Sandwiches: A delightful fusion of rich espresso and sweet meringue, sandwiched between crispy cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 large egg white
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 ounce)
– 12-15 ladyfingers or cookies
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the egg white until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until combined.
4. Fold the whipped egg mixture into the dry ingredients until smooth.
5. Spoon small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
6. Bake for 1-2 hours or until crisp and dry.
7. Allow the meringues to cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Dip the top of each meringue in the espresso, allowing any excess to drip off.
9. Sandwich a meringue with a cookie or ladyfinger, and serve.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours for meringues; additional time for assembling sandwiches.
Passion Fruit Meringue Tart
This tropical tart combines the sweetness of passion fruit with the crunch of meringue, perfect for a warm weather dessert or snack. The tanginess of the passion fruit curd adds a delightful contrast to the sweet meringue topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup passion fruit pulp and juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 cup meringue mixture (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Meringue Mixture:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and place in a tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, mix passion fruit pulp and juice with sugar and melted butter. Pour into the pastry-lined tart pan.
4. Bake for 25 minutes or until the filling is set.
5. Meanwhile, prepare meringue mixture by whipping egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Spread meringue over the baked tart filling and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Bean Meringue Clouds
Elevate your baked goods with these delicate, flavorful meringues infused with the warmth of vanilla bean. Perfect for topping cakes, cookies, or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients:
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form.
4. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
5. Fold in split vanilla bean.
6. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet, forming small clouds.
7. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until dry and crisp.
8. Allow to cool completely before storing.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Meringues
These meringues combine the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea with the sweetness of sugar, creating a unique and refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). 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. Add matcha powder and salt; whisk until well combined.
4. Spoon mixture onto prepared baking sheet in desired shapes.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until meringues are dry and crisp.
6. Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Pistachio and Rose Meringue Nests
Elevate your desserts with these delicate, flavorful meringue nests infused with the sweetness of pistachios and the romance of rose petals. Perfect for a special occasion or a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon dried rose petals (or rose extract)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°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 melted butter, chopped pistachios, and dried rose petals (or rose extract).
5. Spoon mixture into small nests on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
7. Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Salted Caramel Meringue Pie
This classic pie gets a twist with the addition of flaky sea salt, adding a touch of sophistication to the rich caramel and fluffy meringue.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, sugar, and sea salt until stiff peaks form.
5. Pour caramel into the baked crust. Top with meringue, spreading to edges.
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Blackberry and Lime Meringue Pavlova
This Australian-inspired dessert combines the sweetness of blackberries with the brightness of lime, all atop a crispy meringue shell. A perfect treat for warm weather gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
– Juice and zest of 1 lime
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites, sugar, flour, cream of tartar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in a circular shape.
4. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until crispy and dry.
5. Allow meringue to cool completely. Top with blackberries, lime juice, and zest.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Almond Meringue Cake with Whipped Cream
This classic French-inspired dessert is a showstopper at any gathering. The combination of crispy almond meringue, moist cake, and fluffy whipped cream is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) sliced almonds
– Whipped cream (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add melted butter, almond extract, and sliced almonds; whisk until combined.
4. Pour batter onto prepared baking sheet and smooth into a rectangle shape.
5. Bake for 1 hour, or until meringue is crispy and golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving with whipped cream.
Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Pinch of salt
Combine ingredients in a bowl; whip until stiff peaks form.
Chocolate Hazelnut Meringue Torte
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent torte, combining the richness of chocolate and hazelnuts with the lightness of meringue.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
– 8 ounces (225g) dark chocolate chips, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold in flour mixture until well combined.
4. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until firm to the touch. Let cool completely.
6. Melt chocolate chips and fold into cooled meringue. Stir in chopped hazelnuts.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Orange Blossom Meringue Cookies
These delicate cookies are infused with the sweet, floral flavor of orange blossom water and topped with a fluffy meringue topping. Perfect for a special occasion or as a unique dessert to serve at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) orange blossom water
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add orange blossom water and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add egg whites, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until dry and crisp.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peppermint Meringue Snowflakes
Add a touch of winter magic to your holiday gatherings with these delightful Peppermint Meringue Snowflakes. Crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside, these meringues are infused with peppermint flavor and topped with a fluffy marshmallow snowflake design.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whip egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Add peppermint extract and mix well.
5. Drop spoonfuls of meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet, forming desired shapes (snowflakes).
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
7. Allow to cool completely before topping with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, if using.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Blueberry Meringue Cheesecake
Experience the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet blueberries topped with a fluffy meringue crust.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
For the Meringue:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Mix cheesecake ingredients and pour over crust.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
5. Prepare meringue ingredients and spread over cheesecake.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your baking game with these 20 mouthwatering meringue recipes! From classic French cookies to decadent chocolate-dipped kisses, and from tangy lemon pie to sweet pavlova, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these easy-to-follow recipes will guide you through the art of meringue-making. Discover unique flavor combinations like passion fruit tart, matcha green tea meringues, and pistachio and rose nests. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence, these meringue masterpieces are sure to impress.