Prepare to be bewitched by the most enchanting Halloween dessert that's equal parts magical and delicious! These Spooky Swirled Meringues are not just cookies – they're edible works of art that will transform your kitchen into a delightful haunted bakery. With their ethereal swirls and ghostly appearance, these light-as-air treats will float right off the plate and into your Halloween party guests' hearts, leaving them spellbound by your baking prowess.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring
Instructions
- Separate egg whites carefully, ensuring no yolk is present. Allow egg whites to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, which helps them whip more effectively.
- Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a clean, dry stand mixer bowl, combine egg whites and cream of tartar. Begin whipping on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, increasing mixer speed to high. Continue whipping until stiff, glossy peaks develop and sugar is completely dissolved.
- Gently fold in vanilla extract until evenly incorporated.
- For spooky Halloween effect, use food coloring: Paint thin stripes of orange or black food coloring inside a piping bag before adding meringue mixture.
- Transfer meringue to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe swirled ghost or spiral shapes onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each meringue.
- Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour, or until meringues are crisp and dry. Turn off oven and leave meringues inside with door slightly ajar to cool completely.
- Once cooled, carefully remove meringues from baking sheet. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Tips
- • Egg White Wisdom: Ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free from any grease, which can prevent egg whites from whipping properly. A quick wipe with white vinegar helps guarantee perfect peaks. • Temperature Matters: Room temperature egg whites whip up faster and create more volume. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before starting. • Color Creativity: For maximum spooky effect, use black or orange food coloring painted inside the piping bag for dramatic swirled designs. • Moisture is the Enemy: Humidity can make meringues sticky, so choose a dry day for baking and store in an airtight container once cooled. • Patience is Key: Low and slow baking ensures crisp, dry meringues without browning. Resist the urge to increase oven temperature!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 40kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
