Ingredients
Swiss Meringue Ingredients



Coloring and Decoration
Instructions
Step 1
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature will allow the meringues to dry out properly. In a clean mixing bowl, combine egg whites and a pinch of salt.
Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes frothy, then gradually add the granulated sugar. Increase the speed to high and beat until you achieve stiff peaks. This should take about 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 2
Once the meringue is ready, divide it into several bowls depending on how many colors you want. Add drops of gel food colors to each bowl and gently fold until the colors are evenly distributed. Be careful not to over-mix as you want to retain the airy texture of the meringue.
Step 3
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a piping bag with a heart-shaped nozzle, carefully pipe the meringue into heart shapes on the parchment. Make sure to leave some space between the hearts, as they will expand slightly during baking.
Step 4
Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the meringues bake for 1 to 1.5 hours or until they are dry to the touch. After baking, turn off the oven and let the meringues sit inside until completely cool. This helps them firm up and achieve the perfect texture.
Step 5
Once the meringues are cool, you can decorate them with metallic edible glitter to add a beautiful shimmer. Simply sprinkle the glitter over the meringues for a stunning finish.
Step 6
Your delightful meringue hearts are now ready to impress! Serve them as a sweet treat for Valentine's Day or any special occasion. Enjoy with your loved ones!
Servings
Whether you're celebrating love or friendship, these unique meringue hearts are sure to make the occasion memorable. Enhance the experience by sharing stories and laughter around the table, while enjoying the sweetness of your creation! 🥳🍰
Equipment
Invest in a sturdy whisk or an electric mixer for quick and easy egg white peaks!



Use glass or stainless steel bowls to ensure no grease interferes with whipping egg whites.
A good quality piping bag is essential for creating beautiful shapes easily!
Line with parchment paper for easy transfer of your meringue hearts while keeping them from sticking.



Use gel food colors for rich, vibrant shades that won’t alter the texture of your meringue!
Variations
Want to make these treats suitable for everyone? You can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) instead of egg whites to create a vegan version. Just whip it up until it forms stiff peaks, just like you would with egg whites! Don’t forget to add a touch of lemon juice for stability! 🎉
For the gluten-sensitive crowd, rejoice! The traditional meringue is naturally gluten-free, so just focus on all the delicious colors and flavors without worry. Enhance your meringue hearts with a hint of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist without adding gluten! Indulge without compromise! 🌈✨
Faq
- What’s the secret to fluffy meringue?
The key is to ensure your mixing bowls are completely clean and dry. Any oil or grease can prevent your egg whites from reaching their full potential! Also, whip at medium to high speed until stiff peaks form.
- How do I store leftover meringue?
Store your meringue in an airtight container at room temperature. It can be kept for up to a week, but for best results, it's lovely when freshly made!
- Can I use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, but keep in mind that granulated sugar helps to stabilize the meringue better. If you go for powdered sugar, ensure you mix it well to avoid lumps.
- How can I ensure my meringue doesn’t crack?
Always bake at a low temperature to avoid sudden changes that can cause cracking. Let the meringue cool in the oven after baking for the best results!
- What if my meringue is too runny?
This could be due to not beating enough or too much moisture. Make sure your equipment is dry and consider adding a bit more sugar to stabilize it.
- Can I color my meringue with natural food coloring?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use gel-based options for the best color without altering the texture. You can blend fruits or use vegetable powders too!