Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Meringue Base

Start by preheating your oven to 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit). Ensure the baking trays are lined with parchment paper for easy removal of the meringues. Next, in a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on high speed with an electric mixer.

Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat the mixture. Keep beating until the meringue becomes glossy and stiff peaks form, which should take another 3-5 minutes. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract gently with a spatula.

Step 2

Shape the Meringues

Using a piping bag fitted with your desired nozzle, pipe the meringue onto the prepared baking trays. You can create fun shapes like stars, hearts, or any figure that your kids will love. Don't worry about making them perfect; the charm is in their whimsical design!

If you wish, now is the time to add color using food gels or powders. Experiment and let your creativity flow! After piping, sprinkle some sprinkles or add edible flowers for an extra festive touch.

Step 3

Bake the Meringues

Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are completely dry and can be lifted off the parchment without sticking. It's important to avoid opening the oven during baking to maintain stable heat, which helps achieve that beautiful crisp texture.

Once baked, turn off the oven and let the meringues cool inside with the door slightly ajar. This will help prevent them from cracking due to temperature changes.

Step 4

Serve and Enjoy

Once cool, your delightful meringue creations are ready to be served! They make perfect treats for children’s parties and gatherings. Encourage the little ones to get involved with decorating and enjoy the fruits of their labor together!

Store any leftover meringues in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crispy. Have fun and get creative with your designs! ❤️

Servings

When it comes to serving these charming meringue shapes, the possibilities are endless! Create a stunning dessert platter that can be a showstopper at any gathering. You can **layer your meringues with fresh fruits and cream** for an inviting dessert that pleases the eye and palate. 🍓🥥 Perhaps accompany them with a **light fruit sorbet** to balance the sweetness. For a playful twist, let kids decorate their own meringues. Set up a fun self-decorating station with edible paints, colorful sprinkles, and delicious toppings! 🎨🍭 This not only adds an element of interaction but also sparks their creativity. **Consider packaging these treats in a decorative box** as homemade gifts for friends and family. They make for delightful surprises! Every bite will remind them of the joy and fun involved in creating these sweet shapes together. ❤️

Equipment

Piping Bags and Tips

Use disposable or reusable piping bags to create different shapes. Get a set of various tips to make fun designs. Don't forget to hold your bag firmly and practice your technique!

We recommend:
Baking Sheets

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This also allows for easy cleanup after your baking adventure!

Variations

For those looking for **gluten-free and vegan options**, you can make meringues using aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas! 🌱 This magical ingredient whips up just like egg whites, allowing you to create charming shapes without using eggs. To keep things festive, try adding natural colorings like beetroot powder or matcha to your meringue mix. Use a bit of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor while ensuring your treat is still **100% vegan**. By following these variations, everyone can enjoy these sweet delights, regardless of dietary preferences! 🎉

Faq

  • What is the secret to getting the perfect meringue texture?

    The key is to whip your egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Make sure your mixing bowl is free from grease or any impurities, as even a little fat can prevent your egg whites from whipping up properly.

  • How can I prevent my meringues from being sticky?

    Ensure that they are completely dried after baking. After taking them out of the oven, let them cool in the turned-off oven to maintain their crispiness. If humidity is high, consider using a dehydrator!

  • What if I want to flavor my meringues?

    You can add a few drops of your favorite extract (like almond or lemon) during the whipping process. Just remember not to add too much liquid, as it can affect the structure.

  • Can I store meringues for a long time?

    Yes! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If they become soft, try refreshing them in a low-heat oven for a few minutes.

  • How can I make meringue-based desserts?

    Combine meringues with whipped cream and fresh fruits to create a delightful pavlova or a layered dessert. You can also use meringues as a topping for pies or blend them into your favorite ice cream!

  • Can I use flavored egg whites for added taste?

    Absolutely! Flavored egg whites can enhance your meringue. Make sure they are at room temperature, and gently fold in any additional ingredients to keep the mixture airy.

Nutrition facts

Fun and Easy Meringue Dessert for Kids
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:Approximately 150 to 250 calories per serving depending on ingredients used.
Calories (Min - Max):150 - 250
Total Fat:5g
Saturated Fat:1g
Protein:3g
Total Carbohydrate:30g
Total Sugars:20g