Vanilla meringue cookies are a delightful treat that is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create these delicate, airy cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a homemade dessert or simply enjoy a sweet treat on a rainy day, the vanilla meringue cookie recipe is a must-try.

The key to a perfect vanilla meringue cookie lies in the technique rather than the ingredients. The process involves beating egg whites to a stiff peak, then carefully folding in sugar and vanilla extract. This creates a light and airy texture that is both crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. The result is a cookie that is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Here’s a simple vanilla meringue cookie recipe that you can follow:

Ingredients

– 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: food coloring or sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1.

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2.

In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on high speed until they form soft peaks.

3.

Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until the egg whites form stiff peaks.

4.

Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5.

Once all the sugar has been added, beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until it is thick and shiny.

6.

Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.

7.

Scoop the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet using a spoon or piping bag. You can create any shape you like, but be sure to leave some space between the cookies to allow for spreading.

8.

Optional: If you wish to add food coloring or sprinkles, do so before baking.

9.

Bake the cookies for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until they are dry and crisp to the touch.

10.

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These vanilla meringue cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table, and they’re also great for gift-giving. With this recipe, you can easily customize the flavor and appearance of your cookies to suit your preferences. Enjoy your homemade vanilla meringue cookies!