Christmas Meringue Recipe

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A plate of Christmas meringue cookies is like edible snowflakes—light, airy, and impossibly pretty. These festive little treats are made with whipped egg whites and sugar, baked until they’re crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Swirled with red or green food coloring, or dotted with crushed peppermint, they instantly dress up any dessert table.

One of the best things about Christmas meringues is how effortlessly magical they feel. They require just a few basic ingredients but yield impressive results that are perfect for gifting, party trays, or a sweet bite after dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to meringue, this recipe is easy to master and endlessly customizable.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Meringue Recipe

This recipe is the kind that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a holiday baking dream. It’s naturally gluten-free, budget-friendly, and can be made ahead of time—a win for busy holiday hosts. The cookies are as crisp as fresh snow with a delicate interior that melts in your mouth, and you can pipe them into trees, stars, or simple kisses depending on your festive mood.

What Kind of Sugar Should I Use for Meringue?

Superfine sugar (also called caster sugar) is ideal because it dissolves more quickly into the egg whites, resulting in a smoother texture. If you don’t have any on hand, you can pulse granulated sugar in a food processor for 10-15 seconds to achieve a similar consistency. Avoid powdered sugar—it contains cornstarch which can affect the stability of your meringue.

Ingredients for the Christmas Meringue Recipe

Meringue cookies use pantry staples, but each one plays an important role in the structure and taste of the final cookie. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Egg whites: The foundation of your meringue. They whip into a foam that creates the airy structure of the cookies.
• Superfine sugar: Essential for sweetening and stabilizing the egg whites while giving a glossy finish.
• Cream of tartar: Helps stabilize the whipped egg whites and prevents them from collapsing.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting note of flavor.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.
• Food coloring: Optional, but ideal for adding a festive flair. Red and green work beautifully for Christmas.
• Crushed peppermint or sprinkles: For decorating the tops with extra color and texture.

How To Make the Christmas Meringue Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Baking Tools

Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. If using food coloring, have it ready in a small dish.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar and salt using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.

Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually

Increase the speed to high and slowly add the superfine sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Continue beating until stiff peaks form and the mixture looks glossy.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Color

Fold in the vanilla extract. If you’re using food coloring, add it now for a marbled look or swirl it through a piping bag for striped meringues.

Step 5: Pipe and Decorate

Transfer the meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip. Pipe small kisses or shapes onto the prepared baking sheets. Sprinkle with crushed peppermint or holiday sprinkles if desired.

Step 6: Bake Low and Slow

Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours until the meringues are dry and can be lifted easily off the parchment. Turn off the oven and let them cool completely inside with the door slightly ajar.

How to Serve and Store Christmas Meringue Cookies

These cookies are a perfect addition to any cookie exchange, dessert tray, or after-dinner sweet plate. Their light texture makes them a hit even after a big holiday meal. This recipe makes around 40-50 small cookies, enough for a crowd or to package into gifts.

Store meringue cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep them away from moisture and humidity to maintain their crisp texture. They can last for up to two weeks if stored properly.

What to Serve With Christmas Meringue?

Hot Chocolate

The sweet crunch of meringue pairs beautifully with a rich, creamy cup of hot cocoa.

Peppermint Ice Cream

Double the peppermint delight by serving meringue cookies alongside a scoop of this cool, minty dessert.

Eggnog

The creamy spiced flavor of eggnog complements the delicate vanilla in the meringues.

Chocolate Fondue

Dip your cookies in melted dark chocolate for an elevated treat.

Winter Fruit Salad

Serve with a colorful bowl of citrus, pomegranate, and kiwi for a bright and fresh contrast.

Coffee or Espresso

These cookies are light enough to enjoy with a bold cup of coffee or a smooth espresso shot.

Cheesecake Bites

Use meringues as a crunchy garnish for mini cheesecakes or even a whole cheesecake.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you’re enchanted by the charm of Christmas meringues, you might also love:

• Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies for a decadent twist.
• Warm and Cozy Apple Crisp if you’re after a warm baked dessert.
• White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles for citrusy sweetness.
• Peanut Butter Cowboy Cookies packed with flavor and texture.
• Whimsical Cotton Candy Cookies Delight for a fun, colorful treat.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday dessert board so it’s ready when you’re baking next.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use peppermint or keep them classic? Maybe you tried a snowflake piping tip?

I love hearing how others bring their own sparkle to these festive bakes. Questions or tips are welcome too—let’s make this season sweeter together.

Explore beautifully curated holiday dessert inspiration and more sweet ideas on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Christmas meringue cookies are a joyful addition to any holiday table. Crisp, light, and elegant, they bring color and charm without much fuss. Whether you’re baking them for a party, a gift box, or just a personal treat, they always delight. Once you master the technique, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe year after year.

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