Vanilla Meringue Cookies and Mini Pavlovas
Meringue Cookies are one of my favorite cookies. They are so simple to make, and a perfect way to use up egg whites. You only need to add sugar and cream of tartar and you're all set. They're fun to "pipe" into stars-- better yet, I like to make large shapes with an indentation. Once baked, they are filled with fresh whipped cream and topped with fresh fruit. These are called Pavlovas. Either way, I find them to be irresistible.
Equipment
- a large pastry bag fitted with a large star tip optional
- Stand Mixer with whisk attachment
Ingredients
- 3 large egg whites at room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar super fine sugar is even better, but not mandatory
- food grade coloring gel optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F; line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
Prepare your mixing bowl:
- Using white vinegar and a paper towel, thoroughly wipe and cleanse your mixing bowl. This will help to ensure that your egg whites will whip up properly.
- In a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, add the egg whites, vanilla and cream of tartar. Beat until the mixture is frothy and soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar 1 tablespoon at a time, waiting about 15 seconds between each addition. Once all of the sugar has been added, beat for an additional 5 minutes. The egg whites should be glossy and stiff but not dry.
- Spoon the mixture into a large pastry bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe 2-inch cookies onto the lined baking sheets, leaving 1 inch between each cookie.
- Likewise, using a large spoon, add a large mound of the meringue on a parchment lined baking sheet, and create a "well" into the center. Continue on baking as instructed.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the cookies in the oven for an additional 30 minutes. Remove and cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
To make Pavlovas:
- Once the meringues have cooled, fill with fresh whipped cream and top with fruit of your choice.