This time of year we all are extremely busy. With trying to find the perfect presents, going to holiday concerts, and hosting and attending holiday parties. It is a wonderful time of year filled with families and delicious food and some that can be quite decadent, so it’s nice to find a holiday treat that is guilt free. Yes I said GUILT FREE!!!!! Peppermint Meringue’s fit that bill. Meringue’s are a simple, light as air cookie that take just minute’s to prepare, a few hours drying in the oven, and seconds to devour. I make mine with peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candy canes, but you could do vanilla extract and mini chocolate chips or almond extract and toasted coconut. The combinations are endless. Enjoy!!
Peppermint Meringue’s
Makes approx. 3 dozen cookies
1c sifted powdered sugar, divided
2 large egg whites
¼ tsp peppermint extract
¼c finely crushed peppermint candy canes
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and heat the oven to 175F. In a clean mixing bowl, place egg whites and mix on medium speed until foamy. Increase speed to high and whip until soft peaks form. Add in half of the powdered sugar slowly and whip until stiff peaks form. Add peppermint extract and mix briefly. Slowly fold in remaining powdered sugar with a rubber spatula. Scoop the meringue in to a large piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe small meringue kisses, 1 ¼ in wide and 1 in high onto parchment paper. Sprinkle with crushed candies. Bake until dry for about 3 hours. Turn oven off and let cool in the oven for 1 hour. Serve immediately or keep in air tight container for up to one week.
