Meringue Kisses
17/11/2023Meringue Kisses are simple yet elegant treats, perfect for concluding a meal or as a little delight during the day. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients
- 2 large egg whites
- 120 g of caster sugar
- A pinch of salt
- A few drops of lemon juice or white vinegar (to stabilize the meringue)
- Cocoa powder (optional, for dusting)
- Dark chocolate (optional, for sandwiching the meringues)
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 90-100 °C. Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Ensure the bowl you will use to whip the egg whites is completely clean and free of any grease residues.
- Whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt and a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar, using an electric whisk or a stand mixer. When they start to foam, add the sugar little by little, continuing to whip until you obtain a shiny and stiff meringue that forms the classic peaks when you lift the whisks.
- Transfer the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a star or plain nozzle, depending on the shape you prefer for your meringue kisses.
- Pipe small meringues onto the parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake on the middle rack and leave to dry for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meringues are dry on the outside but still soft inside. Avoid opening the oven during cooking.
- Once ready, turn off the oven and let the meringues cool inside with the door slightly ajar.
- If you wish, once cooled, you can sandwich the meringues two by two with a little melted dark chocolate and allow them to solidify. Dust with cocoa powder for a more indulgent effect.
Interesting Facts
Meringue Kisses are so called because traditionally they are joined together in pairs, as if exchanging a kiss. These treats are extremely versatile: they can be flavored with vanilla, citrus zests, chocolate or even colored with food coloring for special occasions. They are also a perfect base to be paired with fresh fruit or whipped cream.
