Preschool Treat Recipe - Meringue Clouds

Meringues make simple, sweet cookie-like treats perfect for holidays and special events. Be sure to make these when preschoolers are around - the transformation from egg whites and sugar into meringue will astonish them. Use these tips for making a perfect meringue and garnish with your favorite toppings or flavorings.

How to Make Meringue Clouds

2 large egg whites
1/4 tsp cream of tartar
1/2 tsp vanilla (optional)
1/2 cup superfine sugar

Step 1:

Preheat oven to 200 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Step 2:

Allow egg whites to warm to room temperature. Beat together the egg whites, cream of tartar and vanilla at medium speed until soft peaks form. Continue beating on high speed and add the sugar gradually, about 1 tablespoon at a time. Beat on high until firm peaks form and you can no longer feel grittiness when you rub a small amount of meringue between fingers (this can take several minutes of beating).

Step 3:

Using two spoons, drop dollops of meringue onto the lined baking sheet. Top with a garnish like dried fruit or nuts, if desired. Bake meringue clouds for 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours. Meringues are done baking when they are dry and crisp. Choose one to test or insert a thin knife to feel if they are dry throughout. Allow to cool slightly in the oven, then remove meringue clouds with a spatula.

Valentine's Day Meringue Clouds

For Valentine's Day, top each meringue with dried cranberries (craisins), creating a heart shape if you can. Or, make a well in the top of the meringue before baking and fill with red jam or jelly or red fruit pieces when cool.

by Kati Chevaux

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