Tree Meringue Cookies are the epitome of festivity during the holiday season. These stunning cookies, shaped like elegant Christmas trees, deliver a delightful crunch while being light and airy. With their delicate sweetness, they sit atop buttery cookie bases, making them an enchanting addition to any holiday table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, gift edible treats, or simply indulge in some holiday fun with family, these cookies are a must-try. They are naturally gluten-free and easy to make, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive delight.
Why You’ll Love This Tree Meringue Cookies
You’ll adore these meringue cookies for many reasons! Firstly, they are incredibly light and airy, making them a unique contrast to traditional holiday desserts. Secondly, their vibrant colors and elegant shapes make them visually appealing, perfect for festive occasions. Thirdly, they are naturally gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs. Additionally, these cookies are versatile; you can experiment with flavors and colors, such as using green food coloring for a classic Christmas look. Moreover, they make wonderful meringue treats for gifting and sharing. Lastly, the combination of crunchy meringue cookies with a soft base creates a delightful texture that everyone will love!
Ingredients for Tree Meringue Cookies
Gather these items:
- 3 large egg whites
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 to 2 drops gel food coloring (optional)
- 5 to 6 flat round cookies (shortbread or sugar cookies)
- Optional decorative sprinkles or edible glitter
How to Make Tree Meringue Cookies Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Prepare a piping bag fitted with a large star tip (like Wilton 1M).
- Step 2: In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Step 3: Slowly add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on medium-high until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Step 4: Gently fold in vanilla extract and food coloring (if using), being careful not to deflate the meringue.
- Step 5: Place cookie bases on the baking sheet. Fill the piping bag with meringue and pipe spirals to form tree shapes on each cookie base.
- Step 6: Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until meringues are dry to the touch. Turn off the oven and let them cool inside for another hour.
- Step 7: Once fully cooled, decorate with sprinkles, powdered sugar, or edible glitter if desired. Store in an airtight container away from moisture.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Tree Meringue Cookies
Keep these in mind:
- These cookies are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for various diets.
- They make great edible gifts for the holidays, so consider packaging them beautifully!
- Store them in a cool, dry place to maintain crispness.
- For added flavor, try experimenting with different extracts or flavors in the meringue.
Best Ways to Serve Tree Meringue Cookies
These delightful cookies can be served in various ways. Pair them with warm beverages like hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful treat. They also make a stunning centerpiece on a dessert table during holiday gatherings. Consider placing them in festive tins or boxes for a charming gift idea. For an extra special touch, serve them alongside other festive meringue cookies for the holidays to offer a variety of flavors and textures.
How to Store and Reheat Tree Meringue Cookies
To keep your Tree Meringue Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container away from moisture. This will help retain their crunchiness. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, they can be made a few days in advance and stored. Just ensure they are completely cooled before sealing them in the container. They are best enjoyed within a week for optimal freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Meringue Cookies
What’s the secret to perfect Tree Meringue Cookies?
The secret lies in the egg whites! Ensure they are at room temperature and free from any yolk. Beat them until they form stiff peaks, which is crucial for achieving that light and airy texture characteristic of meringue kisses.
Can I make Tree Meringue Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare these cookies in advance. Just follow the recipe and store them in an airtight container once cooled. They maintain their texture well, making them perfect for holiday baking prep.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Tree Meringue Cookies?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and dry. Any grease can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. Additionally, don’t rush the sugar addition; adding it slowly helps to create stable peaks.
Variations of Tree Meringue Cookies You Can Try
Feel free to get creative with your Tree Meringue Cookies. Here are some fun variations:
- Try using green food coloring for a classic Christmas tree look.
- Add peppermint extract for a festive twist.
- Use different shaped cookie bases, like star or holiday-themed cookies.
- Consider making vegan meringue cookie recipes by substituting egg whites with aquafaba.
For more festive recipes, check out our latest recipes. If you’re interested in other gluten-free options, you might enjoy Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers or Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp. For a sweet treat, don’t miss our Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies.
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Tree Meringue Cookies: 7 Festive Treats for the Holidays
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Bring the holiday spirit to your table with these stunning Tree Meringue Cookies. Light, crisp, and delicately sweet, these cookies are shaped like elegant Christmas trees and rest on buttery cookie bases.
Ingredients
- 3 large egg whites
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 to 2 drops gel food coloring (optional)
- 5 to 6 flat round cookies (shortbread or sugar cookies)
- Optional decorative sprinkles or edible glitter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Prepare a piping bag fitted with a large star tip (like Wilton 1M).
- In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Slowly add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on medium-high until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Gently fold in vanilla extract and food coloring (if using), being careful not to deflate the meringue.
- Place cookie bases on the baking sheet. Fill the piping bag with meringue and pipe spirals to form tree shapes on each cookie base.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until meringues are dry to the touch. Turn off the oven and let them cool inside for another hour.
- Once fully cooled, decorate with sprinkles, powdered sugar, or edible glitter if desired. Store in an airtight container away from moisture.
Notes
- These cookies are naturally gluten-free.
- They make great edible gifts for the holidays.
- Store them in a cool, dry place to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
