**Celebrate the Joy of Baking: Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies**
**Introduction**
Welcome to a delightful holiday baking experience! Our Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies are a light, airy celebration of the season. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a festive project, these cookies are as joyful to make as they are to eat. Join us on this sweet journey and subscribe to receive more delicious recipes by email!
**Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
These Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies are a dream come true for holiday bakers. The flavor is subtle yet delightful, with a hint of vanilla that pairs perfectly with their delicate texture. They’re incredibly simple to prepare, making them ideal for family baking sessions. Plus, decorating these cookies with sprinkles and edible glitter adds a fun, festive touch that’s sure to impress.
**Ingredients**
– 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Green gel food coloring
– Star-shaped sprinkles
– Edible glitter (optional)
**Necessary Tools**
– Electric mixer
– Mixing bowls
– Piping bag with a large star tip
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
**Ingredient Swaps and Additions**
Feel free to add a touch of peppermint extract for a minty twist or use different colored sprinkles to match your holiday theme. For a chocolatey version, consider folding in a small amount of cocoa powder.
**Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Beat egg whites and cream of tartar in a mixing bowl until frothy using an electric mixer.
3. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff and glossy peaks form.
4. Mix in vanilla extract and green gel food coloring to your desired shade.
5. Transfer mixture to a piping bag with a star tip and pipe tree shapes on prepared sheets.
6. Decorate with sprinkles and edible glitter.
7. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours until meringues are dry to touch.
8. Cool completely in the oven with the door slightly open.
**Serving Suggestions**
Serve these meringues with hot cocoa or alongside a selection of holiday cookies for a festive treat platter.
**Pro Tips for Success**
Ensure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry to get the best volume from the egg whites. Be patient with the baking time to achieve perfectly crisp meringues.
**Storing and Reheating**
Store in an airtight container at room temperature. They do not require reheating but stay fresh for up to two weeks, making them a great make-ahead treat.
**FAQ Section**
**Q: Can these be made ahead of time?**
A: Yes, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
**Q: Can I freeze these meringues?**
A: It’s not recommended as they might lose their crisp texture.
**Conclusion**
In just a few steps, you can create these charming Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies, bringing joy and delight to your holiday festivities. We’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a review, share photos, or tag us on Pinterest or Instagram.
**Nutritional Information**
Approximate per cookie: Calories: 25, Carbohydrates: 6g, Protein: 0g, Fat: 0g
