Holiday Meringue Trees

The holiday season is here, and nothing says celebration like sweet treats that delight both the eyes and the taste buds! These Holiday Meringue Trees are light, crisp, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making them the perfect addition to your festive dessert spread. Whether you’re hosting a party, making edible gifts, or simply adding a whimsical touch to your holiday table, these colorful meringues are sure to impress.

Ready to create these magical treats? Let’s dive into the recipe! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get more festive recipes straight to your inbox.

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Meringue Trees❤️

1. Festive & Fun: These meringues bring holiday cheer with their tree-like shapes and vibrant colors.
2. Light & Airy: Perfectly crisp yet delicate, they dissolve in your mouth like sugary snowflakes.
3. Easy to Customize: From colors to decorations, you can personalize them to match your holiday theme.
4. Perfect for Gifting: Packaged in a clear box with a ribbon, they make a charming homemade gift!

What Do They Taste Like?

These holiday meringues are subtly sweet with a hint of vanilla, enhanced by the crisp texture that’s light as air. The delicate crunch gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth finish, making them irresistible for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Food coloring: Red, green, and white
• Sprinkles: For decoration

Tools You’ll Need

• Electric mixer
• Piping bags with star-shaped and round tips
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Meringue

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt at medium speed until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat.
3. Once all the sugar is incorporated, increase the speed to high and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form (5-7 minutes).
4. Add the vanilla extract and mix gently.

3. Add the Colors

1. Divide the meringue into separate bowls.
2. Add a few drops of food coloring to each and fold gently for a marbled effect or mix thoroughly for solid colors.

4. Pipe the Trees

1. Fit a piping bag with a star-shaped tip.
2. Pipe the meringue onto the prepared baking sheets in tree shapes: Start with a wide base and swirl upward to form a cone.

5. Bake to Perfection

1. Bake the meringues for 1 ½ to 2 hours until crisp and they peel easily off the parchment.
2. Turn off the oven, leaving the door slightly ajar, and allow them to cool inside for another hour to dry completely.

6. Decorate!

Once cooled, add sprinkles, edible glitter, or other festive decorations to bring your meringue trees to life.

Serving Suggestions

• Dessert Platter: Pair these meringues with holiday cookies and fudge for a beautiful display.
• Hot Cocoa Companion: Serve alongside a warm cup of cocoa for a cozy treat.
• Gifting Idea: Package in clear cellophane bags with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Storage Tips

Store your holiday meringues in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks—if they last that long! Avoid storing them in a humid environment, as moisture can soften them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Meringues store well and can be made a few days in advance. Just ensure they’re kept in an airtight container.

What if my meringue isn’t stiffening?

Ensure your mixing bowl and whisk are clean and dry, as any grease or moisture can affect the egg whites. Also, room-temperature eggs work best.

Can I skip the food coloring?

Of course! You can make pure white meringue trees and decorate them with silver or gold sprinkles for an elegant touch.

Tips for Picture-Perfect Meringues

1. Achieving Glossy Peaks

Whip the egg whites until they’re stiff and glossy, but not over-beaten. Over-mixing can cause the meringue to collapse.

2. Swirled Colors

Add a drop of each color to the piping bag before filling it with meringue for a multi-colored swirl effect.

3. No Cracks!

Bake the meringues at a low temperature to avoid cracking. Cooling in the oven helps them dry slowly, maintaining their shape.

Bring the Magic Home 🎄

These Holiday Meringue Trees are as delightful to make as they are to eat. Their whimsical design, customizable colors, and light texture make them a showstopper at any holiday event. I can’t wait to see your creations!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Pinterest and tag me—I’d love to see how your festive meringues turned out. Looking for more holiday inspiration? Check out these other seasonal favorites:

• Christmas Stocking Sugar Cookies
• Gingerbread Cake
• Christmas Cake: A Festive Masterpiece

Let’s make this holiday season delicious! 🎅🎁

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