Tree Meringue Cookies – Light, Crisp, and Festive!

Hello, holiday bakers! If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly light, these Tree Meringue Cookies are just the treat. Crisp, airy, and topped with a sprinkle of holiday magic, these cookies bring a whimsical touch to any dessert table. They’re perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying alongside a cozy cup of cocoa!

Let’s jump right in and make these delightful treats, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on more festive recipes delivered straight to your inbox!

Why You’ll Love These Tree Meringue Cookies

These cookies are everything we love about the holidays: light, crisp, and delicately sweet. Each bite is melt-in-your-mouth magic, and the meringue tree design adds such a festive flair! Here’s why they’ll be your new holiday favorite:

• Festive Presentation: Adorable Christmas tree shapes bring holiday cheer to any cookie platter.
• Easy to Customize: Decorate with edible glitter, sprinkles, or mini edible ornaments.
• Low-Calorie Indulgence: Light and airy, perfect for a guilt-free holiday snack.
• Impressive yet Simple: They look fancy but are quite simple to make with just a few ingredients!

The Taste and Texture

The taste is a delicate balance of sweet, vanilla-scented meringue on a sturdy sugar cookie base. Each cookie is light and crisp, making it easy to pop a few without feeling weighed down. They’re crunchy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft inside – a winter wonderland in every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 large egg whites (room temperature for best whipping results)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (helps stabilize the meringue)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for a hint of warmth and sweetness)
• Sugar cookies (to serve as the base for each meringue tree)

Tools You’ll Need

• Electric mixer or stand mixer with a whisk attachment
• Piping bag fitted with a star-shaped tip (for the tree effect)
• Baking sheet and parchment paper

Fun Decorating Ideas

To make these cookies extra special, try these festive decorating tips:

• Edible Glitter: A light dusting of edible glitter gives a sparkling, snow-kissed look.
• Colored Sugar Sprinkles: Green, silver, or gold sugar sprinkles add a touch of holiday color.
• Miniature Decorations: Tiny edible pearls or stars create a “tree ornament” effect.
• Icing Snow: Use a small piping bag with royal icing to create a snow-capped look on the branches.

How to Make Tree Meringue Cookies

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This low temperature will help the meringue dry out without browning.

Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until frothy. Add cream of tartar to stabilize the meringue, ensuring a light, airy texture.

Add the Sugar Gradually

With your mixer running, add the sugar one spoonful at a time. Once all the sugar is in, increase the speed to high and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. This will take about 5-7 minutes.

Fold in the Vanilla

Gently fold in the vanilla extract for that delicious hint of warmth.

Pipe the Meringue Trees

Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped tip. Pipe the meringue onto each sugar cookie base in layers, creating a tree shape that starts wide at the bottom and tapers at the top.

Bake

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours. The meringues should be firm and dry to the touch. When finished, turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cookies cool completely in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

These Tree Meringue Cookies pair wonderfully with hot chocolate, tea, or mulled wine. For an extra festive touch, serve them alongside a platter of gingerbread men or other holiday favorites. They also make a charming gift when packaged in clear bags with holiday ribbon.

Tips for Perfect Meringue Trees

1. Room-Temperature Eggs: Room-temperature egg whites whip up fluffier and achieve greater volume.
2. Stiff Peaks: Make sure your meringue forms stiff, glossy peaks before piping. This ensures the cookies hold their shape while baking.
3. Keep the Oven Low and Slow: Baking at a low temperature allows the meringue to dry out without browning, preserving its light color and delicate texture.
4. Cool in the Oven: Allowing the cookies to cool in the turned-off oven helps prevent cracking from temperature changes.

Storage Instructions

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Be sure to keep them away from moisture, as humidity can cause the meringues to soften.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?

Yes! Meringue cookies store well, so you can make them several days in advance. Just keep them in a dry, airtight container until you’re ready to serve.

Can I Use Liquid Food Coloring?

For a touch of color, use a gel-based food coloring as it’s less likely to affect the consistency of the meringue. Mix it in gently just before piping.

What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Cream of Tartar?

If you don’t have cream of tartar, try substituting with a few drops of lemon juice or white vinegar – both will help stabilize the egg whites.

How Do I Know When the Meringues Are Done?

The meringues should be firm and release easily from the parchment paper. If they still feel sticky, give them a little more time in the oven, but be sure to watch closely.

Summing It Up

These Tree Meringue Cookies are the perfect holiday treat! They’re light, crisp, and bursting with festive charm. The decorations are only limited by your imagination, making this recipe a fun family project or holiday gift idea. So, go ahead, give these a try – you’ll love how easy they are and how stunning they look on a holiday table!

Looking for more holiday inspiration? Check out our other festive treats:

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

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