Colored marshmallows

Colored meringues – an explosion of sweetness and color

Who doesn't love meringues? These airy delights, slightly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, remind us of childhood, of moments when we enjoyed something sweet and playful. Colored meringues are not just a quick and simple dessert, but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of joy to any day. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve perfect meringues, sharing some useful tips to customize them to your liking.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 30-40 meringues

Ingredients:

- 10 egg whites
- 20 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- A pinch of salt
- Food coloring (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the oven and utensils. Start by preheating the oven to a medium temperature, about 150°C. It is important that the temperature is moderate, allowing the meringues to dry without browning too quickly. Choose a deep glass or metal bowl, avoiding plastic ones as they can retain moisture.

2. Beating the egg whites. In a large, clean bowl, add the egg whites. Make sure no yolk has entered, as it can prevent the foam from forming properly. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the egg whites until they start to form foam. This process will take a few minutes.

3. Adding the sugar. Once the foam begins to form, gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, without stopping mixing. It is essential to add the sugar little by little to achieve a firm and stable foam. Continue mixing until you obtain a stiff consistency and the mixture becomes glossy.

4. Incorporating additional ingredients. Add the vanilla sugar, salt, lemon juice, and cornstarch. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor of the meringues but also contribute to their stability. Continue mixing until all ingredients are fully integrated.

5. Coloring the meringues. If you want to add a splash of color, now is the time to add the food coloring. You can create patterns by mixing colors or opt for a uniform shade. It is important not to overdo the coloring; a drop or two is enough for a pleasant visual effect.

6. Shaping the meringues. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Use a teaspoon to place dollops of the mixture, leaving about 5 centimeters between them. If you want to create more elaborate shapes, you can use a piping bag with various nozzles to achieve decorative patterns.

7. Baking. Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes. The meringues are ready when they take on a slight golden hue and easily detach from the parchment paper.

8. Cooling. Once baked, let the meringues cool completely on the tray. This step is essential, as the meringues need to stabilize. After they have cooled, carefully peel them off the parchment paper.

9. Storing the meringues. Meringues store very well in airtight plastic containers. This way, they will remain crispy and will not become soggy. It is recommended to consume them cold, as their texture becomes even more pleasant.

Useful tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Use quality powdered sugar to achieve a fine mixture. Vanilla sugar can be replaced with vanilla extract, but ensure it is of good quality.

- Vegan option: If you want a vegan version, you can use aquafaba (chickpea brine) instead of egg whites. It whips similarly to egg whites and you will get delicious meringues.

- Flavor enhancements: Instead of lemon juice, you can use orange juice or almond extract for a different flavor.

- Serving suggestions: You can serve meringues alongside ice cream, in combination with fruit jam, or as part of a delicious pavlova.

Nutritional benefits:

Meringues are a relatively light dessert, averaging 25 calories per piece, although this number may vary depending on the ingredients used. Egg whites are a good source of protein, and sugar provides quick energy. However, it is best to consume them in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use boxed egg whites? It is recommended to use fresh egg whites, as they whip better and provide a more pleasant texture.

- How can I tell if the meringues are done? Meringues are done when they are dry on the outside and easily detach from the parchment paper. If they are still sticky, they need more baking time.

- What do I do if I don't have cornstarch? If you don't have cornstarch, you can omit this ingredient, but the meringues will be slightly softer.

In conclusion, colored meringues are not just a delicious dessert, but also a wonderful way to experiment in the kitchen. Whether you serve them at a party or make them for yourself and your family, these meringues are sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, unleash your creativity and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!

 Ingredients: 10 egg whites, 20 tablespoons powdered sugar, 2 packets vanilla sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 pinch of salt