Candy marshmallows

Candy Meringues – A Crispy and Sweet Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 20 meringues

In a world full of sweets, candy meringues stand out for their light texture and sweet-sour taste, while their vibrant color turns them into a true visual feast. This quick dessert is perfect for parties, birthdays, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving. The history of meringues dates back to ancient times, and their recipes have evolved over the years, symbolizing refinement and creativity in the kitchen. Whether enjoyed plain or with various additions, meringues will always bring joy to those who taste them.

The ingredients needed to prepare these candy meringues are simple and easy to find. Here’s what you will need:

Ingredients:
- 4 egg whites (at room temperature)
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Crushed green and red candies (for decoration)

Making meringues is not complicated, but it requires a bit of attention and patience. Now let’s see the necessary steps to achieve the most delicious meringues!

Step 1: Preparing the oven and trays
Start by preheating the oven to 130°C. Meanwhile, line two trays with baking paper. This will help the meringues not to stick and will make cleaning easier after baking.

Step 2: Beating the egg whites
Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature, as this will help achieve a perfect texture. Place the egg whites in a large, clean, and dry bowl. Using an electric mixer, start beating the egg whites on low speed. When you start to get a soft foam, increase the speed to medium. Continue beating until the mixture becomes firm and forms stable peaks, but do not overdo it, as beating too much will make the egg whites grainy.

Step 3: Incorporating the sugar
The next step is to add the powdered sugar. Add it one tablespoon at a time while continuing to beat the mixture at high speed. It is important for the sugar to dissolve completely, and the mixture to become glossy and consistent. This process can take up to 10 minutes. A useful trick is to check if the sugar is completely dissolved by rubbing a small amount of the mixture between your fingers; if you don’t feel any granules, you are ready for the next step.

Step 4: Flavoring
Add the vanilla extract to the meringue mixture and gently fold in with a spatula to incorporate the delicious aroma.

Step 5: Shaping the meringues
Transfer the meringue mixture into a piping bag. This will make it easier to create the desired shapes. Pipe meringues about 3-4 cm on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between them, as they will expand slightly while baking.

Step 6: Baking the meringues
Place the trays in the preheated oven and reduce the temperature to 120°C. Bake the meringues for about 40 minutes. It is important not to open the oven door during baking, as a sudden temperature change could affect the texture.

Step 7: Decorating with candies
After the first 40 minutes, remove the meringues from the oven and quickly add some crushed candies on each meringue. This detail will give them a festive look and a delicious taste. Then, return the meringues to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes.

Step 8: Cooling the meringues
Once the meringues are baked, turn off the oven and leave them inside to cool gradually. This method will help the meringues stabilize and become crispy.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the bowl and mixer paddles are completely clean and dry, with no trace of fat, to achieve perfect meringue.
- You can experiment with flavors by adding a few drops of essential orange or lemon oil for a fresh note.
- If you have natural food coloring, add it to the meringue mixture to create colored meringues that match the holiday or desired theme.

Nutritional benefits:
Meringues are a lighter dessert option compared to other cakes. Egg whites are rich in protein, and powdered sugar provides quick energy. Of course, it is important to consume them in moderation, especially if you are watching your caloric intake. A serving of meringues contains about 50 calories.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?
It is not recommended, as powdered sugar dissolves more easily in the meringue mixture.
- Can I replace egg whites with a vegan substitute?
There are plant-based alternatives, such as aquafaba (chickpea water), which can be used as a substitute, but the final result may vary.
- How can I store the meringues?
Store the meringues in an airtight container at room temperature, away from moisture, to keep them crispy.

Candy meringues are a delight that pleases not only the taste buds but also the eyes. They are perfect to be served alongside a refreshing lemonade or a fragrant tea, bringing an extra touch of joy to any meal. Don’t hesitate to try them and customize them according to your preferences! Enjoy!