Are you a dessert lover looking for a sweet treat that’s light, airy, and utterly divine? Look no further! Meringues are the perfect solution. These crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside confections can be flavored in countless ways to suit any taste. From classic French meringue to decadent chocolate meringue cookies, we’ve gathered 18 of the most mouth-watering meringue recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of meringues, exploring the art of making these delicate treats and showcasing our favorite recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find inspiration in our collection of meringue-based desserts that are sure to impress friends and family.
Classic French Meringue
Classic French Meringue Recipe
A timeless dessert that’s both elegant and delicious, classic French meringue is a staple of any pastry repertoire. With just three ingredients and minimal equipment, this recipe will have you whipping up a cloud-like confection in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add the sugar to the egg mixture, beating continuously until stiff peaks form.
4. Transfer the meringue to the prepared baking sheet and shape into desired forms (e.g., individual mounds or a large sheet).
5. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the meringue is dry and crisp.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 – 2 hours
Tips:
– Ensure all equipment and utensils are spotlessly clean to prevent any contamination.
– Don’t overmix the meringue, as this can cause it to become too dense.
– Store meringues in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Swiss Meringue Buttercream
This classic recipe yields a rich and creamy buttercream with a silky texture, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. With its subtle sweetness and hint of vanilla, this meringue-based buttercream is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and slowly pour into egg whites in a large mixing bowl.
4. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed for about 5 minutes, or until mixture is thick and fluffy.
5. Add softened butter and beat until fully incorporated.
6. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. Use immediately or store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Pavlova with Fresh Berries
This classic Australian dessert is a show-stopper, featuring a crispy meringue shell topped with whipped cream and a vibrant arrangement of fresh berries. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this sweet treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in a round shape.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow meringue to cool completely.
7. Whip heavy cream until smooth. Top cooled meringue with whipped cream and arrange fresh berries on top.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Lemon Meringue Pie
Brighten up your dessert plate with this classic and tangy lemon meringue pie. A perfect blend of citrusy sweetness and fluffy meringue, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Meringue topping ingredients: 3 large egg whites, 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, egg yolks, sugar, and flour.
3. Add melted butter and milk; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour filling into pie crust and bake for 15 minutes.
5. Prepare meringue topping by beating egg whites and gradually adding sugar.
6. Spread meringue over pie and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Meringue Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are packed with dark chocolate chunks and topped with a sweet meringue topping, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Meringue topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
3. Gradually mix in flour and chocolate chips.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and top with meringue topping (see below).
Meringue Topping:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup egg whites
Beat until stiff peaks form.
Toasted Coconut Meringue Cake
This show-stopping cake combines the brightness of toasted coconut with the lightness of a classic meringue, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, toasted coconut, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg whites, and cream of tartar until smooth.
4. Gradually pour dry ingredients into wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
7. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Raspberry Meringue Roulade
This raspberry meringue roulade is a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of meringue with the tartness of fresh raspberries. With its elegant appearance and flavorful filling, it’s perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Sift flour over egg mixture and fold gently.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and smooth to an even thickness.
6. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until meringue is dry and crisp.
7. Allow meringue to cool completely.
8. In a separate bowl, whip softened butter until light and fluffy.
9. Fold in fresh raspberries and confectioners’ sugar.
10. Place cooled meringue on a flat surface and spread raspberry filling evenly.
11. Roll up meringue tightly and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Eton Mess with Homemade Meringue
Eton Mess, a classic British dessert, gets an upgrade with homemade meringue adding a touch of elegance. This recipe combines crispy meringue shards with whipped cream and sweet strawberries for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups sliced strawberries
• 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
4. Spoon meringue onto prepared baking sheet in desired shapes.
5. Bake for 1-2 hours or until crisp and dry.
6. Whip heavy whipping cream with honey until smooth.
7. Fold whipped cream into crushed meringue shards.
8. Layer with sliced strawberries to serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (meringue), 10 minutes (whipped cream)
Espresso Meringue Kisses
Elevate your dessert game with these rich and decadent Espresso Meringue Kisses, perfect for coffee lovers and anyone seeking a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 large egg white
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk milk and egg white until frothy. Add softened butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold in espresso powder.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes or until crisp and dry.
8. Allow kisses to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Passionfruit Meringue Tart
A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of passionfruit with a crispy meringue topping, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch tart crust
– 1 cup passionfruit puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup meringue topping (see below)
Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out tart crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together passionfruit puree and sugar until well combined.
4. Pour the passionfruit mixture into the tart crust.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set.
6. While the tart is baking, prepare meringue topping by whipping egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
7. Remove tart from oven and spread meringue topping evenly over the filling.
8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until meringue is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Vanilla Bean Meringue Clouds
Lighten up your dessert game with these airy Vanilla Bean Meringue Clouds, infused with the sweetness of vanilla and a touch of saltiness.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 bean, split lengthwise and seeds removed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites, sugar, cream of tartar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
3. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
4. Fold in the split vanilla bean.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each cloud.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until dry and crisp.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Matcha Meringue Sandwiches
Combine the bright green tea flavor of matcha with the lightness and crunch of meringues, and you’ll have a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg white
– 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whip the egg white and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar and matcha powder, whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Spoon small mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Sandwich with whipped cream or buttercream frosting, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Pistachio Meringue Bites
Pistachio Meringue Bites: Sweet and Savory Delights
These bite-sized treats combine the nutty flavor of pistachios with the light, airy texture of meringues. Perfect for snacking or as a topping for salads or yogurt parfaits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (30g) shelled pistachios, chopped
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, egg whites, and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in chopped pistachios and melted butter. Season with salt to taste.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized mounds onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until firm to the touch.
6. Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Blackberry Meringue Pie
This classic pie combines the sweetness of blackberries with the lightness of meringue, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be enjoying this sweet treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix blackberries, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Add water and melted butter; stir until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Fill pie crust with blackberry mixture.
6. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
7. Gradually add granulated sugar to egg whites; beat until stiff peaks remain.
8. Spread meringue over filling, making sure to seal edges.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until meringue is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Almond Meringue Cake with Whipped Cream
This classic French dessert combines the delicate flavors of almond and meringue with a dollop of whipped cream, creating a heavenly treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar, whisking until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in almonds and milk until well combined.
5. Pour batter onto prepared baking sheet and smooth out.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
8. For whipped cream, beat softened butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
9. Top cooled meringue with whipped cream and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Hazelnut Meringue Cookies
These crispy-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside cookies are infused with the rich flavor of hazelnuts. Perfect for a sweet snack or as a unique addition to your holiday cookie plate.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) hazelnuts, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add vanilla extract and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold chopped hazelnuts into the egg mixture until well combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until meringues are crisp and dry.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Orange Blossom Meringue Drops
Orange Blossom Meringue Drops: Delightful bite-sized treats infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of orange blossom water, perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Add orange blossom water to the egg mixture and gently fold until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and fold until smooth.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
7. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until meringues are dry and crisp.
8. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Strawberry Meringue Parfait
Discover a sweet and tangy treat that combines the freshness of strawberries with the lightness of meringue, all layered on top of crunchy cookies. This parfait is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 6-8 vanilla wafers, crushed
– Whipped cream and additional strawberry slices for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, granulated sugar, egg whites, and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
3. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until dry and crisp.
5. Cut meringues into desired size for parfait. Layer with crushed wafers, sliced strawberries, and whipped cream (if using).
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these 18 fluffy meringue recipes! From classic French meringue and Swiss meringue buttercream to creative concoctions like toasted coconut cake and matcha sandwich cookies, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Learn how to make pavlova with fresh berries, lemon meringue pie, and chocolate meringue cookies, among many other delicious treats.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
