Tree Meringue Cookies

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Looking for a festive and whimsical treat that melts in your mouth and dazzles on the dessert table? These Tree Meringue Cookies might just become your next holiday baking favorite. Crisp on the outside, airy on the inside, and styled like charming little Christmas trees, they bring joy to both the eyes and the palate.

Perfect for cookie exchanges, edible gifts, or a delicate centerpiece on your dessert platter, these cookies offer a simple yet elegant way to celebrate the season. With just a few pantry staples and a dash of creativity, you can whip up a batch of these magical treats that are as fun to make as they are to eat.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To achieve the perfect Tree Meringue Cookies, preparation is everything. Start by assembling the essential tools:

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer with Whisk Attachment: Meringues need stiff peaks, which require high-speed whipping. A stand mixer makes this task effortless and consistent.
• Piping Bags and Star Tip Nozzles: These help create the iconic tree shape. The star tip adds texture and height, mimicking pine branches.
• Silicone Baking Mat or Parchment Paper: Ensures the meringues don’t stick and bake evenly.
• Oven Thermometer: Meringues are sensitive to temperature, and even slight deviations can cause cracking or browning.
• Spatula and Mixing Bowls: For gentle folding and clean mixing without deflating the whipped egg whites.

Setting your tools up in advance sets the stage for a smooth baking session and flawless cookies.

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Ingredients for the Tree Meringue Cookies

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the structure and sweetness of your cookies:

• Egg Whites: These are the base of your meringue. When whipped, they trap air and create the signature light texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Stabilizes the whipped egg whites and adds sweetness. Slowly adding it ensures a glossy, stiff meringue.
• Cream of Tartar: Acts as a stabilizer, helping the egg whites hold their shape longer and whip up more voluminously.
• Vanilla Extract: A small touch brings a warm, sweet aroma to your cookies.
• Green Gel Food Coloring: Gives the meringues their festive tree-like appearance. Gel is preferred for its intense color without altering texture.
• Holiday Sprinkles or Stars: Adds the finishing touch, mimicking ornaments and tree toppers.

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How To Make the Tree Meringue Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set up your piping bag with a large star tip.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and continue whipping until soft peaks form.

Step 3: Incorporate Sugar Slowly

With the mixer on high, gradually add the sugar a tablespoon at a time. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. The meringue should be smooth and shiny.

Step 4: Add Flavor and Color

Gently fold in vanilla extract and a few drops of green gel food coloring until fully incorporated. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Pipe the Trees

Transfer the meringue to your prepared piping bag. Pipe tall tree shapes onto your baking sheet, layering to create height. Add sprinkles and a star on top.

Step 6: Bake Low and Slow

Bake for 1.5 hours, then turn off the oven and let the meringues sit inside for another hour to dry completely without cracking.

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Serving and Storing Your Tree Meringue Cookies

These cookies are best enjoyed as a light dessert or decorative sweet addition to your holiday table. Serve them on a tiered stand or arrange them on a platter with festive decor for a visually stunning effect. Their crunchy yet airy texture makes them a delightful bite alongside hot cocoa, coffee, or even a wintery cocktail.

For storing, place the completely cooled meringues in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature in a dry place, where they’ll stay crisp for up to 2 weeks. Avoid storing in the fridge, as humidity can soften and ruin their texture. For gifting, wrap them in cellophane bags with ribbon for a charming homemade treat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the meringue is ready?

You’ll know it’s ready when stiff, glossy peaks form, and the mixture holds its shape without collapsing. Rub a bit between your fingers; if it feels grainy, keep mixing until smooth.

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?

It’s best to stick with gel food coloring. Liquid versions can affect the consistency and stability of the meringue.

What causes meringue to crack or weep?

Cracking usually happens due to baking at too high a temperature. Weeping (liquid seeping out) is often a result of under-beating or adding sugar too quickly.

Can I flavor the meringue with something other than vanilla?

Absolutely! Peppermint, almond, or lemon extracts work beautifully—just use a light hand, as too much liquid can destabilize the meringue.

Can I make them in advance?

Yes! These cookies are perfect for make-ahead baking. Store them in a dry container and they’ll stay fresh and crisp for days.

Do I need to use cream of tartar?

While not strictly necessary, cream of tartar significantly improves the stability and volume of your whipped egg whites. If you skip it, results may vary.

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Want More Holiday Cookie Ideas?

If you loved these Tree Meringue Cookies, there’s a whole world of festive treats waiting for you on LadyPlate. For a fruity twist, check out the Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a creamy, sweet delight.

Craving something warm and cozy? The Cinnamon Donut Bread brings comforting spice and softness in every slice. Or lean into the playful side with No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies for a nostalgic, creamy treat.

If you’re looking to pair your meringues with other light and elegant desserts, try the Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes or go citrusy with Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dessert board for later. Just click the Pin button.

If you give these a go, I’d love to see your version! Did you go classic green or experiment with colors? Share your Tree Meringue Cookies with me on Pinterest at LadyPlate and let’s spread the sweetness.

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