Meringue Nests Pretty. Simple. Sweet. from prettysimplesweet.com
Introduction
Meringue nests are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that can be customized to your liking. They are light, airy, and sweet, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or just want something sweet to snack on, these meringue nests are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
To make meringue nests, you will need the following ingredients:
4 egg whites
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp white vinegar
1 tsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
To make meringue nests, follow these simple steps:
Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
Add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. This will take about 8-10 minutes.
Add the vinegar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Spoon the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming small nests. Make sure to leave enough space between each nest so they don’t stick together as they bake.
Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the nests are dry and crispy on the outside. You can check to see if they are done by gently tapping the tops of the nests - they should be firm and not sticky.
Remove the nests from the oven and let them cool completely before filling them with your desired toppings.
Nutrition
Here is the nutritional information for meringue nests (per serving):
Calories: 60
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 15mg
Variations and Toppings
Meringue nests are incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. Here are some variations and toppings to consider:
Flavor Variations
Add a few drops of food coloring to the meringue mixture for a fun and colorful twist.
Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the meringue mixture for chocolate-flavored nests.
Add 1/2 tsp of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty flavor.
Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts or coconut flakes for a crunchy texture.
Toppings
The possibilities for toppings are endless! Here are some ideas to get you started:
Whipped cream and fresh berries
Lemon curd and toasted coconut
Chocolate ganache and chopped nuts
Peanut butter and jelly
Marshmallow fluff and chocolate chips
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the perfect meringue nests:
Room Temperature
Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before you start beating them. This will ensure that they whip up to their fullest volume.
Clean Bowl
Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease or residue. Any residual oil can prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly.
Sugar
Add the sugar slowly, one tablespoon at a time, to ensure that it dissolves completely and doesn’t weigh down the egg whites.
Cornstarch and Vinegar
The cornstarch and vinegar help to stabilize the meringue and prevent it from collapsing. Make sure to mix them in well.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the meringue nests at a low temperature (200°F) for a long time (2-3 hours) to ensure that they dry out completely and don’t collapse. If they are still soft or sticky after baking, they need more time in the oven.
Cooling
Let the meringue nests cool completely before filling them with your desired toppings. This will prevent the toppings from melting and the nests from getting soggy.
Conclusion
Meringue nests are a delicious and versatile dessert that can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer sweet or savory toppings, these light and airy nests are the perfect vessel for your favorite flavors. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be making perfect meringue nests in no time!