The tinkling of holiday bells and the cozy warmth of twinkling lights set the perfect backdrop for a delicious treat—the White Christmas Peppermint Meringues. These airy delights combine a melt-in-your-mouth texture with the refreshing zing of peppermint, making them a showstopper for any festive gathering. With their delicate red swirls, they not only look stunning but are also a breeze to whip up, offering a gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re planning a holiday party or simply wish to indulge in a homemade dessert, these meringues are a wonderful choice to sweeten the season. Curious about how to create these enchanting bites that bring a festive spirit to any table? Let’s dive into the magic of meringues!

Why Are These Meringues a Must-Try?

Delightfully Light: These meringues have a melt-in-your-mouth quality that captivates your taste buds and leaves you reaching for more.

Festive Appeal: The striking red swirls make these meringues not just tasty, but visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests at your holiday gatherings.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have these treats ready in no time, freeing you up for other holiday preparations.

Versatile Treat: Whether served alongside hot cocoa or as part of a dessert platter, these gluten-free delights fit seamlessly into any festive occasion.

Gift-Worthy Goodness: Looking for a thoughtful homemade gift? These meringues are ideal! Pair them with our Peppermint Meltaways for an extra special treat.

Lasting Crispness: Made to be stored without losing their delightful texture, these meringues will stay fresh for days, making them perfect for enjoyments long after the holiday festivities are over.

White Christmas Peppermint Meringues Ingredients

For the Meringue Base
• Egg Whites – Essential for structure and volume, creating that signature light texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Stabilizes the meringue; superfine sugar is best for smooth incorporation.
• Powdered Sugar – Smooths the texture; you can substitute cornstarch if needed.

For the Flavoring
• Peppermint Extract – Adds a cool, refreshing flavor; adjust to taste for the perfect peppermint hit.
• Red Food Coloring – Creates a festive swirl; natural dyes can be used for a different look.

Elevate your festive gatherings with these delightful White Christmas Peppermint Meringues!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Christmas Peppermint Meringues

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, ensuring they’re ready for the meringue mixture. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect bases for your delightful White Christmas Peppermint Meringues.

Step 2: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, pour in the egg whites and start whisking vigorously until they become frothy. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer will yield the best results here. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes and signals that you’re on your way to creating that airy texture essential for meringues.

Step 3: Gradually Add Sugar
Slowly add the granulated sugar to the whipped egg whites, a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the mixture. Keep whipping for about 5-7 minutes, until the meringue is glossy and forms stiff peaks that hold their shape when you lift the whisk. This glossy finish is a key sign that you are achieving the right consistency.

Step 4: Fold in Powders
Gently sift the powdered sugar into the meringue mixture, then add the peppermint extract and red food coloring. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together until just marbled—be cautious not to overmix. The marbling enhances the festive look of your White Christmas Peppermint Meringues, while maintaining that beautiful white base.

Step 5: Pipe Meringues
Transfer the meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped or round tip. On the prepared parchment-lined sheets, pipe small swirls or dollops of the meringue, ensuring each one is about 1-2 inches apart. This step allows the air to circulate properly, giving your meringues the best drying texture.

Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and let the meringues bake for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. You want them to dry out completely without browning. They are ready when they feel crisp on the outside and lift easily off the parchment paper, showcasing their delicate structure.

Step 7: Cool
Once baked, turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps to firm them up even more, enhancing the airy crunch that makes these White Christmas Peppermint Meringues such a festive treat.

Expert Tips for White Christmas Peppermint Meringues

Clean Equipment: Ensure all mixing bowls and tools are free from grease. Residual oil can hinder the whipping process and lead to flat meringues.
Sugar Type Matters: Use superfine granulated sugar instead of regular sugar for faster and smoother incorporation, resulting in a perfect glossy meringue.
Avoid Humidity: Meringues are sensitive to moisture. Bake on a dry day and store in an airtight container to retain their crispness.
Don’t Rush Baking: Allow the meringues to dry completely without opening the oven door. This helps achieve the ideal crisp texture.
Flavor Adjustment: Tailor the peppermint extract to your taste. Start with a smaller amount and increase if you prefer a bolder peppermint flavor in your White Christmas Peppermint Meringues.

White Christmas Peppermint Meringues Variations

Feel free to get creative with these meringues and tailor them to suit your taste and occasion!

Flavor Swap: Replace peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a uniquely flavored treat. A dash of almond adds a delightful nutty depth.
Candy Cane Crunch: Fold in crushed candy canes into the meringue for an extra festive touch and a satisfying crunch. It’s a delightful surprise that guests will love!
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over cooled meringues to add a rich and indulgent layer. This twist takes them from simple to luxurious!
Natural Color: Use beet juice or matcha powder for natural coloring instead of red food coloring. This gives your meringues a beautiful floral tint or a green hue.
Cocoa Meringues: Add unsweetened cocoa powder to the meringue base for a chocolate twist. The mix of peppermint and chocolate flavors is simply divine!
Meringue Sandwiches: Pipe two meringues of similar size and fill them with whipped cream or your favorite frosting for a delightful meringue sandwich. It’s an elegant way to elevate your dessert table.
Spicy Peppermint: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meringue for a spicy surprise that contrasts the sweet peppermint flavor. It’s a brilliant way to heat things up this holiday season!

As you explore these variations, consider pairing your creations with a warm cup of cocoa or a plate of our delicious Peppermint Meltaways for a perfect festive treat combo! Each twist brings its charm, making your White Christmas Peppermint Meringues even more festive and enjoyable!

How to Store and Freeze White Christmas Peppermint Meringues

Room Temperature: Keep meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid exposing them to humidity to maintain their crisp texture.

Fridge: Storing meringues in the fridge is not recommended, as the moisture can make them chewy. If necessary, place them in an airtight container and consume within 24 hours.

Freezer: For longer storage, meringues can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Ensure they are well-separated using parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: If they lose their crispness after thawing, place them back in a low oven (around 200°F) for 10-15 minutes to restore their delightful crunch. Enjoy your White Christmas Peppermint Meringues!

What to Serve with White Christmas Peppermint Meringues

The magic of the holidays is elevated when you pair these delightful treats with complementary flavors and textures, creating a truly festive experience.

Rich Hot Cocoa: Pair with a mug of velvety hot cocoa for a classic holiday duo that balances the meringues’ lightness. The chocolate richness enhances the peppermint flavor, creating a cozy treat.
Creamy Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream provides a luscious contrast to the crisp meringues. This addition softens each bite and adds a touch of decadence perfect for holiday gatherings.
Festive Fruit Salad: Brighten your dessert table with a colorful fruit salad. Citrus fruits or berries add freshness while their natural sweetness complements the peppermint delicately.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted dark chocolate over the meringues offers a touch of bitterness that beautifully complements their sweetness. This indulgent twist elevates your holiday dessert experience.
Peppermint Bark: For an extra festive touch, serve alongside peppermint bark. The combination enhances the peppermint flavor in the meringues and adds crunchy textures, creating a delightful holiday treat tray.
Sparkling Apple Cider: A glass of bubbly apple cider adds a refreshing effervescence, enhancing holiday cheer. This non-alcoholic option pairs well, accentuating the lighter notes of the meringues.
Iced Coffee: Sip on an iced coffee to juxtapose the airy texture of the meringues. The rich coffee flavor adds depth to this delightful pairing, ensuring a balanced holiday spread.
Chocolate Ganache Tart: For a more indulgent dessert experience, consider serving with a slice of chocolate ganache tart. Its rich, velvety filling contrasts beautifully with the light, airy meringues, creating a luxurious dessert combination.

Make Ahead Options

White Christmas Peppermint Meringues are an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors without the stress. You can whip up the meringue batter and pipe them onto the baking sheets up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the sheets with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, let them come to room temperature before placing them in the oven. Alternatively, baked meringues can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days without losing their crispness. This way, you can prepare ahead for any festive gathering, ensuring that your meringues are just as delicious with minimal effort!

White Christmas Peppermint Meringues Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select egg whites for meringues?
Absolutely! The freshest egg whites make the lightest meringues. Choose large eggs, and if possible, use free-range or organic ones for better flavor. Also, it’s best to separate the whites from the yolks when the eggs are cold, as they separate more easily. Allow the whites to come to room temperature before whipping for optimal volume.

How should I store meringues to maintain their crispness?
Very good question! Store your White Christmas Peppermint Meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them crispy and prevents humidity from ruining their texture. Avoid refrigeration, as the moisture can affect their delightful crunch.

Can I freeze meringues, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze meringues! To freeze your White Christmas Peppermint Meringues, place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours, or restore their crispness by reheating at 200°F for 10-15 minutes.

What should I do if my meringues are sticky or chewy?
Oh no! If your meringues turn out sticky or chewy, it could be because they were exposed to humidity when stored or not baked long enough. To troubleshoot, ensure your baking environment is dry, and consider baking them longer to remove excess moisture. If they seem too soft after thawing from the freezer, popping them back in the oven briefly can help regain that satisfying crunch!

Are White Christmas Peppermint Meringues safe for those with allergies?
These delightful meringues are gluten-free and can be a suitable treat for many dietary needs. However, keep in mind that they contain egg whites, so they are not safe for those with egg allergies. Always check your individual ingredient labels for allergy concerns, especially with the peppermint extract and any food colorings used!