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Perfect Meringue Recipe

4.5 from 66 reviews

This classic meringue recipe yields light, fluffy, and glossy meringue perfect for topping pies or creating delicate cookies. Using simple ingredients like egg whites, cream of tartar, and sugar, it whips into stiff peaks and bakes to a golden finish that adds both texture and sweetness to your desserts.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/4 cup sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare Egg Whites: Remove eggs from the refrigerator and carefully separate the egg whites while cold to ensure they separate best without any yolk contamination.
  2. Bring to Room Temperature: Allow the separated egg whites to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, which helps them whip to their fullest volume.
  3. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to be ready for baking the meringue.
  4. Start Whipping: Pour the egg whites into a spotlessly clean bowl to avoid fat contamination, then whip until glossy and smooth.
  5. Add Cream of Tartar: Mix in 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar, which stabilizes the egg whites and helps maintain their structure.
  6. Incorporate Sugar Gradually: Slowly add sugar about one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition until the sugar has fully dissolved and stiff peaks form, indicating a firm, stable meringue.
  7. Bake the Meringue: Spread the meringue on top of a pre-baked or no-bake dessert. Place it about 4 inches below the oven’s heat source and bake for approximately 10 minutes until the meringue turns a delicate golden color.

Notes

  • Ensure no yolk is mixed with the egg whites for optimal whipping.
  • Use a clean, dry bowl to avoid interference with egg white volume.
  • Allow egg whites to come to room temperature before whipping for better volume.
  • Sugar should be added slowly to allow it to dissolve completely and stabilize the meringue.
  • This meringue can be used as a topping for pies or baked separately as cookies if desired.

Keywords: meringue, egg whites, dessert topping, cream of tartar, sugar, baking, fluffy, light dessert