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Tree Meringue Cookies

Bring the magic of the holidays to life with these whimsical Tree Meringue Cookies! These light and airy cookies are made from whipped egg whites, granulated sugar, and a hint of vanilla, creating a melt-in-your-mouth treat. Shaped like festive trees and decorated with sprinkles or edible glitter, they’re perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as a decorative treat on your dessert table. Easy to make and stunning to serve, these cookies are a must-try for the season! Meringue recipes, holiday cookie ideas, and Christmas tree cookies are trending now, making this recipe a festive favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large egg whites, room temperature
  • 1 cup fine granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Gel food coloring (green or your desired tree color)
  • Holiday sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)

Instructions

  • Prepare Your Baking Tools:
    • Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
    • Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  • Whip the Egg Whites:
    • In a clean, grease-free mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy.
    • Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
  • Add Sugar Gradually:
    • Increase the mixer speed to high and slowly add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time.
    • Beat until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks, and the sugar has fully dissolved (rub a small amount between your fingers to check).
  • Incorporate Vanilla and Coloring:
    • Gently fold in the vanilla extract and a few drops of gel food coloring, mixing until the desired color is achieved. Be careful not to deflate the meringue.
  • Pipe the Trees:
    • Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe tree shapes onto the prepared baking sheets by layering decreasingly smaller dollops.
    • Decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter if desired.
  • Bake the Meringues:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5–2 hours, or until the meringues are dry to the touch and easily release from the parchment paper.
    • Turn off the oven and let the cookies cool inside for an additional hour to prevent cracking.
  • Serve or Store:
    • Once cooled, enjoy your cookies immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

  • Egg White Tips: Ensure no yolk contaminates the whites, and use a clean, dry bowl to achieve the best whip.
  • Humidity Warning: Avoid making meringues on a humid day, as moisture in the air can affect their texture.
  • Alternative Flavors: Swap vanilla extract with almond or peppermint for a festive twist.

Keywords: Tree Meringue Cookies, holiday meringues, Christmas tree cookies, festive meringue recipes, gluten-free holiday desserts