When it comes to desserts, there’s nothing quite like the sweet and airy allure of a well-crafted meringue. Whether you’re looking for a classic French dessert or something more modern and innovative, meringues are sure to impress. In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world, exploring 20 delicious meringue recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From the simple yet elegant Classic French Meringue to the decadent Swiss Meringue Buttercream, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of flavors and textures. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and fruity or rich and chocolatey, there’s a meringue recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
So, let’s get started and see what wonders these airy treats have in store for us!
Classic French Meringue
Elevate your baking with this timeless classic: a light-as-air meringue that’s perfect for topping pies, cakes, or serving as a sweet treat on its own.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar, whisking continuously until stiff peaks form.
4. Transfer mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
5. Pipe meringue onto prepared baking sheet in desired shape (e.g., kisses or a single layer).
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until meringue is dry and crisp.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Swiss Meringue Buttercream
Elevate your baking game with this rich and creamy Swiss Meringue Buttercream recipe, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. With its silky smooth texture and sweet vanilla flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites (about 4 large eggs)
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and 1/2 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Increase heat to medium-high and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and slowly pour into a large mixing bowl with egg whites, whisking continuously.
4. Beat mixture on high speed until stiff peaks form (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
Cooking Time: None
Italian Meringue Pie
Italian Meringue Pie Recipe
A classic Italian dessert, this meringue pie is a showstopper with its crispy, golden-brown crust and fluffy, sweet filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 9-inch (23cm) pie crust
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat.
3. Cook until the syrup reaches 235°F (118°C), or the soft-ball stage.
4. Remove from heat; let cool slightly.
5. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
6. Slowly pour the warm syrup into the egg mixture while beating continuously.
7. Beat for an additional 2-3 minutes until stiff peaks form.
8. Fold in melted butter until fully incorporated.
9. Pour filling into the pie crust.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pavlova with Fresh Berries
This classic Australian dessert is a showstopper at any gathering, thanks to its meringue base topped with a colorful medley of fresh berries. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this sweet treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold water
– Fresh berries of your choice (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add flour, salt, and water; mix until just combined.
4. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in desired shape.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow pavlova to cool completely before topping with fresh berries and whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (if using).
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra berries if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Chocolate Meringue Cookies
These chewy cookies are filled with a rich chocolate center, topped with a fluffy meringue, and finished with a crispy edge.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly puffed.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes.
8. Top with meringue mixture (see below) and return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until meringue is golden brown.
Meringue Mixture:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg whites
Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over cooled cookies.
Lemon Meringue Tart
Brighten up your day with this classic dessert, featuring a tangy lemon curd and a fluffy meringue topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 1 cup meringue topping (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, sugar, egg yolks, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour the lemon curd into the pastry-lined tart pan.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
6. Spread meringue topping over the warm tart.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
Toasted Coconut Meringue Cake
Toasted Coconut Meringue Cake Recipe
This decadent cake combines the sweetness of toasted coconut with the lightness of meringue, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. With its tender crumb and golden topping, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes
– Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add egg whites and cream of tartar; whisk until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
4. Fold in toasted coconut flakes. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Top with meringue topping (recipe not included) and bake an additional 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Raspberry Meringue Roulade
This classic dessert is a show-stopper with its swirls of raspberry filling and crispy meringue topping. With just a few ingredients, you can impress your friends and family with this elegant treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons raspberry jam
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Sift flour and salt over the mixture; gently fold until combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Allow to cool completely before spreading raspberry jam on top.
7. Roll up the meringue, starting from one long side. Slice into rounds and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Espresso Meringue Kisses
A delicate balance of rich espresso and sweet meringue creates a perfect treat for coffee lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 shots (60ml) strong espresso
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and egg whites until stiff peaks form.
3. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour in espresso shots; whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each kiss.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until meringues are crisp and dry.
7. Allow kisses to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pistachio Meringue Sandwiches
Pistachio Meringue Sandwiches: A Delicate Treat
These delicate sandwiches are perfect for a sweet treat or as a unique dessert option for your next gathering. Crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside, they’re flavored with the subtle nutty taste of pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– Food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in the chopped pistachios.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small mounds (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the meringues are dry and crisp on the outside.
6. Allow the meringues to cool completely before sandwiching two together with a dollop of your favorite filling (such as whipped cream or chocolate ganache). Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Vanilla Bean Meringue Nests
Elevate your dessert game with these delicate, crunchy meringue nests infused with the sweetness of vanilla bean.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped vanilla beans (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whip egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form.
4. Add vanilla extract and chopped vanilla beans; fold gently until combined.
5. Spoon small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each nest.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Tips: Store meringue nests in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Perfect for topping with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or chocolate shavings!
Matcha Green Tea Meringues
Elevate your dessert game with these delicate and flavorful Matcha Green Tea Meringues, infused with the subtle bitterness of Japanese green tea.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon matcha powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 3 large egg whites
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and matcha powder.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, whipping until stiff peaks form.
5. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small rounds.
6. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until crisp and lightly browned.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Salted Caramel Meringue Bars
These bars combine the richness of caramel and saltiness of flaky sea salt with the lightness of meringue, creating a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce over the crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until caramel is bubbly.
4. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue over warm caramel layer.
5. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until meringue is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blackberry Meringue Parfait
Elevate your dessert game with this delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Layers of blackberries, whipped cream, and crispy meringue come together to create a show-stopping parfait that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until smooth.
4. Spoon blackberries into a parfait glass or tall clear cup.
5. Top blackberries with whipped cream.
6. Place meringue on top of whipped cream.
7. Bake meringue for 1-2 hours, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Almond Meringue Dacquoise
Elevate your dessert game with this light-as-air Almond Meringue Dacquoise, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in sliced almonds and salt.
4. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in desired shape.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the meringue, then sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Orange Blossom Meringue Cupcakes
These cupcakes are a bright and cheerful treat that combines the sweetness of orange blossom water with the lightness of meringue. Perfect for springtime or anytime you need a pick-me-up!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Meringue topping (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add milk, eggs, orange blossom water, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Meringue Topping:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg white
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Top cooled cupcakes with meringue and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Peanut Butter Meringue Clouds
These meringue clouds are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, with the added richness of peanut butter. Perfect for a quick snack or as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add the peanut butter and salt; mix until well combined.
4. Spoon small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 1-2 hours or until the meringues are dry and crisp.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Passionfruit Meringue Pavlova
A classic Australian dessert gets a tropical twist with the sweetness of passionfruit and the crunch of meringue.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) passionfruit puree
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh mint leaves and whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in a flat disk shape.
4. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
5. Allow meringue to cool completely.
6. In a separate bowl, whip softened butter and passionfruit puree until smooth.
7. Assemble pavlova by spreading whipped butter mixture over cooled meringue. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours (meringue), 10 minutes (whipped butter mixture)
Gingerbread Spiced Meringues
Add a warm touch to your holiday gatherings with these delightful gingerbread spiced meringues. The combination of crystallized ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg will transport you to a cozy winter wonderland.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form.
4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla extract; fold until well combined.
5. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in small mounds.
6. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until dry and crisp.
7. Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Rosewater Meringue Macarons
These elegant macarons combine the classic French meringue-based cookie with the exotic flavor of rosewater, creating a unique and intriguing dessert. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) almond flour
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon rosewater
– Food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
4. Gradually add rosewater while continuing to whip.
5. Fold the egg mixture into the almond flour mixture until well combined.
6. Pipe onto prepared baking sheet in desired shape.
7. Tap baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles.
8. Let sit for 30 minutes to allow macarons to form a skin.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the sweetness of meringue with these 20 delicious recipes for every occasion! From classic French meringue to modern twists like toasted coconut cake and matcha green tea meringues, there’s something for everyone. Try making a show-stopping Italian meringue pie or a refreshing raspberry roulade. Or, go sweet with chocolate meringue cookies or lemon meringue tart. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert or an impressive centerpiece, these recipes will satisfy your meringue cravings and inspire your baking creativity.
