Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Tree Meringue Cookies

Tree Meringue Cookies

Tree Meringue Cookies are light, fluffy, and visually delightful treats perfect for festive celebrations. Made from simple ingredients, these airy cookies offer an elegant, melt-in-your-mouth texture with customizable flavors and colors. Ideal for holiday parties or any special occasion, they are naturally gluten-free and easy to make.

  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: About 24 cookies 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Ingredients

  • Green and red gel or powder food coloring
  • Mini chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients and Equipment: Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and dry to avoid any grease or moisture. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Whip Egg Whites to Soft Peaks: In a large bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foam forms and soft peaks appear, where peaks hold their shape but gently fold over.
  3. Add Cream of Tartar and Gradually Incorporate Sugar: Sprinkle in the cream of tartar and continue whisking. Slowly add granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time, increasing speed to high, until stiff, glossy peaks form that stand firmly when beaters are lifted.
  4. Mix in Vanilla Extract and Optional Colors: Gently fold in vanilla extract. Add a few drops of green food coloring if desired, mixing just until evenly combined to create vibrant tree colors.
  5. Pipe the Tree Shapes: Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle. Pipe triangular “tree” shapes onto the baking sheet by swirling upward in decreasing circles to resemble pine needles.
  6. Add Decorations: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips, red sugar crystals, or colorful sprinkles on top to mimic festive ornaments before baking.
  7. Bake Slowly and Dry: Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours at 200°F (90°C) to ensure cookies become crisp outside yet light inside. After baking, turn off the oven and leave cookies inside to cool completely and dry further.

Notes

  • Use fresh, room temperature eggs for better volume and stability.
  • Add sugar gradually to ensure it dissolves fully for a glossy finish.
  • Avoid baking on humid days to prevent moisture absorption and cracking.
  • A stand mixer with a whisk attachment is recommended for optimal whipping.
  • Practice piping shapes before creating the final trees for best results.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 30
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7.5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: meringue cookies, holiday cookies, gluten-free, light cookies, festive desserts, tree shaped cookies