Description
Chocolate Dipped Meringues are delicate, airy cookies featuring crisp exteriors and soft interiors, elegantly finished with a rich coating of melted chocolate. Naturally gluten-free, these treats are perfect for holiday celebrations, dessert tables, or thoughtful gifting.
Ingredients
Meringue
- 4 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp cream of tartar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating
- 1½ cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Beat egg whites: Using a clean, grease-free mixing bowl and beaters, beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become foamy, indicating initial aeration.
- Add cream of tartar: Incorporate the cream of tartar, then continue beating until soft peaks form, which means the meringue is starting to hold shape but still slightly droops.
- Incorporate sugar gradually: Slowly add sugar one tablespoon at a time, beating continuously until stiff, glossy peaks form, ensuring the meringue is stable and shiny.
- Add vanilla extract: Gently fold in the vanilla extract to infuse flavor without deflating the meringue.
- Pipe meringues: Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip, then pipe mounds onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly.
- Bake: Bake the meringues for 1½ to 2 hours until they are dry and crisp to the touch, which dehydrates and sets their structure.
- Cool in oven: Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside to prevent cracking and encourage even drying.
- Melt chocolate: In short 20–30 second intervals, microwave the chocolate chips with coconut oil, stirring well between sessions until smooth and glossy.
- Dip meringues: Once cooled, dip the bottoms or sides of the meringues into the melted chocolate, coating them partially or fully as desired.
- Set chocolate: Place the dipped meringues on parchment paper and allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature before serving or storing.
Notes
- Ensure all bowls and beaters are completely grease-free to help egg whites whip properly.
- Humidity can prevent meringues from drying correctly, so avoid making them on damp days.
- Store meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain crispness.
- Do not refrigerate meringues, as moisture in the fridge will cause them to soften and lose their texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
