Ingredients:
4 large egg whites (room temperature)
1 cup granulated sugar
½ tsp cream of tartar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Green gel food coloring
Mini candy stars or sprinkles (for decoration)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Whip the Egg Whites:
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed using a hand mixer or stand mixer until frothy. Add the cream of tartar and continue beating. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
Add Vanilla and Color:
Beat in the vanilla extract. Then, add a small amount of green gel food coloring and gently fold it in until evenly distributed. Adjust the color to your desired shade of green.
Pipe the Meringue Trees:
Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip. Pipe tree shapes onto the prepared baking sheets by piping small circles that taper as you pipe upward, creating a Christmas tree effect.
Decorate:
Add mini candy stars or sprinkles to the meringue trees for decoration.
Bake:
Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until they are dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper. Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside for about 1 hour.
Serve or Store:
Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect if desired. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Enjoy these festive treats!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Bake Time: 2 hours | Total Time: ~3 hours
Servings: 24 cookies