Orange Meringue Cookies Recipe – Light & Citrusy Treat

Indulge in these delightful Orange Meringue Cookies that offer a light and refreshing citrus twist! With their airy texture and bright orange flavor, these treats are perfect for any occasion, adding a sweet and tangy touch to your dessert table. Enjoy a bite of sunshine with every cookie!

Ingredients

• 3 large egg whites
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• Zest of 1 orange (finely grated)
• 1 teaspoon orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt and the cream of tartar using an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add the sugar, about a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Beat on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form and the sugar is fully dissolved.
4. Gently fold in the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract (if using) with a spatula, taking care not to deflate the meringue.
5. Using a piping bag or two spoons, place small dollops or shapes of meringue onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meringues are dry and crisp to the touch. Turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside with the door slightly open to cool completely, which helps prevent cracking.
7. Once cooled, store the meringue cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep well for several days.

Variations

1. Replace orange zest with lemon or lime zest for a different citrus flavor.
2. Add a swirl of food-coloring to the meringue for a fun, colorful effect.
3. Top with a chocolate drizzle after baking for a decadent twist.

Cooking Notes

1. Make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry to ensure the best rise in the egg whites.
2. Try to avoid any yolk in the egg whites as it can affect the whipping process.
3. Store in an airtight container to maintain crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve as a light dessert after a hearty meal.
2. Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
3. Use as a topping for fruit salads or ice cream for added flair.

Tips

• For a stronger orange flavor, increase the amount of orange zest.
• If the cookies start to crack, they may need a longer drying time in the oven.
• Experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut for unique flavors.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 35
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 10mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other citrus fruits?
   Yes, lemon or lime can be substituted for a different flavor.

2. Why did my meringues crack?
   They may have been baked at too high a temperature or weren’t dried long enough.

3. How should I store these cookies?
   Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.

4. Can I freeze meringue cookies?
   They don’t freeze well, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh.

Conclusion

These Orange Meringue Cookies are the perfect light and airy treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. Their delightful citrus flavor and crispy texture make them an irresistible snack. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite beverage, they are sure to brighten your day!

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