Get ready to transform your holiday dessert table with these enchanting Chocolate Peppermint Meringue Christmas Trees that are not just a treat, but a festive work of art! Imagine delicate, crisp green meringues shaped like miniature Christmas trees, drizzled with rich chocolate and sparkling with holiday sprinkles - these delightful confections are guaranteed to make your guests' jaws drop and taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pastry chef, these whimsical trees are surprisingly simple to create and will become the star of your holiday spread.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 trees
Ingredients
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring
- Chocolate melts for decoration
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Ensure all equipment is completely clean and free from any grease. Separate egg whites carefully, making sure no yolk is present.
- In a large, clean mixing bowl, add egg whites and cream of tartar. Begin beating with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat. Increase mixer speed to high and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Add peppermint extract and a few drops of green food coloring. Gently fold to create an even green color throughout the meringue.
- Transfer meringue to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe tree-shaped triangles onto prepared baking sheets, starting with a wide base and tapering to a point.
- Place baking sheets in the preheated oven. Dry meringues for approximately 1 hour, or until they are crisp and can be easily lifted from the parchment paper.
- Remove from oven and allow meringues to cool completely at room temperature, about 30 minutes.
- Melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled meringue trees and immediately sprinkle with festive holiday sprinkles.
- Let chocolate set completely before serving or storing in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Ensure absolute cleanliness: Any trace of grease or egg yolk can prevent your egg whites from whipping correctly. Use metal or glass bowls and thoroughly clean all utensils.
- Room temperature matters: Let egg whites sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before beating for maximum volume.
- Soft peaks vs. stiff peaks: Stop beating when peaks stand straight up without falling - this is crucial for structural integrity of your trees.
- Low and slow baking: The low oven temperature (200°F) ensures crisp meringues without browning, maintaining that pristine green color.
- Piping technique: Use steady, consistent pressure when piping to create uniform tree shapes. Practice makes perfect!
- Humidity is the enemy: Store finished meringues in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming sticky.
- Get creative with decorations: Experiment with different sprinkle colors or use edible glitter for extra holiday sparkle.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
