Are you looking to add a touch of elegance to your dessert repertoire? Look no further than the airy and delicate Baiser Meringen. This delightful French treat is a sweet, crisp meringue that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create these irresistible morsels that are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these delectable Baiser Meringen treats!
### Baiser Meringen
**Ingredients:**
– 4 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (approximately 95°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The low temperature will ensure that the meringues bake slowly, resulting in a crisp exterior and a soft, marshmallow-like interior.
2. **Prepare the Meringue:**
– In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Make sure there are no traces of egg yolk in the whites, as this can prevent them from whipping properly.
3. **Gradually Add Sugar:**
– With the mixer still running, gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Continue beating the mixture on high speed until stiff peaks form and the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is crucial for a stable meringue that holds its shape.
4. **Incorporate Flavor:**
– Gently fold in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The vanilla adds a subtle flavor to the meringue, while the salt helps balance the sweetness. Be careful not to overmix at this stage to maintain the meringue’s light and airy texture.
5. **Pipe or Spoon the Meringue:**
– Transfer the meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip, or simply spoon dollops of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. You can get creative with the shapes and sizes of the meringues to suit your preference.
6. **Bake to Perfection:**
– Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meringues for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent the meringues from collapsing.
7. **Cool and Enjoy:**
– Once the meringues are done baking, turn off the oven and let them cool inside with the door slightly ajar. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracks from forming on the meringues. Once completely cooled, store the Baiser Meringen in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Get ready to savor the light and airy goodness of these Baiser Meringen treats. Whether served on their own as a sweet indulgence or used to adorn a dessert, these morsels are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. So why wait? Whip up a batch of these French delights and elevate your baking game today!
