Schokobaiser Chocolate Meringues

In the charming villages of Austria, Christmas is a magical season filled with the warm scent of freshly baked treats. One particular delight that graces many Austrian households during the festive period is Schokobaiser – Chocolate Meringues. These delightful morsels offer a perfect blend of crispiness and chewy sweetness, making them a favorite accompaniment to hot cocoa or coffee during the holiday season.

Schokobaiser – Chocolate Meringues

Ingredients:
– 4 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cocoa powder
– 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
– Pinch of salt
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a clean, dry bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until they start to turn frothy. Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form.

3. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites on high speed. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.

4. Sift in the cocoa powder and add a pinch of salt. Gently fold the cocoa powder and salt into the meringue mixture until well combined. Be careful not to deflate the mixture.

5. Using a piping bag fitted with a large star tip or a spoon, pipe or spoon dollops of the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each mound.

6. In a small microwavable bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each interval until smooth.

7. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the piped meringues, creating a swirl pattern or topping each mound with a small dollop of chocolate.

8. Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are crisp on the outside. You can check for doneness by gently lifting one meringue – it should release easily from the parchment paper.

9. Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool inside with the door slightly ajar for about 30 minutes.

10. Once completely cooled, gently peel the meringues off the parchment paper and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

These Schokobaiser – Chocolate Meringues are a delightful treat that will surely add a touch of festive cheer to your holiday gatherings. Their rich chocolate flavor and delicate texture make them perfect for serving as an after-dinner treat or for packaging as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. Enjoy the tradition of Austrian Christmas baking with this simple yet elegant recipe that captures the essence of the season.