Lemon Meringue Cookies are delightful, light, and airy confections that combine the bright flavor of lemon with the sweet, crispy texture of meringue. These cookies are perfect for a refreshing treat, making them an excellent choice for spring and summer gatherings. With their beautiful presentation and zesty taste, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them!

Ingredients

• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (finely grated)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Timing

Preparing Lemon Meringue Cookies takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of baking time. Total time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Meringue Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until frothy.
2. Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form.
3. Slowly add the sugar, about 1 tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed until glossy and stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until just combined.

Step 3: Pipe the Cookies

1. Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip.
2. Pipe small dollops or swirls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 4: Bake the Meringue Cookies

1. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the meringues are dry to the touch and can easily lift off the parchment paper.
2. Turn off the oven and leave the cookies inside to cool completely, about 1 hour.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once cooled, remove the cookies from the parchment paper. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	30
Protein	0.5g
Fat	0g
Carbohydrates	7g
Fiber	0g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Use a sugar substitute suitable for baking to reduce calories.
• Reduce the amount of sugar slightly, but keep in mind that this may affect the texture.

Serving Suggestions

• A cup of herbal tea or iced tea for a refreshing snack.
• Fresh berries for a light dessert option.
• A lemon curd dip for added flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not using room temperature eggs for better volume and stability.
2. Overbeating the egg whites, which can cause dry and grainy meringue.
3. Opening the oven door during baking, which can cause the meringues to crack.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Lemon Meringue Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their crispness.

Conclusion

In just about 1 hour and 15 minutes, you can create delicious Lemon Meringue Cookies that are light, zesty, and perfect for any occasion. These delightful treats are sure to brighten up your dessert table and impress your guests!

FAQs

Can I make these cookies in advance?

Yes! Meringue cookies can be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

What can I do if I have leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze meringue cookies?

Yes! Meringue cookies can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent moisture.