Sugar-Free Meringue Cookies are a delightful treat that offers the light, airy texture of traditional meringue without the added sugar. Perfect for those looking for a low-sugar or diabetic-friendly dessert, these cookies are sweetened with sugar substitutes and can be flavored to your liking. They make for a great snack or a light dessert!

Ingredients

For the Meringue Cookies:

• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup sugar substitute (such as erythritol or stevia, adjust based on sweetness preference)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon almond extract or lemon zest for added flavor

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, use an electric mixer to 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 substitute, about 1 tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed. Beat until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold in the vanilla extract and any optional flavorings (like almond extract or lemon zest) until just combined. Be careful not to deflate the meringue.

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 of meringue 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. After baking, 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. Serve as a light snack or dessert.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Sugar-Free Meringue Cookies (per cookie, assuming 24 cookies):

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	15
Protein	0.5g
Fat	0g
Carbohydrates	4g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	0g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Experiment with different sugar substitutes to find one that suits your taste.
• Add natural flavorings like spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) for added depth without extra calories.

Serving Suggestions

• A cup of herbal tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
• A light whipped cream or yogurt for a more indulgent dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Using Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume and stability.
2. Overbeating the Egg Whites: Stop beating when stiff peaks form; overbeating can cause the meringue to become dry and grainy.
3. Opening the Oven Door: Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can cause the meringues to crack.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Sugar-Free 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 Sugar-Free Meringue Cookies that are light, airy, and perfect for anyone looking for a low-sugar treat. These cookies are a great way to enjoy a sweet snack without the guilt!

FAQs

Can I make these cookies in advance?

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

Can I use different flavorings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different extracts or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.

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.