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Candy Cane Meringue Kisses

Candy cane meringue kisses are crisp, peppermint-scented cookies topped with finely crushed candy cane. They bake low and slow until dry, then cool in the turned-off oven for a delicate, light texture.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Cooling 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 36 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 19
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 egg whites large, at room temperature
  • 0.25 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 0.125 teaspoon fine salt
  • 0.75 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.25 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 candy cane medium, finely crushed (about 2 tablespoons)

Equipment

  • 1 13x18-inch baking sheet
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Piping bag fitted with a 1/2-inch star tip

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°F.
  2. Line a 13x18-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. With clean, grease-free beaters, beat the egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt on medium speed until foamy, about 1 minute.
  4. Increase to medium-high and beat to soft peaks, 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. Add the sugar gradually, about 1 tablespoon at a time, and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form and the sugar feels dissolved when rubbed between your fingers, 5 to 7 minutes.
  6. Beat in the peppermint extract.
  7. Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a 1/2-inch star tip and pipe 1-inch kisses onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  8. Sprinkle with the crushed candy cane.
  9. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the kisses are dry and lift easily from the parchment without browning.
  10. Turn off the oven and let the kisses cool inside with the door closed for at least 1 hour.

Notes

For the best texture, make sure the beaters are completely grease-free and the sugar feels dissolved before piping. Store airtight at room temperature for up to 2 weeks; refrigeration is not recommended, but if needed, refrigerate for up to 3 days. Freezer: yes, freeze airtight for up to 1 month. Aquafaba may work as an egg-free swap, though the texture can vary.