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Every holiday season, as the scents of pine and cinnamon fill the air, I find myself reminiscing about the festive treats that brought smiles to my family’s faces. One particular gem in our seasonal lineup has become a tradition that I look forward to each year: Meringue Wreath Cookies. These delicate, cloud-like cookies not only look stunning with their vibrant colors but also melt in your mouth, captivating the hearts of everyone at the table.

I can’t help but feel a rush of joy as I prepare this enchanting recipe, inspired by both classic flavors and playful creativity. Imagine the anticipation as you pipe swirls of airy meringue in festive reds and greens, transforming simple egg whites into dazzling wreath shapes. Whether you’re crafting them for a holiday gathering or just indulging in a sweet escape, these cookies are the perfect blend of charm and simplicity. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring a little slice of holiday magic into your kitchen!

Why are Meringue Wreath Cookies a must-try?

Delightfully light: With their airy texture, these cookies practically melt in your mouth, making them the ideal treat for any festive occasion.

Vibrant colors: The stunning red and green hues will brighten up your dessert table and bring a festive touch to your celebrations.

Simple to make: Just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, anyone can create these charming cookies without a fuss.

Perfect for sharing: These cookies are not only beautiful but also make excellent gifts for friends and family, spreading joy with every bite.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply indulging at home, expect compliments as your guests admire these enchanting creations.

If you’re excited to bake other delightful treats this season, don’t miss out on our classic Christmas cookie recipes!

Meringue Wreath Cookies Ingredients

Unlock the magic with these delightful ingredients!

For the Meringue

3 large egg whites – Fresh egg whites work best for achieving those lofty, stable peaks.
½ teaspoon lemon juice (or ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar) – This helps stabilize the egg whites and gives the meringue a slight tang.
1⅓ cups powdered sugar, sifted – Make sure to sift for a smooth texture; this is the base of your sweet, airy cookies.

For the Decoration

Red gel food coloring – A few drops will give a vibrant pop to your meringue without altering its consistency.
Green gel food coloring – Perfect for creating that festive wreath appeal with colors that shine brightly.
Christmas sprinkles (optional) – These add a fun touch to your meringue wreath cookies, making them even more festive!

Get ready to whip up a batch of these Meringue Wreath Cookies and impress everyone with your holiday baking skills!

How to Make Meringue Wreath Cookies

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature is essential for drying out the meringue without browning it. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Whisk Egg Whites: In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites using an electric mixer on medium speed until they become frothy. Add the lemon juice (or cream of tartar) to help stabilize the meringue.
Add Sugar Gradually: Slowly incorporate the powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while mixing. Once all the sugar is added, increase the mixer speed to high and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form—this should take about 5–7 minutes.
Color the Meringue: Divide the meringue mixture into three bowls. Tint one portion red, one green, and leave the third plain white for an eye-catching marbled effect.
Prepare Piping Bag: Fit a large piping bag with a star tip. Fill it with alternating scoops of the red, white, and green meringues. This will create a beautiful marbled look when piped.
Pipe Circles: Pipe small circles onto your prepared baking sheets, ensuring about 1 inch of space between each cookie. Make each wreath about 2 inches in diameter for the perfect size.
Sprinkle Garnish: If desired, sprinkle some festive Christmas sprinkles atop each meringue wreath. Then, gently tap off any excess sprinkles to keep them looking neat.
Bake Gently: Place the cookies in your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the cookies to cool inside with the door slightly ajar for an additional hour.
Cool and Store: After cooling, carefully remove the cookies from the parchment paper. Store them in airtight containers at room temperature to keep them fresh and crisp.

Optional: For an extra festive flair, dust with edible glitter before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Meringue Wreath Cookies?

Pairing your festive treats with delightful sides truly completes the holiday experience. Imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your home as loved ones gather around!

Warm Spiced Cider: The rich flavors of spiced cider perfectly complement the lightness of the meringue, creating a cozy atmosphere for sipping.
Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Fresh strawberries or oranges dipped in chocolate add a luscious, fruity touch that balances the sweetness of the cookies seamlessly.
Christmas Cake: A slice of rich fruitcake layered with cream is a traditional festive favorite that pairs beautifully with the airy texture of meringues.
Eggnog Ice Cream: This creamy, spiced treat makes for an indulgent dessert when served alongside your cookies, enhancing the holiday spirit.
Cheese Platter: A selection of tangy cheeses can provide a savory contrast, elevating the dessert experience while beautifully showcasing colors.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: This warm, minty beverage is the ultimate pairing that turns a sweet moment into a magical holiday memory.
Coffee or Tea: The earthy tones of a rich coffee or delicate tea ground the sweet flavors of your meringue, inviting everyone to linger a little longer.

These suggestions elevate your festive gatherings, ensuring every bite of Meringue Wreath Cookies is accompanied by joy!

Make Ahead Options

These Meringue Wreath Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the meringue mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its stability. When you’re ready to bake, allow the mixture to come to room temperature before tinting and piping your wreaths, ensuring they stay just as fluffy and delightful. If you want to go a step further, you can pipe the meringue shapes onto the baking sheets and refrigerate them overnight—just bake them straight from the fridge. This way, you’ll have gorgeous cookies ready to impress your guests with minimal fuss!

Expert Tips for Meringue Wreath Cookies

Use Clean Tools: Ensure all equipment, especially bowls and mixers, are squeaky clean. Any fat can deflate your meringue and prevent it from achieving those perfect peaks.
Room Temperature Egg Whites: For best results, use egg whites at room temperature—they whip better and help create a lighter texture for your Meringue Wreath Cookies.
Gradual Sugar Addition: Add powdered sugar slowly, one tablespoon at a time. This helps maintain the meringue’s volume and stability, ensuring your cookies hold their shape.
Oven Temperature: Don’t rush the baking process by increasing the oven temperature. Low and slow is key to achieving that crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy!
Cooling Time Matters: Allow the cookies to cool gently in the oven with the door ajar. This step helps prevent cracking and gives you that lovely, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Storage Hint: Keep the Meringue Wreath Cookies in airtight containers to preserve their light and crispy texture for longer. Avoid humid environments, as they can cause meringues to become sticky.

Meringue Wreath Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful cookies to fit your taste and dietary needs!

Chocolate Drizzle: After the cookies cool, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the tops for an added touch of richness. It brings a decadent contrast to the sweetness of the meringue.
Egg-Free: Substitute egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) in a 1:1 ratio for a vegan-friendly alternative that still whips beautifully!
Nutty Surprise: Fold in finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds into the meringue before piping them. This adds an enjoyable crunch and a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness.
Spiced Meringue: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the sugar while mixing for a warm, spiced twist that echoes holiday flavors in each delightful bite. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel festive!
Matcha Magic: Add a teaspoon of matcha powder to the green meringue for a vibrant color and a unique flavor that brings an earthy note. It’s a creative way to infuse some green tea goodness!
Citrus Twist: Replace lemon juice with orange or lime juice for a refreshing citrus zing that adds a bright, tangy flavor and a vibrant citrusy aroma to your cookies.
Creamy Texture: Mix in a spoonful of creamy peanut butter or almond butter to the meringue base before piping for a flavorful and slightly chewy texture. This adds a wonderful nutty essence to each wreath!
Spicy Kick: For those who love a hint of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the meringue to surprise your taste buds and give a new dimension to your festive sweets.

How to Store and Freeze Meringue Wreath Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Meringue Wreath Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their crispiness.

Fridge: It’s best to avoid the fridge, as moisture can cause the meringues to become soft and sticky.

Freezer: If you wish to freeze them, place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They can last up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This preserves their delightful texture and taste.

Meringue Wreath Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right egg whites for my Meringue Wreath Cookies?
Absolutely! Fresh large egg whites work best for achieving those lofty, stable peaks you want in your meringue. Look for eggs that have clean shells, and consider using room temperature egg whites—they whip up to a better volume, contributing to that light and airy texture.

How should I store my Meringue Wreath Cookies?
Store your Meringue Wreath Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them crispy and delightful. Avoid refrigerating them, as the added moisture can cause the meringues to become sticky and lose their pleasant crunch.

Can I freeze Meringue Wreath Cookies? If so, how?
Very! To freeze, arrange your cookies in a single layer within a freezer-safe container. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Seal the container well; they can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes—this will help retain their airy texture.

What should I do if my meringue doesn’t form stiff peaks?
If your meringue isn’t forming stiff peaks, the issue could be due to clean tools or the egg whites being too cold. Ensure all your equipment is free of grease or bits of fat, as these can weaken the meringue. Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature; this helps them whip up nicely. If all else fails, consider adding a pinch of salt—this can help stabilize the mixture as you beat it.

Are there any dietary concerns I should know about with Meringue Wreath Cookies?
Absolutely! This recipe focuses on using egg whites, making it a lighter dessert. However, since it contains egg proteins, it’s not suitable for those with egg allergies. If you’re thinking of treating your pets (especially dogs), it’s best to avoid giving them meringue cookies due to the sugar content. Always keep these sweet delights out of their reach!