Description
These Delightful Easy Jello Meringue Cookies combine the light, airy texture of traditional meringue with the fruity flavors of gelatin dessert for a unique and colorful treat. Perfect for parties or as a sweet snack, these cookies are crisp on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft inside, enhanced with optional edible glitter or chocolate drizzle for an extra touch of fun and elegance.
Ingredients
Scale
Meringue Base
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature for better whipping)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (slowly added to the egg whites)
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (helps stabilize the meringue)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for added flavor)
Flavor & Decoration
- 1 package flavored gelatin (Jello) (your favorite flavor)
- Edible glitter or chocolate drizzle (optional for decoration, to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the egg whites: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature, which helps them whip up more easily. Using a clean, dry bowl and a hand or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, begin beating the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Add the cream of tartar to help stabilize the foam as you continue.
- Add sugar gradually: Slowly add the granulated sugar, a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites on high speed. This slow incorporation helps create a glossy, stiff meringue. Continue beating until firm peaks form and the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Incorporate gelatin and flavoring: Gently fold in the flavored gelatin powder and the vanilla extract into the meringue, being careful not to deflate the mixture. This addition imparts the signature colorful and fruity flavor to your cookies.
- Shape the cookies: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or a piping bag, drop or pipe small mounds of the meringue mixture onto the sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake and dry: Bake the meringue cookies in the preheated oven for about 2 hours (120 minutes). This low and slow baking process dries out the cookies, making them crisp without browning. Once done, turn off the oven and let the cookies cool inside with the door slightly ajar for best texture.
- Add optional decoration: After the cookies have fully cooled, if desired, decorate them with edible glitter or drizzle melted chocolate over the tops for a festive look.
Notes
- Make sure all bowls and utensils are completely clean and free of grease to achieve perfect meringue.
- Do not open the oven door during baking to prevent cracking.
- The use of flavored gelatin is what sets these meringues apart; choose your favorite Jello flavor for variety.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness.
- If you do not have cream of tartar, you may substitute with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar.
