Star Mint Meringues

By Coppermouse

Ingredients

• 3 egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• Red paste food coloring

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven to 200 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper; set aside. In a large mixing bowl beat egg whites, cream of tartar, peppermint extract, and salt with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form (tips curl). Gradually add sugar, about 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed until stiff peaks form (tips stand straight).

Using a new small paintbrush, brush stripes of red food coloring on the inside of a decorating bag fitted with a 1/2-inch open-star tip. Carefully spoon egg white mixture into decorating bag. Pipe 2-inch stars 1 inch apart onto the prepared cookie sheet.

Bake about 1-1/2 hours or until meringues appear dry and are firm when lightly touched. Transfer cookies to a wire rack; cool.

To Store: Layer cookies between sheets of waxed paper in an airtight container; cover. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.