Pastel Kisses

Step 2: Beat the Egg Whites

In a large, clean mixing bowl, begin beating your egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed. Add a pinch of salt to help stabilize the egg whites. Continue beating until soft peaks form, which should take about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually

Once you have soft peaks, begin adding the granulated sugar, a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed. This step is crucial because adding the sugar gradually helps the meringue become smooth and glossy. Keep beating until stiff peaks form, meaning the egg whites should hold their shape and stand tall when the beaters are lifted.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Optional Cream of Tartar

Once the sugar is fully incorporated, add the vanilla extract for flavor. If you’re using cream of tartar (optional but helps create a firmer texture), add it now and give the mixture a final beat to combine everything.

Step 5: Color the Meringue

Now comes the fun part—adding color! Divide the meringue mixture into separate bowls, depending on how many colors you want to use. Add a few drops of pastel food coloring to each bowl and gently fold the color into the meringue, taking care not to deflate the mixture. Use soft pastel colors like pink, blue, lavender, or mint for the classic pastel look, but feel free to experiment with different shades to match your theme.

Step 6: Pipe the Meringues

Using a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip (or even just a Ziploc bag with the tip cut off), carefully pipe small mounds of meringue onto the prepared baking sheet. You can make them as big or small as you like, but smaller meringues work best for these “kisses.” Leave some space between each meringue, as they will expand slightly during baking.

Step 7: Bake Low and Slow

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meringues for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Meringues should be dry to the touch and crisp around the edges. The color may slightly deepen, but they should retain their pastel hues.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once the meringues are done, turn off the oven and let them cool completely inside with the door slightly ajar. This will help prevent them from cracking due to a sudden temperature change. Once cool, gently peel the meringues off the parchment paper and enjoy the crispy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Tips for Perfect Pastel Kisses

• Make sure your bowl and beaters are clean and free from any oil or grease. Any residue will prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly.
• Room temperature egg whites work best because they whip up more easily, so let the eggs sit out for a bit before you begin.
• Don’t skip the gradual sugar addition. This step is crucial for creating the glossy, smooth texture of the meringue.
• Avoid opening the oven door while baking. Meringues are sensitive to sudden changes in temperature, so it’s best to leave the oven door closed while they’re baking.
• Store them in an airtight container. To keep your meringue cookies fresh and crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay good for up to a week.

Why You’ll Love Pastel Kisses

Pastel Kisses are not only delicious but visually stunning, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Their delicate, airy texture and light sweetness make them the perfect contrast to denser, richer desserts. Plus, they’re gluten-free, which makes them a great option for guests with dietary restrictions.

These delightful meringues are also versatile—you can adjust the flavoring, add sprinkles, or even sandwich them together with a bit of whipped cream or chocolate ganache for a special twist.

Whether you’re hosting a baby shower, throwing a spring party, or just want a fun and colorful snack to brighten up your day, Pastel Kisses are sure to be the star of the show.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines beauty and deliciousness, Pastel Kisses are the answer. With their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and soft pastel colors, they’re perfect for any celebration or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Easy to make, customizable, and irresistibly tasty, these meringue cookies will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Give them a try, and watch your guests fall in love with these sweet, colorful kisses!