Ingredients
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Gel food coloring (pink, yellow, green for the sherbet effect)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
- In a large mixing bowl, add the egg whites and salt.
- Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat on medium speed until the egg whites become foamy.
- Add the cream of tartar and continue whipping.
Step 3: Slowly Add Sugar
- Gradually add 1 tablespoon of sugar at a time, whipping continuously.
- Continue beating until the meringue forms stiff, glossy peaks (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the vanilla extract and whip for another 30 seconds.
(To check if your meringue is ready, pull out the whisk—the peaks should hold their shape and be glossy.)
Step 4: Add the Rainbow Colors
- Divide the meringue into three small bowls.
- Add a few drops of gel food coloring (pink, yellow, green) to each bowl.
- Gently fold the color into each portion (don’t overmix, or the meringue may deflate).
Step 5: Create the Swirls
- Fit a large piping bag with a star tip.
- Using a small spoon, add stripes of each colored meringue inside the piping bag.
- Carefully pipe small swirls or kisses onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake Low & Slow
- Bake the meringues for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until they feel dry and firm to the touch.
- Turn off the oven and let them cool inside for another hour (this prevents cracking).
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
- Once completely cool, serve your Rainbow Sherbet Meringues as a light snack or dessert!
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Meringues
🔹 Use Room Temperature Eggs – This helps create the most stable peaks. 🔹 Don’t Add Sugar Too Quickly – Adding sugar too fast can prevent the meringue from getting fluffy. 🔹 Use Gel Food Coloring – Liquid food coloring can make the meringue too runny. 🔹 Bake at Low Heat – High heat can cause browning or cracks. 🔹 Avoid Humidity – Meringues absorb moisture, so make them on a dry day for the best texture.