Crispy Almond Meringue Cookies

These delightful almond meringue cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a chewy interior, they provide a wonderful mix of textures in every bite. The use of crushed almonds adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs seamlessly with the sweet meringue. Ideal for afternoon tea or as an elegant dessert, these cookies are simple yet impressive. Making them involves basic ingredients found in most pantries and requires just a bit of patience during the baking process. Whether you're a novice baker or an expert, these cookies are approachable and rewarding. Enjoy them on their own or pair with fresh fruit and cream for an extra indulgence. They're sure to be a hit with anyone who loves nutty, sweet flavors. These cookies are not only delicious but also gluten-free, making them suitable for more dietary needs. Enjoy this classic European treat and elevate your cookie game effortlessly.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 4 egg whites
• 125 g sugar or powdered sugar
• 125 g almonds, crushed

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 2 hours including preparation and cooking.

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Ensure no yolk traces are left in the whites to achieve the best meringue consistency.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the egg whites with your choice of sugar. Though you can use regular sugar, powdered sugar tends to blend more smoothly, offering a finer texture to the cookies.
3. Whisk the mixture until it forms stiff peaks. This step is crucial for the meringue to hold its shape during baking.
4. Add the crushed almonds to the bowl. For extra flavor, toast the almonds lightly before crushing them.
5. Gently fold the almonds into the meringue mixture, ensuring that you do not deflate the whipped egg whites.
6. Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
7. Using a spoon or a pastry bag, place small mounds of the batter onto the baking sheet. If using a pastry bag, this will create more uniform shapes.
8. Preheat your oven to a low temperature of 110-120 degrees Celsius (230-250 degrees Fahrenheit).
9. Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the cookies bake slowly for 1 to 1.5 hours. This slow baking process will ensure the crispiness of the cookies.
10. Keep an eye on the cookies to prevent them from over-browning.
11. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
12. As they cool, the cookies will crisp up further.
13. Store in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture.
14. These cookies make approximately 20-30 pieces depending on the size of each mound.
15. For a festive twist, add a dash of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to the meringue before baking.
16. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies for an extra layer of indulgence.
17. If you find your environment is humid, use a dehumidifier to help keep the cookies crisp.
18. With patience and precise measurements, these cookies will turn out delightful every time.

Tips

• **Use room temperature eggs** for better volume in meringue.
• **Toast almonds slightly** for enhanced flavor depth.
• If you lack a pastry bag, a plastic storage bag with a corner cut off works as a substitute.

Nutritions

Per Cookie (approx.): **Calories**: 40, **Protein**: 1 g, **Fats**: 2 g, **Carbs**: 5 g.

Variations

• For a low-sugar option, use a sugar substitute suitable for baking.
• Incorporate other nuts like hazelnuts or pistachios for different flavors.
• Add a hint of citrus zest for a refreshing twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a balanced dessert experience.
• Serve with a hot cup of espresso or your favorite tea.
• Add a bowl of fresh berries on the side for a refreshing contrast.

Best Places

• Ladurée - Famous for their meringue-based delicacies. Location: 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Bouchon Bakery - Offers a wide range of French-inspired treats. Location: 6528 Washington St, Yountville, CA, USA.
• Pastéis de Belém - Known for their exquisite pastries and cookies. Location: Rua de Belém 84-92, Lisbon, Portugal.
• Café Central - A historic café with delightful desserts. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Demel - Renowned Austrian bakery offering meringue treats. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - Iconic for its elegant Italian pastries. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, Milan, Italy.
• Caffè Florian - One of the oldest cafes with tasty sweets. Location: Piazza San Marco, 57, Venice, Italy.
• Paul - Offers classic French bakery goods. Location: 134 High St, Oxford, UK.
• Maison Bertaux - London's oldest pastry shop with lovely cookies. Location: 28 Greek St, Soho, London, UK.
• Confiserie Sprüngli - Swiss delicacies made to perfection. Location: Bahnhofstrasse 21, Zurich, Switzerland.