Name: Meringue Ghosts Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 36
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 large egg whites; ¼ tsp cream of tartar; 1 cup superfine sugar; ½ tsp pure white vanilla extract; Miniature chocolate chips

These delightful meringue ghosts are perfect for adding a spooky touch to your Halloween festivities. Light, airy, and crisp, they make a fun and delicious treat that will impress both kids and adults alike.

Photos of Meringue Ghosts Recipe

One ingredient you might not have on hand is superfine sugar. It's finer than regular granulated sugar and dissolves more easily into the meringue. If you can't find it, you can pulse regular sugar in a food processor until finely ground. Also, make sure you have cream of tartar to stabilize the egg whites for perfect, stiff peaks.

Ingredients for Meringue Ghosts

Egg whites: These form the base of the meringue and provide structure.

Cream of tartar: This helps to stabilize the egg whites and ensures they hold stiff peaks.

Superfine sugar: Dissolves more easily into the meringue for a smooth texture.

Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of flavor to the meringue.

Miniature chocolate chips: Used to create the eyes and mouth of the meringue ghosts.

One reader, Humfrid Garza says:

These meringue ghosts are adorable and delicious! The recipe was easy to follow, and they turned out perfectly crisp and sweet. The chocolate chip eyes and mouth add a fun touch. Perfect for Halloween treats!

Humfrid Garza

Key Techniques for Perfect Meringue Ghosts

How to beat egg whites to stiff peaks: Use a mixer with a whisk attachment to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This means the peaks should stand up straight when you lift the whisk out of the mixture.

How to use a pastry bag: Fit the pastry bag with a ½ inch plain tip, fill it with the meringue mixture, and hold it perpendicular to the baking sheet while piping.

How to pipe meringue: Apply even pressure to the pastry bag to create 2-inch high mounds of meringue on the baking sheet.

How to bake meringue: Bake the meringues at a low temperature until they are dry and crisp to the touch, then leave them in the oven with the door slightly open to finish drying.

How To Make Meringue Ghosts

These meringue ghosts are cute little treats perfect for Halloween made of sugar and egg whites with mini chocolate chips for the eyes to complete the look.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total: 2 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

4large egg whites,room temperature
¼tspcream of tartar
1cupsuperfine sugar,or put sugar in food processor for 30 seconds until fine
½tsppure white vanilla extract
miniature chocolate chips,for the eyes

Instructions

Preheat oven to 200 degrees F. Place rack in the center of the oven.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Have a pastry bag fitted with a ½ inch plain tip.
In your mixing bowl, using the whisk attachment, beat the egg whites on low-medium speed until foamy.
Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until you get very stiff peaks.
Beat in vanilla extract.
Add the sugar, a little at a time, and continue to beat until the meringue holds very stiff peaks.
Beat in the vanilla extract.
Before placing the meringue ghosts on the cookie sheet, place a little of the meringue on the underside of each corner of the parchment paper to prevent the paper from sliding.
Transfer the meringue to the pastry bag.
Holding the bag perpendicular to the baking sheet, pipe with even pressure, 2-inch high mounds of meringue.
Carefully press two miniature chocolate chips into each meringue ghost for the eyes, and the third chip for a mouth.
Bake the meringues for approximately 1¼ to 1½ hours or until they are dry and crisp to the touch and easily separate from the parchment paper.
Turn off the oven, slightly open the door, and leave the meringues in the oven to finish drying several hours, or even overnight.

Nutrition

Calories: 22.77kcal
Fat: 0.01g
Saturated Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.00g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.00g
Carbohydrates: 5.38g
Fiber: 0.00g
Sugar: 5.36g
Protein: 0.40g
Sodium: 6.16mg
Calcium: 0.32mg
Potassium: 9.61mg
Iron: 0.01mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Mastering Meringue Ghosts

Preheat oven to 200 degrees f. Place rack in the center of the oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Have a pastry bag fitted with a ½ inch plain tip. In your mixing bowl, using the whisk attachment, beat the egg whites on low-medium speed until foamy. Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until you get very stiff peaks. Beat in vanilla extract. Add the sugar, a little at a time, and continue to beat until the meringue holds very stiff peaks. Beat in the vanilla extract. Before placing the meringue ghosts on the cookie sheet, place a little of the meringue on the underside of each corner of the parchment paper to prevent the paper from sliding. Transfer the meringue to the pastry bag. Holding the bag perpendicular to the baking sheet, pipe with even pressure, 2-inch high mounds of meringue. Carefully press two miniature chocolate chips into each meringue ghost for the eyes, and the third chip for a mouth. Bake the meringues for approximately 1¼ to 1½ hours or until they are dry and crisp to the touch and easily separate from the parchment paper. Turn off the oven, slightly open the door, and leave the meringues in the oven to finish drying several hours, or even overnight.

To ensure your meringue reaches the perfect consistency, make sure your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of any grease or residue. Even a small amount of fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Meringue Ghosts Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Separate egg whites and measure out sugar and cream of tartar before starting.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can beat egg whites faster and more efficiently than a hand mixer.

Preheat oven early: Preheat your oven while you prepare the meringue to save time.

Line baking sheet ahead: Prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper before you start mixing.

Pipe efficiently: Practice piping on a separate sheet to get the hang of it, ensuring quick and uniform meringue ghosts.

Substitute Ingredients For Meringue Ghosts Recipe

egg whites - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from a can of chickpeas, whips up similarly to egg whites and is a great vegan alternative.
cream of tartar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can stabilize the egg whites similarly to cream of tartar, though you may need a bit more.
superfine sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be processed in a blender or food processor to achieve a finer texture similar to superfine sugar.
pure white vanilla extract - Substitute with clear almond extract: Clear almond extract maintains the white color of the meringue while adding a different but complementary flavor.
miniature chocolate chips - Substitute with black sesame seeds: Black sesame seeds can be used for the eyes of the ghosts, providing a similar visual effect without altering the flavor significantly.

Creative Ways to Present Meringue Ghosts

Create a spooky scene: Arrange the meringue ghosts on a dark slate platter to contrast their white color. Scatter some crushed chocolate cookies around to mimic dirt, enhancing the eerie atmosphere.
Add a touch of color: Use a small brush to lightly dust the meringue ghosts with edible silver or pearl dust. This will give them a subtle, ethereal glow, making them look more ghostly and refined.
Incorporate height and dimension: Vary the heights of the meringue ghosts by piping some taller and some shorter. This creates visual interest and makes the presentation more dynamic.
Use complementary garnishes: Place a few fresh mint leaves or edible flowers around the meringue ghosts to add a pop of color and a fresh element to the plate.
Add a sweet drizzle: Lightly drizzle dark chocolate sauce or raspberry coulis around the meringue ghosts. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal with contrasting colors.
Highlight the eyes and mouth: Use a small dot of edible gold leaf on the miniature chocolate chips to make the eyes and mouth of the meringue ghosts stand out more prominently.
Serve with a side: Pair the meringue ghosts with a small bowl of vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor and texture contrast.
Use elegant plating: Place the meringue ghosts on a fine china plate with a delicate, intricate design. This elevates the overall presentation and aligns with the high standards of a Michelin-starred establishment.

Essential Tools for Making Meringue Ghosts

Oven: Used to bake the meringue ghosts at a low temperature to ensure they dry out properly without browning.
Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for the meringue ghosts to bake on.
Parchment paper: Prevents the meringue ghosts from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup easier.
Pastry bag: Used to pipe the meringue into ghost shapes with precision.
Plain tip: A ½ inch plain tip attached to the pastry bag to create smooth, even mounds of meringue.
Mixing bowl: Holds the egg whites and other ingredients while they are being mixed.
Whisk attachment: Attaches to the mixer to beat the egg whites to the desired consistency.
Mixer: An electric mixer is used to beat the egg whites and other ingredients to stiff peaks.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure small quantities of ingredients like cream of tartar and vanilla extract.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the superfine sugar accurately.
Spatula: Helps to transfer the meringue into the pastry bag and to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl.
Miniature chocolate chips: Used to create the eyes and mouths of the meringue ghosts.

Storing and Freezing Meringue Ghosts: A Guide

Meringues are best stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They will keep for several days.
To freeze meringues, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen meringues to an airtight container, separating each layer with wax or parchment paper. Freeze for up to 1 month.
To serve, remove the container from the freezer and let the meringues thaw for about 2 hours before serving. Once thawed, meringues should be served as soon as possible as they will start to soften and lose their crispness.
If you live in a humid climate, it's best to store the meringues in an airtight container and place the container in the refrigerator to prevent them from becoming sticky or soft.
When storing meringues, make sure they are completely cooled and dry before placing them in the container. Any moisture can cause the meringues to soften and lose their texture.
Avoid storing meringues with other baked goods or cookies that have a strong odor, as the meringues can absorb those flavors and odors.

Interesting Trivia About Meringue Ghosts

A fun fact about this meringue ghosts recipe is that the addition of cream of tartar helps stabilize the egg whites and allows them to hold their shape better when baked, resulting in perfectly crisp and spooky ghosts.

Is Making Meringue Ghosts at Home Cost-Effective?

This meringue ghosts recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients—egg whites, cream of tartar, superfine sugar, and miniature chocolate chips—are relatively inexpensive. Given that these items are often pantry staples, the overall cost remains low. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $5-$7 USD. The recipe yields a delightful dessert that is both fun and festive, making it a great value for the price. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Meringue Ghosts Healthy or Unhealthy?

The meringue ghosts recipe is a sweet treat that may not be the healthiest choice for everyday consumption. While the recipe primarily consists of egg whites and sugar, which are not inherently unhealthy, the high sugar content and lack of nutritional value make it more of an occasional indulgence than a regular snack.

Egg whites are a good source of protein and are low in calories, but the addition of a cup of sugar significantly increases the calorie count and adds empty calories to the recipe. The miniature chocolate chips also contribute to the overall sugar and calorie content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the recipe. Start by cutting the sugar by a quarter and adjust to taste.
Use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit instead of refined sugar to lower the calorie count and avoid blood sugar spikes.
Incorporate a bit of protein powder into the meringue mixture to increase the protein content and make the ghosts more satiating.
Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate to reduce sugar and add a bit of antioxidants.
Pair the meringue ghosts with fresh fruit to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the snack.

While these modifications can make the recipe slightly healthier, it's important to remember that meringue ghosts should still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on the Meringue Ghosts Recipe

This meringue ghosts recipe is a delightful and whimsical treat, perfect for Halloween festivities. The use of cream of tartar ensures the meringues achieve the desired stiffness, while superfine sugar guarantees a smooth texture. The miniature chocolate chips add a charming touch, bringing the ghosts to life. The detailed instructions, including the tip to secure the parchment paper, demonstrate a thoughtful approach to achieving perfect results. Overall, this recipe combines simplicity with creativity, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.

Enhance Your Meringue Ghosts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Pumpkin Spice Latte: Pair your meringue ghosts with a warm and cozy Pumpkin Spice Latte. The rich, spiced flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon will complement the sweet, airy texture of the meringue perfectly, creating a delightful autumnal treat.

Caramel Apple Slices: Enhance your dessert experience with Caramel Apple Slices. The crisp, tart apple slices drizzled with gooey caramel sauce provide a wonderful contrast to the light and crunchy meringue ghosts, making each bite a burst of flavor and texture.

Spiced Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a cup of Spiced Hot Chocolate alongside your meringue ghosts. The deep, rich chocolate flavor with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg will add a luxurious touch to your dessert, making it a perfect treat for a chilly evening.

Cranberry Orange Compote: Serve your meringue ghosts with a tangy and sweet Cranberry Orange Compote. The vibrant flavors of cranberries and orange zest will cut through the sweetness of the meringue, creating a balanced and refreshing dessert experience.

Maple Pecan Ice Cream: Complement your meringue ghosts with a scoop of Maple Pecan Ice Cream. The creamy, nutty ice cream with hints of maple syrup will add a rich and indulgent element to your dessert, making it an irresistible combination.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Meringue Ghosts

Spooky Spider Cookies: These dessert treats are perfect for Halloween! Create a batch of chocolate cookies and decorate them with candy eyes and licorice legs to make them look like creepy crawly spiders.

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes: Embrace the fall season with these delightful dessert cupcakes. Infused with pumpkin puree and spices, they are topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.

Witch Hat Cupcakes: Transform your regular cupcakes into magical dessert treats by adding a chocolate cone on top to resemble a witch's hat. Decorate with colorful sprinkles and icing for a whimsical touch.

Candy Corn Fudge: This dessert is a sweet and festive treat that combines the flavors of white chocolate and candy corn. Layer the fudge in a pan to create a tri-color effect that mimics the classic Halloween candy.

Monster Rice Krispie Treats: Give your dessert a monstrous makeover by shaping Rice Krispie treats into fun monster shapes. Use colorful icing and candy eyes to bring these delicious creatures to life.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Meringue Ghosts Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delightful Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked to perfection, offering a crispy top and a creamy, flavorful center. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and an extra burst of flavor. These bite-sized delights are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. A splash of balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish. This appetizer is not only visually appealing but also bursts with fresh, summery flavors that will delight your guests.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with aromatic herbs. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Grill to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers offer a colorful and nutritious main course. Hollow out vibrant bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and spices. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Top with melted cheese and fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Why trust this Meringue Ghosts Recipe:

This meringue ghosts recipe is a delightful treat that's perfect for Halloween. With simple ingredients like egg whites, cream of tartar, and superfine sugar, it's easy to make and sure to impress. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even beginners can achieve perfectly crisp and spooky meringue ghosts. Trust in this recipe for a fun and festive addition to your holiday celebrations.

Share your thoughts on the Meringue Ghosts Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how your spooky treats turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of superfine sugar?

It's best to use superfine sugar because it dissolves more easily into the egg whites, giving you a smoother meringue. If you don't have superfine sugar, you can make your own by processing regular granulated sugar in a food processor for a few seconds.

How do I know when the meringue is ready to be piped?

You'll know the meringue is ready when it holds very stiff peaks. This means when you lift the whisk out of the meringue, the peaks should stand up straight without drooping.

Can I make these meringue ghosts ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp.

What if I don't have a pastry bag or a plain tip?

No worries! You can use a plastic zip-top bag with a small corner snipped off as a makeshift pastry bag. It might not be as precise, but it will get the job done.

Why do I need to leave the meringues in the oven after turning it off?

Leaving the meringues in the oven with the door slightly open helps them dry out completely, ensuring they stay crisp and don't become chewy. This slow cooling process also helps prevent cracks.