Meringue Bone Cookies are fun and festive treats that are light, crunchy, and shaped like little bones! They’re made mainly with egg whites and sugar, making them sweet and airy.
These cookies are perfect for Halloween or any spooky gathering. I always enjoy piping them out and watching the kids giggle at their silly shapes. They’re a treat that disappears fast!🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Whites: The star of meringue! Fresh, room-temperature egg whites whip up best. If you’re vegan, aquafaba (the liquid from chickpeas) is a great substitute—1/4 cup equals one egg white.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is essential for sweetness and structure. If you want a healthier option, you could try using superfine sugar, which dissolves easily. Just beware that it might change the texture a bit.
Cream of Tartar: This ingredient helps stabilize the egg whites. If you don’t have it, a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar can work as a substitute to enhance stability.
Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor, but if you prefer something different, almond extract can give a lovely twist to the taste!
Food Coloring: Use gel food coloring for vibrant pastels. Liquid color may throw off the meringue’s stability, so stick with gels for better results.
How Do I Pipe Perfect Bone Shapes?
Piping meringue can be tricky, but a little practice goes a long way! Here are some steps to help you get those adorable bone shapes just right:
- Use a large round tip for easy piping, and make sure the piping bag is filled just halfway to avoid over-pressure.
- To create the bone shape, start with a straight line, then add two rounded ends by applying gentle pressure while pulling up as you lift the piping bag.
- Keep your piping steady and consistent; practice on parchment paper first if that helps! Remember, perfection isn’t necessary—fun shapes are what count.
Take your time while piping, and don’t worry if they’re not all identical. The charm lies in their playful look!
Meringue Bone Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, for stability)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Food coloring (optional, for pastel shades like pale lavender, peach, or green)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and about 1.5 to 2 hours to bake. Add another hour for cooling in the oven after baking. Total time: approximately 3-4 hours, most of which is just waiting for the meringues to dry out completely!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (95°C). This low temperature is crucial for drying out the meringue instead of browning it. While the oven heats up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, which will prevent the meringues from sticking.
2. Whip the Egg Whites:
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, whip the egg whites on medium speed until they’re foamy. This usually takes just a couple of minutes. If you’re using cream of tartar, this is the moment to add it in.
3. Add Sugar Gradually:
Once your egg whites are foamy, start adding the granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time. Keep mixing on high speed as you go. This process helps dissolve the sugar completely and creates that lovely glossy meringue.
4. Peak Perfection:
Continue whipping the egg whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks. The meringue should look smooth and hold firm when you lift the beaters out – this means it’s ready!
5. Add Flavoring and Color:
If you’d like a touch of vanilla flavor, gently fold in the vanilla extract now. Then, if color is desired, divide the meringue into bowls, add a few drops of food coloring, and gently fold them in until you achieve your desired pastel shade.
6. Prepare to Pipe:
Next, get your piping bag ready! Transfer the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. This will make it easy to create those adorable bone shapes.
7. Pipe the Bones:
Now for the fun part! Pipe bone shapes onto the prepared baking sheets. Start with a straight line about 3-4 inches long and then pipe out two rounded knobs at each end for the bone shape. Try to keep them consistent in size for a uniform look!
8. Bake the Meringues:
Pop the baking sheets in the oven and let them bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll know they’re done when they feel dry and crisp to the touch and can easily lift off the parchment paper.
9. Cool Down:
When they’re baked, turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly. This step helps them cool down slowly, preventing cracks due to a rapid temperature change. Let them cool completely inside the oven.
10. Store and Enjoy:
Once they’re cool, store your delightful meringue bone cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They make a perfect crunchy treat for Halloween or any festive gathering!
These playful, bone-shaped meringues are a sweet and airy snack that will surely impress your friends and family. Enjoy getting into the Halloween spirit with these whimsical delights!
Can I Use Egg Substitutes for This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re looking for a vegan option, try using aquafaba instead of egg whites. About 1/4 cup of aquafaba is equivalent to one egg white. Whip it just like you would egg whites, and you’ll achieve a similar texture.
How Do I Prevent Meringue from Cracking?
To help prevent cracking, make sure to cool the meringues inside the oven after baking. This gradual cooling process reduces the risk of sudden temperature changes that can cause them to crack. Also, avoid opening the oven door too frequently while they bake!
What’s the Best Way to Store Meringue Bone Cookies?
Store the cooled meringue cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crisp for several days if kept dry. Avoid refrigerating them, as moisture can make them sticky.
Can I Add Flavors to the Meringue?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different extracts like almond, lemon, or peppermint. Just make sure to add them gently when folding in after whipping the egg whites, starting with small amounts until you reach your desired flavor intensity.
