Hazelnut Heath Meringues

meringue

By popular demand…meringue cookies.

Now, for a blogger who avoids eggs and sugar, this may seem like an odd choice. A good friend of DH’s is off in Iraq, and me being me, I’m “doing my part” by sending cookies. It’s amazing that so many wonderful men and women are overseas, missing friends and family and in incredibly stressful conditions and our everyday lives are so removed from all of that struggle. So regardless of my feelings on the war, I deeply appreciate the people who have given up so much to serve.

Okay, off the soapbox. Meringues seem to keep well for weeks, and there’s no chocolate or anything else to melt. Last time we sent pecan brittle with cacoa nibs and next time, I think I’ll do biscotti. However, he’s over there until at least November, so I need suggestions of foods that are sturdy enough to ship, won’t melt, stay good for at least 2 weeks and GF, so I can make them. Please leave comments!!!

I made a variety of batches, from coffee heath to hazelnut with cocoa nibs to some vanilla with various mixins. So think of this more as a blank canvas on which to play and add your own stamp. The only caution is that if you plan to pipe the meringues, you need to mash the heath or it gets stuck in the tips, and you get a gloppy mess (however, I will say they were still devoured)

3 egg whites, removed from the fridge 30 min-1 hr if possible
1/4 tsp cream of tartar
3/4 cup powdered sugar
pinch of salt
1 tsp hazelnut extract, vanilla extract or whatever works for you

1/3 cup heath bar chips, mashed, or nuts or or mini chips
or 2T cocoa nibs
1 Tablespoon espresso powder (optional)

Pre heat oven to 250 (check with an oven thermometer). Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment. DO NOT GREASE, AND DON’T USE A SILPAT. I guarantee it won’t turn out well (I made all the mistakes so no one else has to. you’re very welcome)

Whip egg whites until soft peaks, then add in the cream of tartar and gradually add in the powdered sugar. Whip until you have still peaks, then add in extracts and mixins. Working quickly, spoon out tablespoons of the batter on prepared sheets, or pipe with a pastry bag for a prettier appearance. Bake for about 2 hours or until dry and hard, rotating sheets halfway.

Allow to cool completely and seal tightly. They keep at least 2 weeks

About Cheryl Harris

Life played a funny trick on me. I've studied nutrition for years, and much to my surprise, found out that I could manage many of my health issues via diet. I've been GF for years, and I've got a bunch of allergies and sensitivities. But it definitely doesn't keep me from cooking, baking and enjoying my food. Thanks for stopping by.
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14 Responses to Hazelnut Heath Meringues

  1. VeggieGirl says:

    You have a good heart AND are a good baker! 😀

  2. Heather says:

    As a military brat and wife, I appreciate your support of the troops. And what better way than with cookies! I love the addition of hazelnut and Heath. I’ll have to try it next time.

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  4. Ricki says:

    You are so sweet to bake these for him! I think gingersnaps would keep well. Or you could always try ANZAC biscuits. 😉

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  9. sheila says:

    please make your recipes printer friendly…thanx

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  14. Cindy says:

    That is so wonderful. When my children were younger during the Iraq war we sent cookies to soldiers too. I know for a fact that they loved them. When I think about being homesick the first thing that comes to mind is chocolate chip cookies. What about chocolate chip cookie bars? You can cut them and individually wrap them. This recipe was in the list that you posted your recipe. http://freelifeglutenfree.blogspot.com/2013/07/chocolate-chip-cookie-bars.html

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