Light, airy, and irresistibly sweet, meringue is one of those magical desserts that feels elegant yet surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re topping a pie, creating crisp cookies, or swirling clouds of sweetness onto a pavlova, this delicious meringue recipe you’ll love is a must-have in your kitchen. With just a few basic ingredients and the right technique, you can achieve perfect meringue every time.
This recipe is ideal for home bakers in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, using easy-to-find ingredients and clear steps.
What Is Meringue?
Meringue is made by whipping egg whites with sugar until they become glossy, stiff peaks. Depending on how it’s prepared, meringue can be:
Crisp on the outside and soft inside
Light and marshmallow-like
Fully baked and crunchy
This versatility is what makes meringue so popular.
Ingredients for a Perfect Meringue
To make this delicious meringue recipe you’ll love, you’ll need:
4 large egg whites (room temperature)
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
½ teaspoon cream of tartar (or 1 teaspoon lemon juice)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Meringue Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment
Make sure your bowl and whisk are completely clean and dry. Any grease can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
Beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy
Add cream of tartar or lemon juice
Increase speed and beat until soft peaks form
Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually
Add sugar one tablespoon at a time
Continue beating until the mixture becomes glossy
Beat until stiff peaks form (the peaks stand straight up)
Step 4: Add Flavor
Gently mix in vanilla extract if using.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Spoon or pipe meringue onto a lined baking sheet
Bake at 225°F / 110°C for 1–1½ hours
Turn off the oven and let meringue cool inside
This slow baking ensures a crisp, dry texture.
Practical Tips for the Best Meringue
Use room-temperature egg whites for better volume
Add sugar slowly to avoid grainy texture
Avoid humid days—meringue prefers dry air
Don’t overbeat, or the mixture may collapse
Popular Ways to Use Meringue
Meringue cookies
Lemon meringue pie topping
Pavlova base
Eton mess
This delicious meringue recipe you’ll love works beautifully for all of them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using cold egg whites
Adding sugar too quickly
Baking at high temperature
Opening the oven door too early
Avoid these, and your meringue will turn out perfect every time.
Conclusion
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, meringue becomes one of the most rewarding desserts to make. Light, crisp, and beautifully sweet, this delicious meringue recipe you’ll love is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Once you master this classic recipe, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy it—on its own or as part of your favorite desserts. ☁️🍰