Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies

Hazelnut Meringue Cookies Recipe with Crunchy Texture

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the light and airy texture of meringue with the crunch of roasted hazelnuts and corn flakes. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you are looking for a sweet snack or a tasty dessert.

History

The origins of Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies are not well-documented, but meringue cookies have been enjoyed for centuries in various forms. The addition of hazelnuts and corn flakes adds a unique twist to this classic recipe, creating a delicious and satisfying treat.

Ingredients

3 egg whites
dash of salt
1.67 cups firmly packed, sifted light brown sugar
0.5 tsp vanilla
1 cup roasted and chopped Oregon hazelnuts (about 4 oz or 113 g)
2 cups corn flakes

How to prepare

Beat egg whites and salt together until soft peaks form.
Gradually add brown sugar, about 3 tbsp at a time, beating well after each addition.
Fold in vanilla, hazelnuts, and corn flakes.
Drop by heaping teaspoons onto greased baking sheets.
Bake in a 325°F (163°C) oven for 20 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Variations

Substitute almonds or walnuts for the hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm and spicy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to beat the egg whites until soft peaks form to ensure a light and airy texture.

- Gradually adding the brown sugar and folding in the vanilla, hazelnuts, and corn flakes will help maintain the cookies' structure.

- Drop the cookie dough by heaping teaspoons onto greased baking sheets to create uniform cookies.

- Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 20 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the egg whites until soft peaks form is essential for creating a light and airy texture.

- Folding in the hazelnuts and corn flakes gently will help maintain the cookies' crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar for a slightly different flavor.

- Swap out the corn flakes for crushed graham crackers for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies on a decorative platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for a few minutes to restore their crunch.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies contains approximately 6 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and copper from the hazelnuts.

Alergens

Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies contain eggs and hazelnuts, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies are a delicious treat that is relatively low in carbohydrates and fats, making them a great option for those looking for a lighter dessert option.

Summary

Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the light and airy texture of meringue with the crunch of roasted hazelnuts and corn flakes. These cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delicious and satisfying treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. Margaret was always experimenting with new recipes and that day she was making a batch of Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies.

As I watched her mix the ingredients together, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and precision. Margaret had a knack for baking that I had always admired. She explained each step to me in detail, from beating the egg whites to folding in the chopped hazelnuts.

As the cookies baked in the oven, the sweet aroma of toasted hazelnuts filled the air. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When Margaret pulled the cookies out of the oven, they were a beautiful golden brown with a perfect crunch.

I took a bite and was instantly hooked. The meringue was light and airy, with just the right amount of sweetness. The hazelnuts added a delicious nutty flavor that complemented the meringue perfectly. I knew I had to learn how to make these cookies myself.

Over the next few weeks, I visited Margaret often, eager to learn her secrets of baking. She graciously shared her recipe with me, along with tips and tricks she had picked up over the years. I practiced making the cookies over and over again, until I had perfected the recipe.

As I shared the cookies with my family and friends, they were met with rave reviews. Everyone loved the unique combination of crunchy hazelnuts and delicate meringue. It quickly became one of my signature recipes, a dish that I was proud to serve to guests.

Years passed and I continued to make the Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies for special occasions and holidays. Each time I made them, I thought of Margaret and the day she had introduced me to this wonderful recipe. She had sparked a passion for baking in me that I never knew existed.

As I grew older, I passed the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren. They too fell in love with the cookies and soon they were baking them for their friends and loved ones. The recipe had become a cherished family tradition, a link to the past and a reminder of the joy that baking can bring.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scent of toasted hazelnuts, I can't help but smile. The Crunchy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies have become more than just a recipe to me. They are a connection to the past, a reminder of the love and friendship that have enriched my life.

And so, as I take a bite of a freshly baked cookie, I am filled with gratitude for Margaret and the day she shared her recipe with me. It is a gift that I will treasure always, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.