Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits

Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits Recipe - USA

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

Introduction

History

The recipe for Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits has been passed down through generations in Oregon, where hazelnuts are a popular and abundant ingredient. This recipe combines traditional meringue techniques with the addition of chopped hazelnuts and chocolate for a unique twist on a classic treat.

Ingredients

3 egg whites
0.25 tsp salt
2 cups powdered sugar
0.5 cup finely chopped Oregon hazelnuts
0.5 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels
0.33 cup saltine cracker crumbs

How to prepare

In a bowl, beat the egg whites and salt until they become very stiff.
Slowly add the sugar while continuing to beat.
Gently fold in the Oregon hazelnuts, chocolate, and cracker crumbs.
Drop teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
Bake for 13 to 15 minutes at 350°F.

Variations

Substitute almonds or walnuts for the hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
Add dried fruit, such as cranberries or apricots, for a touch of sweetness.
Drizzle melted white chocolate over the meringue bits for an extra decadent treat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to beat the egg whites until they are very stiff to ensure a light and airy meringue.

- Gently fold in the hazelnuts, chocolate, and cracker crumbs to avoid deflating the meringue mixture.

- Drop teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto the cookie sheet to create uniform-sized meringue bits.

- Bake the meringue bits at a low temperature to prevent them from browning too quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits as a sweet treat with coffee or tea, or as a light dessert after a meal.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the egg whites until stiff is crucial for creating a light and airy meringue.

- Folding in the hazelnuts, chocolate, and cracker crumbs gently will help maintain the meringue's texture.

- Baking the meringue bits at a low temperature ensures they cook through without browning too quickly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute graham cracker crumbs for the cracker crumbs for a slightly sweeter taste.

- Use dark chocolate morsels instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the meringue bits on a decorative platter and garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of hot cocoa for a delicious pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits contains approximately 6 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and copper.

Alergens

Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits contain eggs, nuts, and dairy.

Summary

Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits are a delicious and indulgent treat that is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates. They are a good source of healthy fats and provide a small amount of protein.

Summary

Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits are a delightful and crunchy treat that combines the sweetness of meringue with the nutty flavor of Oregon hazelnuts. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert at your next gathering. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a delicious and impressive treat that is sure to impress your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a crisp fall day in Oregon, and I was visiting a quaint little bakery nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley. As soon as I walked in, the aroma of freshly baked goods filled my nostrils, and I knew I was in for a treat.

I scanned the display case, my eyes landing on a plate of delicate meringue bits studded with toasted hazelnuts. They were like little bites of heaven, with their crispy exterior and chewy center. I had never seen anything quite like them before, and I knew I had to learn how to make them.

I struck up a conversation with the bakery owner, a sweet elderly lady named Mrs. Jenkins. She had been baking for over 50 years and was more than happy to share her recipe with me. As we chatted, she told me that the secret to the perfect meringue bits was using fresh Oregon hazelnuts, which she sourced from a local farm just down the road.

Mrs. Jenkins invited me into her kitchen and showed me how to whip up the meringue, folding in the chopped hazelnuts at just the right moment. She then spooned the mixture onto a baking sheet, creating little mounds that would bake up into crispy, chewy perfection.

As the meringue bits baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with the warm, nutty scent of hazelnuts. Mrs. Jenkins regaled me with stories of her baking adventures, from learning her grandmother's recipes as a young girl to experimenting with new flavors and techniques over the years.

When the meringue bits were finally ready, Mrs. Jenkins pulled them out of the oven and let them cool on the counter. I eagerly popped one into my mouth, savoring the crunch of the toasted hazelnuts and the airy sweetness of the meringue. It was a taste sensation unlike anything I had ever experienced.

Mrs. Jenkins smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride. "Now you know the secret to my Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits," she said. "Remember, the key is to use the freshest ingredients and to bake with love in your heart."

I left Mrs. Jenkins' bakery that day with a full belly and a heart bursting with gratitude. I had not only learned a new recipe, but I had also gained a friend and mentor in the world of baking.

Over the years, I have made Mrs. Jenkins' Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits countless times, each batch bringing back memories of that fateful day in the cozy little bakery in Oregon. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of these delectable treats to the next generation.

As I whip up a batch of meringue bits in my own kitchen today, I can't help but smile at the thought of Mrs. Jenkins looking down on me from baking heaven. I know she would be proud to see that her recipe lives on, delighting taste buds and warming hearts with each crispy, chewy bite.

So here's to you, Mrs. Jenkins, and to the magic of Oregon Hazelnut Meringue Bits. May they continue to bring joy and sweetness to all who are lucky enough to taste them. And may they always remind us of the power of a shared recipe and a shared love of baking.