Valentine French Kisses

Valentine French Kisses Recipe - A Sweet and Colorful Treat from France

Region / culture: France | Servings: 12

Introduction

Valentine French Kisses are a delightful and romantic treat perfect for celebrating love on Valentine's Day. These sweet and chewy coconut meringue cookies are sure to impress your loved ones and add a touch of elegance to any special occasion.

History

The origin of French Kisses is a bit mysterious, but they are believed to have originated in France as a traditional dessert for special occasions. Over time, this recipe has been adapted and personalized by cooks around the world to create unique variations of this classic treat.

Ingredients

3 egg whites, at room temperature
0.13 tsp salt
1 cup sugar
2 drops red food coloring
1 tsp almond extract
1.25 cups shredded coconut

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C).
Place the egg whites in a glass mixing bowl and add salt.
Beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
Slowly add 1 cup of sugar while continuously beating the mixture.
Mix in food coloring, almond extract, and coconut using a slow and deliberate mixing technique to prevent the mixture from deflating.
Drop teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto a greased and well-floured baking sheet.
Bake for approximately 30 minutes.
Turn off the oven and allow the kisses to sit in the oven for 1.5 hours.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the meringue mixture for added texture and flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled French Kisses for a decadent touch.
Use different food coloring to customize the color of the kisses for different occasions.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before starting to ensure they whip up properly.

- Be patient when adding the sugar to the egg whites, as adding it too quickly can cause the mixture to deflate.

- Use a slow and gentle mixing technique when incorporating the coconut to maintain the fluffy texture of the meringue.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Valentine French Kisses as a sweet and romantic dessert for Valentine's Day or any special occasion. Pair them with a glass of champagne or a cup of hot tea for a delightful treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Valentine French Kisses is to whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form and to fold in the coconut gently to maintain the airy texture of the meringue.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have almond extract on hand, you can substitute it with vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. You can also omit the food coloring if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

Valentine French Kisses can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the French Kisses on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh berries or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation. Serve them in elegant paper cups or on a tiered dessert stand for a sophisticated touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Valentine French Kisses pair well with a variety of beverages, including champagne, sparkling wine, coffee, or tea. They also complement other sweet treats like chocolate-covered strawberries or petit fours.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Valentine French Kisses in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (149°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Valentine French Kisses contains approximately 60 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Valentine French Kisses contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Valentine French Kisses contains approximately 3 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Valentine French Kisses contains approximately 1 gram of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Valentine French Kisses are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Valentine French Kisses contain eggs and coconut, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Valentine French Kisses are a low-calorie treat that is relatively low in carbohydrates and fats. However, they may not be suitable for individuals with egg or coconut allergies.

Summary

Valentine French Kisses are a delightful and romantic treat that is perfect for celebrating love on Valentine's Day or any special occasion. These sweet and chewy coconut meringue cookies are easy to make and sure to impress your loved ones with their elegant and delicious flavor. Enjoy these French Kisses with a glass of champagne or a cup of hot tea for a sweet and memorable dessert experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Valentine French Kisses. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Isabelle in her cozy kitchen. Isabelle was a master chef, known for her delicious and inventive creations. As we sipped on tea and chatted about life, she suddenly pulled out a faded old recipe card from her collection.

"My dear, you simply must try these Valentine French Kisses," Isabelle exclaimed with a twinkle in her eye. "They are the perfect blend of sweetness and romance, just like a kiss on Valentine's Day."

I eagerly leaned in closer as she began to explain the ingredients and steps involved in making these delectable treats. Isabelle had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The recipe was a family secret, and I felt honored that she was willing to share it with me.

As Isabelle guided me through the process of mixing the dough, shaping the kisses, and baking them to perfection, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and expertise in the kitchen. She moved with grace and precision, her hands deftly working the dough into delicate shapes that resembled small lips.

As the kisses baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma of vanilla and almond, Isabelle regaled me with stories of her grandmother and the cherished memories they had shared over the years. She spoke of lazy afternoons spent baking together, of secret ingredients whispered in hushed tones, and of the love and care that went into each and every recipe.

I was captivated by her words, transported back in time to a simpler era where the kitchen was the heart of the home and food was made with love and intention. Isabelle's passion for cooking was infectious, and I found myself eager to learn more about the art of creating beautiful and delicious dishes.

When the Valentine French Kisses emerged from the oven, golden brown and fragrant, I could hardly wait to taste them. Isabelle carefully dusted them with powdered sugar, giving them a soft and ethereal glow that made my mouth water with anticipation.

As we sat down to enjoy our freshly baked treats, I marveled at the delicate texture and subtle flavors of the kisses. They were light and airy, with a hint of sweetness that lingered on my lips long after the last crumb had disappeared.

"Ah, my dear, there is nothing quite like a homemade treat to warm the soul and lift the spirits," Isabelle said with a smile as she savored her own bite of the Valentine French Kisses. "It's a labor of love, to be sure, but oh so worth it in the end."

And so it was that I learned to make the recipe for Valentine French Kisses, a cherished gift from a dear friend and mentor. I have since shared the recipe with my own loved ones, passing down the tradition of love and connection that Isabelle instilled in me that fateful summer day.

As I sit here now, reminiscing on those precious moments in Isabelle's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the memories we created and the lessons we shared. Cooking is not just about food, but about connection and community, about love and laughter, about the joy of creating something beautiful and delicious to share with those we hold dear.

And so I will continue to make Valentine French Kisses, with each batch a reminder of the love and friendship that brought the recipe into my life. For in the kitchen, as in life, it is the simple things that bring us together and fill our hearts with warmth and joy.