Very Berry Meringues

Very Berry Meringues Recipe with Strawberries, Blueberries, and Blackberries

| Servings: 6

Introduction

Very Berry Meringues are a delightful and light dessert that is perfect for any occasion. These sweet and airy meringues are topped with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries, and finished off with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

History

Meringues have been around for centuries and are believed to have originated in France. The combination of egg whites and sugar creates a light and airy texture that is perfect for desserts. Adding fresh berries to meringues gives them a burst of flavor and a pop of color that makes them even more appealing.

Ingredients

3 egg whites
1 cup fresh strawberries, washed
0.5 tsp cream of tartar
1 cup fresh blueberries, washed
sweetened whipped cream
1 cup fresh blackberries, washed
0.25 tsp salt
0.75 cup sifted granulated sugar
0.5 tsp vanilla extract

How to prepare

Beat the egg whites at high speed using an electric mixer until they become foamy.
Sprinkle cream of tartar, salt, and vanilla over the egg whites.
Continue beating until soft peaks form.
Add sugar, 1 tbsp at a time, while beating until stiff peaks form.
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and drop rounded 0.5 cupfuls of the meringue mixture onto the baking sheet.
Working quickly, smooth the center of each meringue by pushing the excess mixture up to the edges.
Bake at 225°F (107°C) for 1 hour.
Turn off the oven but leave the meringues inside to cool for 8 hours.
Combine the fruit and spoon 0.5 cup of fruit into each meringue shell.
Top with dollops of whipped cream.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Try using different types of berries, such as raspberries or mixed berries, for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the meringue mixture for a hint of citrus flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the meringues for an extra indulgent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating them. This will help them whip up faster and create a more stable meringue.

- Be sure to add the sugar slowly to the egg whites while beating to ensure a smooth and glossy meringue.

- When spooning the meringue onto the baking sheet, make sure to leave enough space between each meringue to allow for expansion while baking.

- Let the meringues cool in the oven after baking to prevent them from collapsing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Very Berry Meringues as a light and refreshing dessert after a meal. They pair well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect meringues is to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will ensure that the meringues are light and airy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar.

- You can use frozen berries instead of fresh if they are not in season.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the meringues ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Add the fruit and whipped cream just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the meringues on a platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Very Berry Meringues with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a special occasion.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Do not refrigerate as they may become soggy. Reheat in a low oven for a few minutes to crisp them up before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Very Berry Meringues contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Very Berry Meringues contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Very Berry Meringues contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Very Berry Meringues contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Very Berry Meringues are a good source of vitamin C from the fresh berries.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and dairy in the form of whipped cream, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Very Berry Meringues are a low-calorie dessert option that is relatively low in fat and protein. They are a good source of carbohydrates and vitamin C from the fresh berries.

Summary

Very Berry Meringues are a delicious and elegant dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With a light and airy texture and a burst of fresh berry flavor, these meringues are sure to impress your guests. Serve them as a sweet ending to a meal or enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a beautiful summer day, the sun was shining brightly, and the air was filled with the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers. I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, who was known for her incredible baking skills. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the delicious aroma of freshly baked goodies.

Mrs. Jenkins was busy whipping up a batch of Very Berry Meringues, and she graciously invited me to join her. I eagerly accepted, excited to learn a new recipe from such a talented baker. As she guided me through the steps, I watched in awe as she deftly whipped egg whites into stiff peaks, gently folded in the sugar, and carefully piped the meringue onto a baking sheet.

As the meringues baked in the oven, Mrs. Jenkins shared the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had learned it from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The recipe originated from a small village in France, where it was a beloved tradition to make these delicate treats using the freshest berries from the local orchards.

Mrs. Jenkins's eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she reminisced about the summers spent in her grandmother's kitchen, learning the art of baking from the master herself. She described how her grandmother would patiently teach her the secrets of making the perfect meringue – from choosing the right berries to knowing exactly when to pull them out of the oven.

As the meringues emerged from the oven, golden and glistening with sugar, Mrs. Jenkins offered me a taste. I eagerly bit into the crisp exterior, savoring the light and airy texture that melted in my mouth. The burst of sweet berries added a tart contrast that balanced the sweetness perfectly.

From that day on, I was hooked. I begged Mrs. Jenkins to share the recipe with me, and she graciously obliged. I carefully copied down each step, making sure to capture every detail and secret ingredient that made the meringues so special.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in putting my newfound knowledge to the test. I gathered the freshest berries I could find and set to work in my own kitchen, following the recipe with precision and care. As the meringues baked, the scent of vanilla and berries filled the air, transporting me back to that sunny summer day with Mrs. Jenkins.

When the meringues were finally done, I couldn't wait to taste them. I bit into one, closing my eyes as the flavors exploded on my tongue. The crisp exterior gave way to a soft and chewy center, while the berries added a burst of freshness that lingered on my palate.

I knew then that this recipe would become a treasured favorite in my own kitchen. Over the years, I have made these Very Berry Meringues countless times, sharing them with friends and family who always marvel at their delicate beauty and delicious taste. Each time I bake them, I am reminded of that special day with Mrs. Jenkins and the magical moment when I first discovered the recipe that would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

And so, as I pass this recipe down to future generations, I hope that they too will experience the joy and wonder of creating something delicious from simple ingredients and a touch of love. The memory of that day with Mrs. Jenkins will always hold a special place in my heart, inspiring me to continue exploring the world of baking and sharing the joy of good food with those I love.