Description
These Orange Meringue Cookies are crisp on the outside, soft in the center, and bursting with zesty citrus flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, they transform into light, cloud-like treats that melt in your mouth with every bite. The addition of fresh orange zest gives these cookies a refreshing twist that’s perfect for spring, holidays, or any time you’re craving a sweet-but-light indulgence.
Ingredients
3 large egg whites
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon orange zest
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
optional: 1 drop orange gel food coloring
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 225°F (110°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy.
3. Add cream of tartar and salt, then continue beating until soft peaks form.
4. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating on medium-high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.
5. Gently fold in orange zest and vanilla extract. Add gel food coloring if using.
6. Transfer meringue to a piping bag and pipe 1.5-inch mounds onto prepared sheets.
7. Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven and let cookies sit inside for another hour to dry.
8. Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
Always use a clean, grease-free bowl to ensure the egg whites whip properly.
Don’t skip resting in the oven; it prevents cracking and gives a crisp finish.
Use fresh orange zest for the best flavor—avoid bottled or dried zest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 cookies
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: orange meringue cookies, gluten free cookies, citrus cookies, low fat cookies