The Ultimate Lemon Merengue Cookies

The Ultimate Lemon Merengue Cookies

These are the most addicting merengues I have yet to make.  The lemon makes them have a special touch that gives you a feeling of having a pie without the guilt.  Crunchy on the outside and smooth and creamy on the inside.  A great holiday gift or pot luck item to bring along regardless of the season.  Even great for school bake sales as there are no nuts!

4 egg whites

1/8 tsp salt

1/4 tsp cream of tartar

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/3 cup super fine sugar

1 tsp lemon zest, or more to taste

Preheat oven to 275 degrees.

In a stand mixer with whisk attachment add the egg whites, salt, and cream of tartar.  Blend on high speed until soft peaks form.  Add in the vanilla then the sugar slowly while still beating until stiff peaks form.  Add in the lemon zest to combine.

Line a baking sheet with wax paper and place heaping spoonfuls of the egg mixture onto the prepared trays.  Bake in oven approximately 30-35 minutes.  Merengues should easily pull off the paper.  Cool completely on a wire rack.  Store at room temperature in an air tight container.