Tree Meringue Cookies

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These Tree Meringue Cookies look like snowy Christmas trees straight from a winter wonderland! With their elegant piped layers and glossy peaks, they bring a touch of festive magic to any holiday table. Not only are they stunning to look at, but their crisp exteriors and melt-in-your-mouth centers make them an absolute delight to eat. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or preparing edible gifts, these cookies are guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

The best part? They require just a few basic ingredients and no flour, making them naturally gluten-free. With the right technique and a steady piping hand, you’ll create picture-perfect trees that taste as heavenly as they look. Light, airy, and delicately sweet—they’re a Christmas treat you won’t want to miss.

What Kind of Meringue Should I Use?

For these cookies, a Swiss meringue or French meringue works beautifully. French meringue (egg whites whipped with sugar until stiff peaks form) is easier and requires no stovetop, making it a great choice for beginners. Just make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely grease-free for the fluffiest results.

Ingredients for the Tree Meringue Cookies

Egg Whites
The foundation of any meringue. Room temperature egg whites whip up with more volume and stability.

Granulated Sugar
Sweetens the meringue and gives it structure. Slowly adding the sugar is key for dissolving it completely.

Cream of Tartar
This acid helps stabilize the egg whites, allowing them to hold their shape when piped.

Vanilla Extract
Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to balance the sweetness.

Optional Gel Food Coloring
If you want to make green trees, a drop or two of gel food coloring gives a festive touch without thinning the meringue.

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How To Make the Tree Meringue Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Tools

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Make sure your mixing bowl is clean and dry.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat egg whites on medium until foamy. Add cream of tartar, then increase speed to high and gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 3: Achieve Stiff Peaks

Continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. This can take about 5-7 minutes. Add vanilla extract and coloring if using, and beat briefly to combine.

Step 4: Pipe the Trees

Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe stacked dollops onto your parchment to form tree shapes, starting large and tapering as you go up.

Step 5: Bake Low and Slow

Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours until the meringues are dry and lift easily. Turn off the oven and let them cool inside with the door ajar for 1 hour.

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How to Serve and Store These Holiday Beauties

These Tree Meringue Cookies make enchanting additions to cookie platters, gift boxes, and centerpieces. Serve them as a light dessert or with a warm drink like hot cocoa or peppermint tea. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Avoid humidity to keep them crisp!

What to Serve With Tree Meringue Cookies?

Hot Cocoa with Whipped Cream

The creamy richness complements the airy meringue texture.

Peppermint Mocha

A festive and bold pairing for a holiday dessert tray.

Mulled Wine

The spices in the wine balance the sweetness of the cookies.

Gingerbread Loaf

The spicy, moist loaf is a delicious contrast to the crisp cookies.

Mini Cheesecakes

Creamy bites paired with light meringue trees make an elegant dessert duo.

Eggnog Lattes

A classic holiday drink that enhances the cookies’ vanilla notes.

Chocolate Truffles

Dense, fudgy textures and light meringues go hand in hand.

Cranberry Orange Muffins

The tartness of cranberries cuts through the sweetness beautifully.

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Want More Holiday Cookie Ideas?

If you’re loving these Tree Meringue Cookies, check out more festive favorites:

• Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Santa Cookies for a fun, easy twist on a classic.
• Snowball Cookies with buttery, nutty flavor and a powdered sugar finish.
• Peanut Butter Candy Corn Cookies if you’re into unexpected seasonal combos.
• Double Chocolate Chip Cookies to satisfy your deepest chocolate cravings.
• Twix Cookie Cups for a caramel-filled treat you can bite into.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday dessert board so you can return to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how your cookie trees turned out. Did you decorate them with sprinkles or leave them snowy white? Try flavoring with peppermint or almond extract for your own spin!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and festive treats on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next baking inspiration!

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