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Crispy Ghost Meringue Cookies: Easy Halloween Treat

Crispy Ghost Meringue Cookies - featured image

These crispy ghost meringue cookies are a light, airy, and visually striking Halloween treat. Made with simple ingredients like egg whites and sugar, they offer a satisfying snap and clean taste without the mess of traditional frosting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large egg whites, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (approx. 200g)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Mini chocolate chips (for eyes)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 225°F (107°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Place egg whites and salt in a clean, dry glass or metal bowl. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed until frothy (about 1 minute).
  3. Increase speed to high and beat until soft peaks form.
  4. With the mixer running on high, slowly pour in the granulated sugar in a thin stream. Continue beating until the mixture is glossy, thick, and holds stiff peaks (about 3-4 minutes). The mixture should feel smooth, not gritty.
  5. Turn off the mixer and gently fold in the vanilla extract with a spatula.
  6. Transfer mixture to a piping bag fitted with a round tip or a Ziploc bag with the corner cut off.
  7. Pipe tall, narrow mounds onto the baking sheets to resemble ghosts. Leave space between them.
  8. Press two mini chocolate chips into the upper third of each ghost to create eyes. If the meringue is too soft, chill the piped ghosts for 15 minutes before adding eyes.
  9. Bake for 90 minutes to 2 hours, until the cookies are completely dry to the touch and do not stick to the parchment.
  10. Turn off the oven and leave the cookies inside with the door slightly ajar to cool completely (about 30 minutes). This prevents cracking.
  11. Remove from oven and store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

Ensure the mixing bowl is completely clean and grease-free, as any fat will prevent the egg whites from whipping. Use room temperature egg whites for better volume. Do not use silicone mats; parchment paper is essential for easy removal. Store in an airtight container with a silica packet if humidity is high.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween, meringue, cookies, ghost, easy dessert, gluten-free, kid-friendly, party treat