Tree Meringue Cookies

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

These Tree Meringue Cookies are as magical to look at as they are delightful to eat. Light, airy, and crisp, they bring a festive charm to any dessert table with their sweet swirls and holiday-inspired design. Whether you make them for a holiday party, to gift in cookie boxes, or simply to brighten your week, these cookies offer a beautiful blend of simplicity and show-stopping appeal.

The best part? They melt in your mouth with a gentle sweetness and a touch of vanilla. You don’t need special skills to pipe these little trees either — just a bit of practice and you’re on your way to baking edible ornaments that are as tasty as they are adorable.

Why You’ll Love These Tree Meringue Cookies

These cookies are naturally gluten-free, made with just a handful of pantry staples, and can be tinted in any color you love. They’re crisp on the outside with a slightly chewy center, making them perfect for holiday gifting or adding color to your dessert trays. Plus, they’re fat-free and low-calorie, which means indulging doesn’t have to mean overdoing it.

What Food Coloring Works Best for Meringue Cookies?

Gel food coloring is ideal for meringue cookies. It gives vibrant color without altering the texture of your batter. Liquid food coloring can water down the meringue, risking deflation. Stick to gels or powdered coloring for best results, especially when creating sharp shapes like trees.

Ingredients for the Tree Meringue Cookies

To make the perfect meringue trees, you’ll only need a few essential ingredients. Each one plays an important role in building that signature structure and light texture.

• Egg whites: The backbone of meringue. They whip into glossy peaks and give the cookie its airy, crisp bite.
• Granulated sugar: Stabilizes the egg whites and gives the meringue its sweet crunch.
• Cream of tartar: Helps stabilize and stiffen the peaks for a consistent texture.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Green gel food coloring: Turns the meringue into festive tree-shaped cookies.
• Sprinkles or edible glitter: Optional but fun for decorating the trees.

How To Make the Tree Meringue Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 200°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Fit a piping bag with a star tip and set aside.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until frothy. Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.

Step 3: Add the Sugar Gradually

With the mixer on high, gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Continue beating until glossy stiff peaks form. This can take 5 to 7 minutes. Add vanilla and a few drops of green food coloring, then beat just to combine.

Step 4: Pipe the Trees

Transfer the meringue to your piping bag and pipe tall tree shapes onto the prepared baking sheet. You can stack layers to create the shape of a fir tree. Top with sprinkles or edible glitter if using.

Step 5: Bake Low and Slow

Bake the meringues for about 90 minutes, then turn off the oven and let them sit inside for another hour to dry out completely. Don’t open the oven door during this process — the gentle heat helps avoid cracks.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Once cooled, carefully remove them from the parchment and store in an airtight container.

How to Serve and Store Tree Meringue Cookies

These cookies are perfect for gifting in clear treat bags, storing in tins, or showcasing on a festive dessert table. They make a lovely centerpiece at cookie exchanges or holiday brunches. This recipe yields about 30 cookies, depending on the size of your piped trees, so there’s plenty to share.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Avoid humid areas, as moisture can soften the crisp meringue.

What to Serve With Tree Meringue Cookies?

Hot Chocolate

The light texture of the cookies pairs beautifully with a rich, creamy hot chocolate.

Peppermint Mocha

For a festive coffeehouse vibe, serve these cookies with a homemade peppermint mocha.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Crumble a meringue over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a crunchy-sweet topping.

Gingerbread Latte

The spicy notes from a gingerbread latte balance the subtle vanilla of the meringue.

Eggnog

Classic holiday eggnog makes a perfect partner for these light, crisp cookies.

Cranberry Compote

A spoonful of tart cranberry sauce alongside the sweet meringue brings a pop of color and flavor.

Sparkling Apple Cider

If you want a bubbly, non-alcoholic option, this one complements the cookies wonderfully.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re into creative cookies with a festive spin, you’ll love exploring these next:

• Brownie Mix Cookies for that rich, fudgy finish.
• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies when you need no-bake ease and nostalgic crunch.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls to take fruity dessert to the next level.
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread for the ultimate gooey indulgence.
• Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls for when you crave warmth in every bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

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

Let me know how your Tree Meringue Cookies turn out! Did you go for classic green or try fun pastel swirls? Any favorite toppings you used? I’m always excited to see your creations.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and treats on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new seasonal favorites.

Conclusion

These Tree Meringue Cookies are delicate, festive, and perfect for the holidays. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a cookie swap, or looking for a creative edible gift, these light and airy cookies offer a whimsical and elegant way to spread holiday cheer.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?