Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: Approximately 24 small meringues
Ingredients:
- 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Intensity: Low
- Time: 1 minute
Preheat your air fryer to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature is crucial for slow and even drying of the meringues.
2. Prepare the Egg Whites:
- Intensity: Medium
- Time: 5 minutes
Ensure that the bowl and beaters or whisk attachments are clean and free of any grease. Even a small amount of fat can affect the ability of the egg whites to whip properly. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. This may take a few minutes, especially if you’re using a hand mixer.
3. Add Sugar Gradually:
- Intensity: Medium
- Time: 7 minutes
Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. This process should take about 5-7 minutes until the meringue is glossy and holds stiff peaks.
4. Add Vanilla and Food Coloring:
- Intensity: Low
- Time: 2 minutes
If desired, add vanilla extract for flavor and food coloring for a pop of color. Gently fold these into the meringue mixture until well combined.
5. Pipe the Meringues:
- Intensity: Medium
- Time: 5 minutes
Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip. Pipe small meringue kisses onto a parchment paper-lined tray.
6. Air Fry:
- Intensity: Low
- Time: 2 hours
Place the tray in the preheated air fryer. Air fry at 200°F (93°C) for 2 hours, or until the meringues are completely dry and can be easily lifted off the parchment paper. Check the meringues periodically to ensure they are not browning. If they start to brown, reduce the temperature.
7. Cool:
- Intensity: Low
- Time: 15 minutes
Once the meringues are dry and crisp, turn off the air fryer and let them cool completely inside the air fryer with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent them from becoming sticky due to humidity.
8. Store:
- Store the meringues in an airtight container at room temperature.
9. Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 24 servings):
- Calories: 20
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 0g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 5mg
Enjoy your homemade air fryer meringues!
Note: Nutrition information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
