Meringues in Tucci’s Style | Light, Crispy & Irresistible

Crisp on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth on the inside — these Italian meringues are an elegant, light treat perfect for coffee time, desserts, or as a sweet snack. Simple, delicate, and irresistible!

Watch the Recipe

About This Dish

Italian meringues are a staple in pastry shops and family kitchens, beloved for their delicate crunch and airy sweetness. This recipe uses just three ingredients to create a treat that’s elegant, versatile, and deeply tied to Italian traditions of coffee breaks and celebrations.

Ingredients (Makes 70–100 pieces)

Egg Whites (room temp): 3
White Sugar: 200 g (≈ 1 cup)
Lemon Juice: ½ lemon (≈ 1 tbsp)

How to Make It

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 90 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 40 mins

  • Step 1: In a clean, dry bowl, combine egg whites, sugar, and lemon juice. Beat with an electric mixer until very stiff, glossy peaks form.
  • Step 2: Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle. Pipe small 2 cm-wide meringues onto a parchment-lined baking tray.
  • Step 3: Bake in a preheated oven at 100°C (210°F) for 90 minutes. Do not open the oven door during baking.
  • Step 4: Once baked, turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside to avoid cracks.
  • Step 5: Store in an airtight container. Serve with coffee, whipped cream, or as part of a dessert platter.

Tucci’s Tips

Use room temperature egg whites for maximum volume.
Make sure the bowl and whisk are completely grease-free.
For extra flavor, add a drop of vanilla extract to the mix.

Variations

  • Chocolate Twist: Drizzle cooled meringues with melted dark chocolate.
  • Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pistachios before baking.
  • Festive Style: Add a hint of food coloring for holidays or events.

Did You Know?

Historical Fact: While meringues are popular across Europe, in Italy they became essential in festive desserts like “meringata,” a cake layered with cream and meringue.

Fun Fact: In Naples, small meringues often accompany espresso as a light, sweet treat.

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Storage & Thank You

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Can it be frozen? Yes — freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month.

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