Christmas Meringues

Directions

1. 1
   Heat oven to 275F.
2. 2
   Combine egg whites, almond extract and cream of tartar in bowl.
3. 3
   Beat at low speed, scraping bowl often, until foamy.
4. 4
   Beat at high speed, gradually adding 2 tablespoons sugar at a time and scraping bowl often, 2-3 minutes or until stiff peaks form and sugar is almost dissolved.
5. 5
   Stir in food color.
6. 6
   Place meringue in pastry bag fitted with large star tip (number 8).
7. 7
   Pipe onto parchment-lined cookie sheets forming 2-inch wreaths; decorate with candied cherries.
8. 8
   Bake 25 minutes.
9. 9
   Reduce oven to 250F.
10. 10
    Continue baking 23-27 minutes or until edges are set.
11. 11
    Cool on parchment paper.