Meringues

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 250°F / 120°C, and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. 2
   Using the KitchenAid(R) 5 Cup Food Chopper, insert the whisk accessory into the work bowl. Adjust lever to puree mode.
3. 3
   Add egg whites and salt to the work bowl and secure the lid. Process for 15 seconds to form a froth. Add cream of tartar, and process again for 15 seconds. Add half the powdered sugar and process another 15 seconds. Add remaining powdered sugar and vanilla, and continue processing for 5 full minutes or until stiff peaks form. Meringue will cling to a spoon when held upside down.
4. 4
   Add meringue to a piping bag or drop spoonfuls onto prepared cookie sheets. Bake 1 hour, turn off oven and allow to stand in the oven another 1 hour.
5. 5
   Chefs note - for colored cookies, add a drop of food coloring to mixture once it's formed the peaks. Cookies can be dipped in chocolate or icing and decorated with sanding sugar or sprinkles.