Meringue cookies are delicious, light, and airy treats made from egg whites, sugar, and sometimes a touch of vanilla. Whether they’re made as part of a special occasion or just a sweet snack, sometimes you end up with leftovers. If you’re wondering what to do with your leftover meringue cookies, don’t worry! There are many ways to enjoy them again and prevent them from going to waste. In this article, we will explore some creative and tasty ideas to use up leftover meringue cookies.
1. Make a Meringue Crumble
One of the easiest and most versatile ways to use leftover meringue cookies is by turning them into a meringue crumble. This can be used as a topping for various desserts, or you can enjoy it on its own.
How to Make a Meringue Crumble
Step 1: Break up the meringue cookies into smaller pieces using your hands or a rolling pin.
Step 2: Place the broken pieces in a bowl and crush them further if necessary.
Step 3: Use the crumble as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or fruit salad. It can also be added to cake or pie for extra texture.
This method is not only simple but also adds a crunchy and sweet element to your desserts.
2. Add to Your Morning Yogurt Parfait
Yogurt parfaits are a popular breakfast or snack option, and leftover meringue cookies can add a delightful crunch. Meringues pair especially well with fresh fruits and creamy yogurt.
How to Make a Yogurt Parfait with Meringue
Step 1: Layer a glass or jar with Greek yogurt or any yogurt of your choice.
Step 2: Add some fresh fruits like berries, bananas, or kiwi.
Step 3: Crumble the meringue cookies and sprinkle them on top.
Step 4: Add another layer of yogurt and fruit, then top with more meringue crumbles.
Step 5: Finish with a drizzle of honey or syrup for extra sweetness.
This makes for a refreshing and balanced breakfast, full of texture and flavor.
3. Create a Meringue and Chocolate Parfait
Combining meringue cookies with chocolate is a match made in heaven. If you have leftover chocolate ganache or just love chocolate, this dessert will satisfy your cravings.
How to Make a Meringue and Chocolate Parfait
Step 1: Layer a small dessert glass with whipped cream or chocolate mousse.
Step 2: Break the meringue cookies into smaller pieces and add a layer on top.
Step 3: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or ganache.
Step 4: Repeat the layers until you fill the glass.
Step 5: Top with shaved chocolate or cocoa powder for an extra touch.
This dessert is indulgent, with the crispiness of the meringue perfectly balancing the creamy and rich chocolate.
4. Bake into a Pavlova
If you have leftover meringue cookies, why not use them to make a delicious pavlova? Pavlova is a classic dessert made with a meringue base, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits. You can easily turn your meringue cookies into the perfect topping for this dessert.
How to Make Pavlova with Leftover Meringue Cookies
Step 1: Make the base of the pavlova by placing the leftover meringue cookies in a food processor or crush them by hand to make small chunks.
Step 2: Form the meringue pieces into a circle or a layer on a baking sheet to create a pavlova base.
Step 3: Bake until slightly golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside.
Step 4: Once cool, top with whipped cream, fresh berries, kiwi, and any other fruit you prefer.
The sweetness of the meringue pairs beautifully with the tartness of the fruit and the richness of the cream.
5. Use as a Cake or Pie Filling
Meringue cookies can also be used as a filling in cakes and pies. Their airy texture can bring a light and fluffy contrast to heavier desserts.
How to Use Meringue in a Cake or Pie Filling
Step 1: Crush the meringue cookies into smaller pieces.
Step 2: Add the crushed meringue to a filling mixture, such as lemon curd or chocolate mousse.
Step 3: Fold the meringue into the filling gently.
Step 4: Use the mixture as a filling for pies, cakes, or pastries.
Meringue adds a light sweetness to the filling, making your dessert even more decadent.
6. Meringue Trifle
A trifle is a layered dessert typically made with cake, custard, and whipped cream. Leftover meringue cookies can be used to create a unique twist on this classic dessert.
How to Make a Meringue Trifle
Step 1: Begin with a layer of crushed meringue cookies in the bottom of a trifle dish or a large glass bowl.
Step 2: Add a layer of custard, whipped cream, or fruit.
Step 3: Continue layering the meringue, custard, and cream until the dish is filled.
Step 4: Finish with a generous topping of whipped cream and fresh fruit.
The meringue adds a crunchy texture to the soft and creamy layers, making the trifle a delightful treat.
7. Use in a Meringue Ice Cream Cake
For a fun and unique dessert, use meringue cookies in an ice cream cake. The crisp meringue pairs wonderfully with creamy, chilled ice cream.
How to Make Meringue Ice Cream Cake
Step 1: Line a cake pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Place a layer of meringue cookies at the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Add a layer of softened ice cream on top of the meringue layer.
Step 4: Add another layer of meringue cookies and ice cream.
Step 5: Freeze until the cake is firm.
Step 6: Once frozen, remove the cake from the pan and top with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
The meringue creates a delightful crunch, contrasting perfectly with the smooth, cold ice cream.
8. Make Meringue Ice Cream Sandwiches
Another simple idea is to turn leftover meringue cookies into ice cream sandwiches. This treat is easy to make and is perfect for a hot day.
How to Make Meringue Ice Cream Sandwiches
Step 1: Select your favorite flavor of ice cream.
Step 2: Place a scoop of ice cream between two meringue cookies.
Step 3: Press gently to form a sandwich.
Step 4: Freeze the sandwiches for 30 minutes to firm them up.
These ice cream sandwiches are refreshing and easy to make, and they combine the lightness of meringue with the creaminess of ice cream.
9. Turn Into Meringue Crust for Tarts
Meringue cookies can also be used as a crust for small tarts or pies. The light, crisp texture makes for an excellent base that complements various fillings.
How to Make a Meringue Crust for Tarts
Step 1: Crush your leftover meringue cookies into small pieces.
Step 2: Mix the crushed meringue with a little melted butter to bind it together.
Step 3: Press the mixture into a tart pan to form a crust.
Step 4: Fill the crust with your favorite tart filling (such as lemon curd, chocolate ganache, or fruit filling).
Step 5: Bake the tart according to the recipe instructions.
This crust adds sweetness and crunch, making the tart even more enjoyable.
10. Make Meringue Cookie Candy Bars
If you enjoy making homemade candy bars, consider using leftover meringue cookies as part of your creation. The meringue adds a delicate crunch to the candy.
How to Make Meringue Cookie Candy Bars
Step 1: Break the meringue cookies into smaller chunks.
Step 2: Melt your favorite chocolate (milk, dark, or white) and pour it over the meringue pieces.
Step 3: Add other ingredients such as nuts, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Step 4: Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and refrigerate until firm.
These candy bars are an indulgent treat, combining the crisp meringue with creamy chocolate and other sweet ingredients.
Conclusion
Leftover meringue cookies don’t have to go to waste. Whether you choose to crumble them and use them as a topping, add them to a parfait, or make a delicious dessert like pavlova or ice cream sandwiches, there are many ways to use them creatively. These ideas allow you to enjoy your meringue cookies in new and exciting ways, adding sweetness and texture to a variety of dishes. So, next time you have some leftover meringue, try one of these tasty ideas and turn your leftovers into a new delicious treat!
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