Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies Recipe

Introduction

The holiday season is the time for joy, celebration, and indulging in delightful treats. This year, add a touch of whimsy and elegance to your festive table with Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies. Inspired by the timeless beauty of Christmas trees, these cookies are not only visually stunning but also a delicious treat that melts in your mouth. With the vibrant green hues of Suncore Foods® Midori Jade Matcha and Emerald Pandan Leaf Powders, these meringue cookies are perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a sweet indulgence by the fire. Let’s dive into this festive recipe and transform your holiday gatherings into a memorable celebration!

Ingredients

To create these enchanting Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• ½ cup aquafaba (chickpeas water)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp Suncore Foods® Emerald Pandan Leaf Powder
• 2 tbsp Suncore Foods® Midori Jade Matcha Powder

Instructions

Creating these charming meringue cookies is a straightforward process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve perfection:

1. Prepare the Aquafaba:
   • Start by draining a can of chickpeas, reserving the liquid known as aquafaba.
   • Measure ½ cup of aquafaba and pour it into a mixing bowl.
   • Using an electric mixer, beat the aquafaba on high speed until stiff peaks form. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
2. Incorporate the Sugar:
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar to the whipped aquafaba, one tablespoon at a time.
   • Continue beating the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved, and the meringue is glossy and firm.
3. Add the Powders:
   • Gently fold in the Suncore Foods® Midori Jade Matcha Powder and Emerald Pandan Leaf Powder.
   • Ensure the powders are evenly distributed, resulting in a vibrant green meringue.
4. Pipe the Meringue Trees:
   • Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Transfer the meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped nozzle.
   • Pipe the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small Christmas tree shapes.
5. Bake the Meringue Cookies:
   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 2 hours.
   • Once baked, turn off the oven but leave the meringue cookies inside to cool completely, ensuring they dry out thoroughly.
6. Decorate (Optional):
   • Once cooled, you can decorate the trees with edible glitter or small sugar decorations to enhance their festive appearance.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a closer look at the nutritional information for these delightful meringue cookies:

• Calories: Approximately 15 calories per cookie
• Total Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 5mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 3g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 0g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Serve

Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies are not only a delightful treat to enjoy but also a beautiful addition to your holiday festivities. Their vibrant green color and whimsical shape make them a perfect centerpiece for various serving styles. Here are some creative and detailed ways to present these enchanting cookies, ensuring they complement your holiday theme while also delighting your guests.

1. Festive Platter

Creating a visually stunning festive platter is a simple yet impactful way to showcase your Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies. Start with a decorative platter that reflects the holiday spirit—think rustic wooden boards, elegant porcelain, or glittering glass.

• Layering and Arrangement: Arrange the cookies in a cascading pattern, with larger cookies in the back and smaller ones in the front to create depth. You can also alternate the cookies with complementary treats such as chocolate-dipped pretzels or mini gingerbread men to add variety.
• Garnishing: Enhance the presentation by incorporating natural elements. Add sprigs of fresh pine, holly, or even small pinecones around the cookies. A sprinkle of powdered sugar can mimic freshly fallen snow, adding to the winter wonderland effect. Consider including a small bowl of peppermint or chocolate drizzle for dipping, inviting guests to personalize their treats.
• Lighting: If possible, place the platter under soft, warm lighting or fairy lights to create an inviting ambiance that draws guests in.

2. Gift Boxes

Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies make for heartfelt, homemade gifts that are sure to be appreciated. Packaging them beautifully can elevate the experience for the recipient.

• Choosing the Right Container: Select festive boxes or tins that resonate with the holiday theme. Options vary from classic red and green to more elegant gold and silver designs. Ensure that the containers are food-safe and can secure the cookies during transport.
• Presentation: Line the bottom of the box with festive tissue paper or shredded paper. Carefully place the meringue cookies upright to showcase their shape. Consider using dividers if you are including multiple flavors or types of cookies to keep them from breaking.
• Finishing Touches: Tie the box with a luxurious ribbon, and attach a personalized gift tag with a sweet message. You might also include a recipe card so that the recipient can recreate the delightful cookies at home.

3. Dessert Buffet

Incorporating Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies into a holiday dessert buffet can create an enticing spread that celebrates the season’s flavors.

• Themed Display: Design your dessert table with a cohesive theme. Use festive tablecloths, decorative cake stands, and themed signage that highlights each treat. For a winter theme, consider using white and silver decorations, while a more traditional theme could feature reds and greens.
• Pairing with Other Treats: Position the meringue cookies alongside other seasonal favorites like spiced gingerbread cookies, rich fruitcake, and creamy peppermint bark. Consider including a variety of textures and flavors—crunchy, chewy, and creamy—to cater to different preferences.
• Interactive Elements: To make the buffet more engaging, consider having a “decorate your own cookie” station with various toppings like edible glitter, colored sprinkles, or drizzles of chocolate. This not only adds an element of fun but also allows guests to personalize their experiences.
• Beverage Pairings: Complement the dessert buffet with a selection of drinks, such as hot chocolate, spiced cider, or a festive punch. Offering a warm beverage can enhance the overall experience and provide a cozy atmosphere.

By utilizing these serving ideas, you can elevate your Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies from simple treats to standout features of your holiday celebrations. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a large festive party, these presentation techniques will ensure your cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

Additional Tips

Creating the perfect Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies requires not just a good recipe but also attention to detail and technique. Here are some essential tips to ensure your meringue cookies turn out beautifully every time:

Room Temperature Aquafaba

One of the key ingredients in vegan meringue is aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas. For optimal results, it’s crucial to use aquafaba that is at room temperature. Cold aquafaba can inhibit the whipping process, preventing it from achieving the necessary volume and stability. Place the aquafaba in a bowl and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before you begin whipping. This small step can significantly enhance the texture and lightness of your meringue, allowing it to form stiff peaks more easily.

Consistent Piping

Uniformity in the size and shape of your meringue cookies not only enhances their visual appeal but also ensures even baking. Before you start piping the meringue onto parchment paper, take the time to practice your piping technique. You can use a piping bag filled with meringue and pipe onto a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to get a feel for the pressure and motion required. Consider using a tree-shaped piping tip for consistency, or draw outlines of tree shapes on the parchment paper to guide your piping. This practice will help you achieve evenly shaped cookies, making your Christmas tree display more festive and professional-looking.

Humidity Awareness

Meringue is notoriously sensitive to moisture, which can lead to sticky or soggy results. Humidity can prevent the meringue from drying out properly, leading to a less-than-desirable texture. Therefore, it’s best to plan your baking day for a dry weather condition. If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier in your kitchen or bake on a day when the humidity levels are lower. Additionally, you can check the weather forecast and choose a day with low humidity for your baking endeavor. If you must bake on a humid day, try to minimize the exposure of your meringue to the air while you work, and consider using a fan to help with the drying process once your cookies are piped.

Additional Considerations

• Equipment Cleanliness: Ensure that your mixing bowl and utensils are completely clean and free from any grease or oil. Even a small amount can compromise the meringue’s ability to whip up properly. It’s advisable to use glass or metal bowls rather than plastic, as plastic can sometimes retain oils.
• Sugar Gradually: When adding sugar to your whipped aquafaba, do so gradually. This gradual incorporation allows for better dissolution and helps create a smooth, glossy meringue. Aim to add the sugar one tablespoon at a time, allowing it to fully dissolve before adding more.
• Baking Temperature and Time: Meringue cookies should be baked at a low temperature (around 200°F or 93°C) for a prolonged period. This slow baking allows the meringue to dry out completely without browning. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent them from overbaking.
• Storage Tips: After your cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. If you live in a humid area, consider adding a desiccant packet to the container to absorb any moisture.

By incorporating these additional tips into your baking process, you will not only enhance the quality of your Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies but also enjoy a more rewarding and successful baking experience. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use other flavors instead of matcha and pandan? Absolutely! One of the wonderful aspects of baking is the ability to experiment and personalize recipes to suit your taste preferences. While matcha and pandan create a unique flavor profile that is both earthy and aromatic, you can certainly substitute them with other flavors to create your own version of meringue cookies. Consider using vanilla extract, which can add a warm and sweet undertone, perfect for those who prefer a more classic cookie flavor. Almond extract is another excellent option, imparting a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the lightness of meringue. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try cocoa powder to introduce a rich chocolatey taste, or citrus zest such as lemon or orange, which can add a refreshing brightness to your treats. For those who enjoy spices, cinnamon or pumpkin spice can bring a cozy warmth, especially during the fall season. Remember to adjust the quantities according to your taste, starting with a small amount and gradually increasing until you achieve the desired flavor intensity. The possibilities are virtually endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

How long do these cookies keep? When stored properly, these delightful meringue cookies can last for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy them over an extended period. To maximize their shelf life and maintain their crisp texture, it is essential to store them in an airtight container. This prevents moisture from seeping in, which can cause the cookies to become chewy or soggy over time. For optimal freshness, consider storing the cookies in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. If you live in a particularly humid climate, you might want to include a food-safe desiccant packet in the container to absorb any excess moisture. Alternatively, if you find yourself with a large batch of cookies that you may not consume within two weeks, you can freeze them. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour. This way, you can savor the delightful taste of these cookies whenever you like!

Is there a vegan alternative to aquafaba? Aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas or the cooking water of legumes, has gained popularity as a versatile vegan substitute for egg whites in various recipes, including meringue cookies. Its ability to whip up into soft and stiff peaks makes it an ideal alternative for those adhering to a plant-based diet. Fortunately, there are also additional vegan substitutes you can consider if aquafaba is not available or if you are looking for something different. One potential option is flaxseed meal mixed with water. To create a flax egg, combine one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with two and a half tablespoons of water, and let it sit for about five to ten minutes until it thickens. However, keep in mind that flaxseed may impart a slightly nutty flavor and will not whip up in the same way as aquafaba. Another alternative could be chia seeds, which work similarly to flaxseeds. Combine one tablespoon of chia seeds with three tablespoons of water and allow the mixture to gel. While these alternatives can serve as binders in recipes, they may not provide the same lightness and airy texture that aquafaba offers when whipped. For a closer match to aquafaba in terms of texture and functionality, using a specialized egg replacer powder available in stores can be a suitable option, though it may vary in effectiveness. Regardless of the substitute you choose, it’s essential to remember that while these alternatives can work in various recipes, they may yield slightly different textures or flavors. If you aim to create the same airy meringue structure, aquafaba remains the most reliable vegan option available.

Conclusion

Embrace the spirit of the season with these delightful Matcha Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies. Their light, crispy texture, and enchanting appearance make them a perfect addition to any holiday celebration. With the unique flavors of matcha and pandan, these cookies offer a modern twist to traditional meringues. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening by the fireplace, these treats are sure to bring joy and festivity to your holiday season. So gather your ingredients, follow our easy instructions, and let the baking begin!

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