Peppermint Meringue Snowballs

Makes 3 Dozen
Ingredients
- 4 egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract, optional *
- 1/4 cup finely crushed candy canes or peppermint candy
Directions
- Line two large baking sheets with aluminum foil and set aside.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until frothy. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until whites stand in stiff, glossy peaks. This will take about 10 minutes. Beat in the peppermint extract as desired.
- Preheat the oven to 200°F. Drop meringue by rounded tablespoon onto the baking sheets, leaving a 1-inch space in between. Sprinkle tops with crushed candy. Bake
1 1/2 hours. Turn oven off and leave meringues in the oven for 30 minutes. - Let meringues cool completely before removing from foil. Store in an airtight container.
* Do not use peppermint extract containing peppermint oil (the meringues will deflate). For best results, use imitation (gasp!) peppermint extract.


