Chocolate Meringue Mushrooms

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Chocolate Meringue Mushrooms.

1. Step 1

   To start your delightful meringue mushrooms, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to a cozy 225°F (110°C).

2. Step 2

   Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup later.

3. Step 3

   In a large glass or metal bowl, grab your electric mixer and beat the egg whites until they become foamy and light.

4. Step 4

   Next, add in the vanilla extract, cream of tartar, and a pinch of salt, continuing to whip until soft peaks form—this is where the magic begins! Slowly sprinkle in the sugar while you keep whipping the mixture until it transforms into a glossy meringue that holds stiff peaks.

5. Step 5

   Now, fit a round tip into a pastry bag and fill it halfway with your fluffy meringue.

6. Step 6

   To create the charming mushroom caps, gently squeeze out round mounds of meringue onto one of the prepared cookie sheets, pulling the bag to the side to avoid any peaks.

7. Step 7

   Don’t hesitate to refill the bag as needed; we want plenty of caps! For the mushroom stems, press out small amounts of meringue onto the second cookie sheet, pulling the bag straight up to form a cute candy-kiss shape.

8. Step 8

   Feel free to vary the sizes for a more whimsical, natural look.

9. Step 9

   Once you have your meringue shapes ready, lightly dust the mushroom caps with cocoa powder using a small sifter or strainer for that earthy touch.

10. Step 10

    Now it’s time to bake! Place your cookie sheets in the preheated oven and let them bake for about an hour, or until the meringues are dry enough to lift off the sheets with ease.

11. Step 11

    Once baked, allow them to cool completely—this is the perfect time to enjoy the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen.

12. Step 12

    While the meringues cool, melt your chocolate coating in a metal bowl over simmering water or in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until it’s smooth and silky.

13. Step 13

    To assemble your adorable meringue mushrooms, take a paring knife and create a small hole in the bottom of each mushroom cap.

14. Step 14

    Spread a bit of melted chocolate over the bottom of the cap, then dip the tip of a stem into the chocolate and press it into the hole.

15. Step 15

    Once the chocolate sets, your cap and stem will be securely joined, creating a delightful little mushroom.

16. Step 16

    Repeat this process with the remaining meringues, and soon you’ll have a charming collection of meringue mushrooms.

17. Step 17

    Store them at room temperature in a dry place or in a tin, and get ready to impress your friends and family with these whimsical treats!.