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Crispy Ghost Meringue Cookies: 4 Easy Halloween Treats

crispy ghost meringue cookies - featured image

A forgiving and elegant Halloween treat made from a simple meringue base that bakes into a glassy, shattering crisp. Decorated with chocolate chip eyes, these ghost-shaped cookies are light, airy, and perfect for spooky season parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup (150g) fine granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 10–12 mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (for decoration)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 225°F (107°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Separate egg whites into a clean, dry mixing bowl, ensuring no yolk is present.
  3. Beat egg whites on medium-high speed until frothy, then add cream of tartar. Continue beating until soft peaks form (2-3 minutes).
  4. With mixer running on medium-high, slowly add sugar one tablespoon at a time. Beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  5. Stop mixer and gently fold in vanilla extract with a spatula.
  6. Transfer meringue to a piping bag fitted with a round or star tip. Pipe small oval shapes (approx. 1.5 inches tall) onto the parchment paper, leaving space between them.
  7. Bake for 15 minutes at 225°F (107°C).
  8. Reduce oven temperature to 200°F (93°C). Prop the oven door slightly ajar with a wooden spoon to let moisture escape. Bake for another 45-60 minutes until dry and hard.
  9. Turn off the oven and leave cookies inside with the door closed for at least 1 hour to cool completely.
  10. Melt chocolate chips in 15-second intervals in the microwave. Use a toothpick or small piping bag to place two dots on each ghost for eyes. Let set for 10 minutes.

Notes

Ensure all equipment is completely clean and dry, as any grease or water will prevent egg whites from whipping. Avoid plastic bowls. If the kitchen is humid, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the sugar. Do not use brown sugar as it contains molasses which adds moisture. Cool cookies slowly in the turned-off oven to prevent cracking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween treats, meringue cookies, ghost cookies, crispy meringue, easy dessert, gluten-free dessert, vegan option