Crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside, Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Meringues are a delicate and delightful treat. Lightly flavored with strawberry extract and dipped in dark chocolate, these pretty-in-pink bites make an elegant dessert for holidays, parties, or everyday indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These strawberry meringues are a perfect balance of light and decadent. They require just a handful of ingredients but offer a stunning visual and textural contrast—airy and crisp meringue paired with rich, velvety chocolate. Naturally gluten-free and low in calories, they’re a guilt-free sweet you can enjoy any time. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or gifting a homemade treat, these meringues are as charming as they are delicious.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- egg whites, room temperature
- granulated sugar
- cream of tartar
- salt
- strawberry extract
- pink gel food coloring (optional)
- dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- freeze-dried strawberries, crushed (optional for garnish)
directions
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a clean, grease-free mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until frothy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating on high until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Gently fold in the salt, strawberry extract, and a touch of pink food coloring if using, until evenly combined.
- Spoon or pipe the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small rounds, spaced slightly apart.
- Bake for 1.5 hours. Then, turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside to cool slowly with the oven door slightly ajar.
- Once cooled completely, dip the bottoms of the meringues in melted chocolate and place on parchment paper to set.
- Garnish with crushed freeze-dried strawberries if desired.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve texture.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 18 meringues
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Calories per serving: 70 kcal
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of dipping, drizzle the tops with melted chocolate for a decorative finish.
- Lemon Twist: Replace strawberry extract with lemon extract and use yellow coloring for a zesty variation.
- Berry Mix: Add a hint of raspberry or cherry extract for a blended berry flavor.
- Mini Meringues: Pipe smaller rounds for bite-sized party treats.
- Double Chocolate: Add a dusting of cocoa powder to the meringue before baking for an extra chocolate layer.
storage/reheating
Store meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep them away from humidity to preserve their crisp texture. Do not refrigerate, as moisture can cause them to soften. These are best enjoyed fresh and do not require reheating.
FAQs
Why are my meringues soft or sticky?
This usually happens when they weren’t baked long enough or due to high humidity. Ensure a full bake and cool in a dry environment.
Can I make these without cream of tartar?
Yes, substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to help stabilize the egg whites.
What’s the best way to melt chocolate for dipping?
Use a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they store well at room temperature and can be made a few days in advance.
What piping tip should I use for the best look?
A large star or round tip creates a clean and elegant appearance.
Do I need to use food coloring?
No, the pink color is optional and does not affect the flavor—it’s purely for presentation.
Can I add crushed strawberries to the batter?
No, adding moisture-rich ingredients can prevent the meringue from whipping properly. Stick to extracts and dry flavorings.
Is strawberry extract necessary?
Yes, for flavor. Without it, the meringue will be sweet but not distinctly fruity.
How do I know when the meringues are done baking?
They should be dry to the touch and lift easily off the parchment without sticking.
Can I freeze meringues?
Freezing is not recommended, as it may cause the meringues to absorb moisture and lose their crispness.
Conclusion
Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Meringues are a light, elegant treat that combines sweet berry flavor with the richness of chocolate. With their crisp exterior, soft center, and beautiful color, they make a lovely addition to dessert platters or festive gift boxes. Simple yet sophisticated, these meringues are a perfect example of how a few quality ingredients can create something truly special.
PrintChocolate Dipped Strawberry Meringues
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these pretty-in-pink strawberry meringues are dipped in rich chocolate for a light yet decadent treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 18 meringues 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 3 large egg whites, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp strawberry extract
- Pink gel food coloring (optional)
- 1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- Freeze-dried strawberries, crushed (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 225°F (110°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until frothy.
- Gradually add granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Add salt, strawberry extract, and a touch of pink food coloring. Gently fold to combine.
- Spoon or pipe meringue into small rounds onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 1.5 hours, then turn off the oven and let the meringues cool inside with the door slightly ajar.
- Once fully cooled, dip the bottoms of each meringue in melted chocolate. Let set on parchment paper.
- Sprinkle crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top for garnish if desired.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure no yolk is in the egg whites to help them whip properly.
- Do not open the oven during baking or cooling to avoid cracking.
- Great for make-ahead desserts—store for up to 5 days in a dry place.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meringue
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg