If you have ever made meringue, you know it can be fussy.
It collapses, itweeps, it gets chewy, or it simply refuses to stiffen.
What is Meringue Powder?
Credit: Blaine Moats
you’ve got the option to make meringue powder at home or find it anywherecake decoratingsupplies are sold.
Fresh,raw egg whites can be contaminated with salmonella.
That makes it a better, safer choice to use in uncooked recipes likeroyal icingandother frosting recipes.
Usually, you’ll mix the powder with water before adding it to other ingredients.
About 2 teaspoons of meringue powder mixed with 2 tablespoons of water can be substituted for one egg white.
Some cooked recipes simply taste better using real egg whites.
Since meringue powder contains a small amount of sugar, it adds a touch of sweetness.
That may be fine for desserts but off-putting in acheese souffle.
Your recipe may not turn out quite as sweet or fluffy.
Surprisingly, if you beat aquafaba, it’ll form fluffy peaks just like egg whites or meringue powder.
And as a bonus,it’s vegan.
You’ll just have to add a little sugar and vanilla to make it sweet enough for dessert.
Don’t substitute cream of tartar for meringue powder.
Meringue powder and cream of tartar have different uses, though they’re both often included inmeringue recipes.
Does Meringue Powder Expire?
Just keep it in a cool, dry environmentlike the back of your pantry or a cabinet.
You might be surprised at how often you find yourself reaching for it.
If you are concerned about the safety of using fresh eggs in cocktails, consider using aquafaba instead.
Some brands of meringue powder are gluten-free, but it is important to check the label.
