Suspiritos de Cielo (Heavenly Sighs)

Ingredients

• 4 large egg whites 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 50 kcal / 209 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 12g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.02g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 120°C (250°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy.
3. 3.
   Add the salt and continue beating until soft peaks form.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the sugar, a spoonful at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed until stiff peaks form.
5. 5.
   Gently fold in the vanilla extract.
6. 6.
   Using a piping bag fitted with a star tip, pipe small mounds of the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. 7.
   Bake for 1 hour or until the meringue cookies are crisp and dry to the touch.
8. 8.
   Turn off the oven and leave the cookies inside for an additional 30 minutes to cool and dry completely.
9. 9.
   Once cooled, carefully remove the meringue cookies from the parchment paper and store in an airtight container.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Egg whites — Ensure that there is no trace of egg yolk in the whites, as even a small amount can prevent the egg whites from properly whipping.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease, as even a small amount can prevent the egg whites from reaching their full volume.
• Allow the meringue cookies to cool completely in the turned-off oven to ensure they dry out properly and maintain their crispness.
• For added flavor, you can sprinkle the meringue cookies with a dusting of cocoa powder or finely grated lemon zest before baking.

Serving advice

Serve Suspiritos de Cielo as a delightful dessert on their own or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence. They also pair well with a cup of hot chocolate or a fragrant herbal tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Suspiritos de Cielo on a beautiful platter or dessert plate, dusted with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color.