Air Fryer Meringue

Air Fryer Meringues are delicate, crisp-on-the-outside, and melt-in-your-mouth on the inside. Using an air fryer instead of the oven reduces cooking time and keeps your kitchen cool while delivering perfectly crisp meringues. They are perfect as a light dessert, a topping for pies, or just a sweet snack with coffee or tea.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this air fryer method makes meringues simple, fun, and foolproof.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light, airy, and crisp meringues
Quick and easy using an air fryer
Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
Perfect for desserts, gifts, or snacks
Can be flavored and colored to your liking

Ingredients

3 large egg whites, at room temperature
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, helps stabilize meringue)
Optional: food coloring or cocoa powder for flavor variations

Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Electric mixer or whisk
Piping bag with star tip (optional)
Parchment paper or silicone mat

Prep Time

Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 30–40 minutes
Total time: ~45–50 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Whites

Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better volume.
In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form.

Step 2: Add Sugar

Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed.
Beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.
Stir in vanilla extract. Add optional coloring or flavorings if desired.

Step 3: Pipe or Scoop Meringues

Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Use a piping bag with a star tip to pipe small mounds, or use a spoon to drop dollops of meringue.
Ensure there is space between each meringue to allow air circulation.

Step 4: Air Fry

Preheat the air fryer to 200°F (95°C) or the lowest setting.
Cook meringues for 30–40 minutes, or until they are crisp on the outside and lift easily from the parchment.
Turn off the air fryer and leave meringues inside to cool completely for extra crispness.

Step 5: Serve

Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Perfect as a topping for pies, ice cream, or hot chocolate.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Meringues

Use clean bowls and beaters—any grease will prevent stiff peaks.
Add sugar gradually for a glossy, stable meringue.
Avoid humidity—meringues absorb moisture and lose crispness in damp conditions.
Cool completely in the air fryer or on a rack to keep them crunchy.
Keep them small for uniform cooking; large meringues may need longer.

Variations

Chocolate Meringues: Add 1–2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the sugar before beating.
Coffee Meringues: Add 1 teaspoon instant coffee dissolved in a small amount of water.
Fruit-Flavored: Fold in finely crushed freeze-dried berries for color and flavor.
Mini Sandwiches: Use two meringues with chocolate ganache or whipped cream in between.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fruit for a light dessert.
Top cakes or pies for an elegant presentation.
Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a sweet snack.

Storage

Keep meringues in an airtight container at room temperature.
Avoid refrigeration—it can make them sticky.
Store separately from moist desserts until ready to serve.

A Light and Airy Treat

Air Fryer Meringues are a quick, easy, and elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Their crisp exterior, airy interior, and customizable flavors make them a versatile treat. Whether for a snack, dessert, or a decorative topping, these meringues are sure to impress.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
Total Time: ~45–50 minutes
Yield: 12–15 small meringues