24 Irresistible Meringue Desserts: Your Ultimate Guide to Crunchy, Gooey & Sweet Recipes
Meringue, the magical confection crafted from whipped egg whites and sugar, holds a unique place in the world of desserts. It’s a delicate dance of textures – crisp on the outside, delightfully chewy or wonderfully gooey on the inside, offering a sweet lightness that’s simply unmatched. When we think of meringue, our minds often jump straight to the iconic lemon meringue pie, with its towering, golden-brown peaks. And while a perfectly crafted lemon meringue pie is undoubtedly a masterpiece (we even have an incredibly fabulous recipe linked below!), it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the diverse and enchanting world of meringue desserts.
This collection unveils 24 spectacular meringue dessert recipes, designed to inspire your baking adventures and impress your guests at any gathering. You’ll discover how incredibly versatile meringue can be, extending far beyond the familiar. Imagine the airy elegance of a pavlova, piled high with fresh berries and citrus, its delicate crunch giving way to a soft, marshmallow-like interior – a perfect centerpiece for spring and summer celebrations. Meringue isn’t just a topping; it can be the star of the show or a brilliant supporting act, transforming ordinary treats into extraordinary delights.
Beyond pies and pavlovas, meringue can crown adorable cupcakes with a silky, toasted frosting, or elevate a rich cheesecake with a dramatic swirl of sweet, pillowy white. It provides a sophisticated finish to a simple lemon loaf or adds a luxurious cloud-like layer to a creamy banana pudding. For those who love a bit of tang, delicate meringue nests offer a perfect vessel for vibrant fruit curds, creating a stunning interplay of sweet and tart flavors and textures that tantalize the palate.
But the creativity doesn’t stop there. Tiny, perfectly piped meringue cookies, infused with various flavors, make charming homemade gifts, beautifully packaged with a simple bow. They can add an elegant touch to a layered cake or contribute to the delightful chaos of an Eton mess, where crushed meringues mingle playfully with fresh fruit and whipped cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, meringue can even be incorporated into frozen treats like lemon meringue ice cream, used to create whimsical meringue and chocolate cream sandwiches, or transform a classic into a show-stopping S’mores Baked Alaska. The sheer variety of meringue applications ensures there’s always something new and exciting to try.
The possibilities for sweet meringue desserts are truly endless, limited only by your imagination and the simple ingredients of egg whites and sugar. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for new inspiration or simply curious to explore the delicate art of meringue making, this curated list of recipes promises to guide you through a world of light, airy, and utterly delicious creations. Prepare to discover new favorites and elevate your dessert game with these irresistible meringue marvels, each guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone lucky enough to taste them.
1. Lemon and Olive Oil Cake with Toasted Meringue
by Food Nouveau
Elevate a humble loaf cake into a truly spectacular dessert with this recipe for a Lemon and Olive Oil Cake with Toasted Meringue. The cake itself is a marvel of tender crumb and aromatic lemon zest, beautifully complemented by the subtle, fruity notes of olive oil. While delightful as an everyday snack, it transforms into an elegant centerpiece when generously crowned with a cloud of sweet, toasted meringue. The golden-brown peaks of the meringue add a stunning visual appeal and a delightful contrast in texture, marrying the cake’s moistness with the meringue’s airy crispness. This combination creates an unforgettable experience, perfect for afternoon tea or a sophisticated dinner party dessert.
2. Key Lime Pie Cake
by Liv for Cake
Experience the beloved flavors of classic key lime pie in an exciting new format with this incredible Key Lime Pie Cake. This dessert marvel features a moist graham cracker cake base, perfectly embodying the traditional crust. It’s then lavishly topped with a vibrant, tart key lime curd, providing that essential zesty kick. The crowning glory is a generous layer of light-as-air sweet meringue, toasted to perfection, and finished with a crunchy graham cracker crumble. This spectacular meringue dessert offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes, making it a must-try for any Key Lime Pie enthusiast.
3. Meringue Cake with Roasted Pears
by Zoë Bakes
Discover a gluten-free wonder that combines comforting textures and exquisite flavors with this Meringue Cake with Roasted Pears. This unique creation features a tender, soft cake layer as its foundation, beautifully contrasted by a pillowy, airy meringue topping. Infused with the aromatic sweetness of perfectly roasted pears, this dessert redefines what a cake can be. It’s a truly sophisticated treat that proves you don’t always need traditional frosting when you can have the delicate elegance and satisfying chew of meringue instead. Ideal for those seeking an elevated and naturally gluten-free option.
4. Earl Gray Meringue Cake
by Vikalinka
For those special occasions that call for something truly unique and memorable, this Earl Grey Meringue Cake is an absolute must-have. Its delicate layers are infused with the distinctive, fragrant notes of Earl Grey tea, offering a sophisticated twist on a classic dessert. Imagine presenting this beautiful creation for a birthday, an anniversary, or any festive celebration – its elegant appearance and exquisite flavor profile are guaranteed to impress and delight your guests, making it a standout meringue dessert.
5. Passion Fruit Meringue Cheesecake
by Zoë Bakes
Take your love for cheesecake to the next level with this stunning Passion Fruit Meringue Cheesecake. This isn’t just any cheesecake; it’s a masterpiece that marries the creamy indulgence of classic cheesecake with the exotic, tart, and aromatic flavor of passion fruit. Crowned with a glorious swirl of delicate meringue, each slice offers a symphony of textures and tastes. It’s an irresistible and visually spectacular cake that promises to leave your guests utterly speechless and craving for more, proving meringue’s power to transform even the most decadent desserts.
6. No-Bake Strawberry Meringue Cheesecake
by Vikalinka
Every festive table deserves a show-stopping dessert, and this No-Bake Strawberry Meringue Cheesecake is the perfect candidate. This incredible meringue dessert recipe is a dream come true for anyone who adores sweet treats but might shy away from baking. Combining a rich, creamy cheesecake base with fresh, juicy strawberries and a light, airy meringue topping, it delivers a delightful medley of flavors and textures without ever needing to turn on the oven. It’s an elegant, fuss-free option that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
7. S’Mores Cupcakes
by Boston Girl Bakes
Bring the cozy magic of a campfire right to your dessert table with these sensational S’Mores Cupcakes. This inventive recipe masterfully combines a rich, dark chocolate cupcake with a crunchy graham cracker crust base, capturing all the classic s’mores elements. The pièce de résistance is a generous swirl of homemade, perfectly toasted marshmallow meringue frosting, mimicking the gooey perfection of fire-roasted marshmallows. This delightful meringue dessert recipe is so utterly irresistible, it’s guaranteed to disappear from your dessert table in a blink, leaving everyone wishing for s’more!
8. Lemon Meringue Cupcakes
by Food Nouveau
For a vibrant and zesty twist on a beloved classic, these Lemon Meringue Cupcakes are an absolute winner. Taking inspiration from the popular lemon meringue pie, these individual delights feature a bright, tangy lemon cupcake base, perfectly complemented by a swirl of sweet, fluffy meringue. Each bite offers a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness, with the soft cupcake providing a wonderful contrast to the airy meringue. This charming meringue dessert will undoubtedly brighten any and all parties, from lively birthdays to elegant bridal showers, leaving a lasting impression on your guests.
9. Lemon Meringue Pie
by Food Nouveau
Indulge in the timeless perfection of this Lemon Meringue Pie recipe, guaranteed to create a truly memorable dessert experience. This rendition elevates the classic with an easy, cookie-like hazelnut crust, offering a delightful nutty crunch that perfectly complements the vibrant, zesty lemon filling. Crowned with a cloud of creamy, golden Italian meringue, this pie delivers a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and rich flavors. With helpful tips and an instructional video included, achieving this fabulous classic meringue dessert at home has never been easier or more rewarding for all fans of this iconic treat.
10. Chocolate Meringue Pie
by Food Nouveau
Prepare to be transported to cloud nine with this fluffy, dreamy Chocolate Meringue Pie. This indulgent dessert offers a captivating contrast that makes each bite an unforgettable delight. The rich, smooth, and slightly bitter chocolate filling is perfectly balanced by the sweet, airy meringue topping, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. The delicate, melt-in-your-mouth meringue provides a perfect counterpoint to the decadent creaminess of the chocolate, making this meringue pie a sophisticated and deeply satisfying treat for any chocolate lover.
11. Classic Pavlova
by The Bake School
Master the art of this iconic meringue dessert with this recipe for a Classic Pavlova. A true showstopper, the pavlova is an elegant one-layer cake characterized by its ethereal meringue base, which boasts a perfectly crispy shell and a luscious, marshmallowy interior. This particular rendition is generously adorned with vibrant raspberries, tangy lemon curd, and an abundance of rich whipped cream, creating a delightful interplay of sweet and tart, crunchy and creamy. It’s an ideal dessert for any celebration, offering a light yet indulgent experience that beautifully showcases the magic of meringue.
12. Mini Citrus Pavlovas
by Simple Bites
These enchanting Mini Citrus Pavlovas are simply the prettiest springtime dessert you can imagine. Individual meringue bases, crisp on the outside and wonderfully soft within, are topped with bright, zesty citrus fruits. To achieve their perfect texture, the mini meringue bases need to be prepared several hours or even the night before serving, allowing them ample time to dry. Once assembled with their vibrant toppings, these pavlovas are best enjoyed immediately – a suggestion your guests will undoubtedly embrace without a single complaint, savoring every delicate, refreshing bite of this elegant meringue dessert.
13. Strawberry and Rose Eton Mess
by What a Girl Eats
Embrace the delightful chaos of an Eton Mess, an easy and traditional English dessert that’s perfect for showcasing fresh, seasonal produce. This version elevates the classic combination of crushed meringues, fresh berries, and fluffy whipped cream with the elegant, subtle aroma of roses. The delicate floral notes beautifully complement the sweetness of summer strawberries and the airy crunch of the meringue, creating a sophisticated yet wonderfully rustic dessert. It’s the perfect meringue dessert recipe to highlight the vibrant flavors of summer in a beautiful, delightfully messy presentation.
14. Cranberry Orange Eton Mess
by Simple Bites
For a refreshing and elegant take on a classic, this Cranberry Orange Eton Mess delivers a simple yet sophisticated dessert experience. It skillfully combines soft, airy whipped cream with deliciously crunchy meringue pieces and juicy, tart cranberries and oranges. While it serves as an excellent holiday dessert, its versatility shines through as you can easily substitute your favorite seasonal fresh fruits to enjoy it year-round. This fuss-free meringue dessert is perfect for entertaining, offering a beautiful balance of textures and bright flavors that will impress your guests with minimal effort.
15. Banana Pudding
by What the Fork
Indulge in the comforting classic that is homemade Banana Pudding, elevated to new heights with a fluffy meringue topping. This recipe stands out not only for its ease of preparation but also for being naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for various dietary needs. The creamy, sweet banana pudding base, layered with tender vanilla wafers and ripe bananas, is crowned with a light, airy meringue that bakes to a beautiful golden perfection. This fuss-free meringue dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ensuring the whole family will be delighted with every spoonful.
16. Vegan Meringue Nests with Lemon Passion Fruit Curd
by Addicted to Dates
For a delightful and inclusive dessert, these Vegan Meringue Nests with Lemon Passion Fruit Curd are an ingenious creation. These egg-free mini pavlovas are crafted using aquafaba, delivering the same crisp exterior and soft interior as traditional meringues, but entirely plant-based. Filled with a bright and tangy vegan lemon passion fruit curd, they offer a burst of exotic flavor. Perfectly served with dairy-free cream, these vegan meringue nests are a testament to how creative and delicious plant-based baking can be, offering a wonderful option for everyone to enjoy.
17. S’mores Baked Alaska
by Liv for Cake
Take a thrilling culinary journey that combines retro charm with campfire nostalgia in this spectacular S’mores Baked Alaska. This modern-day rendition of an old classic cleverly merges the fun of a frozen dessert with the irresistible flavors of your favorite s’mores treat. Imagine layers of chocolatey goodness and graham cracker crunch, all enveloped in a perfectly torched meringue that mimics the toasted marshmallow experience. This innovative meringue dessert recipe is a true showstopper, guaranteed to create a dramatic and delicious impression at any gathering.
18. Lemon Meringue Ice Cream
by Baked the Blog
Prepare for an unexpected delight with this dreamy Lemon Meringue Ice Cream – it’s just as irresistible as it sounds! This innovative meringue dessert recipe brilliantly combines a velvety, intensely flavored lemon ice cream base with delightful crumbled meringue pieces, adding bursts of airy texture. Swirls of tart lemon curd are then woven throughout, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy flavors in every spoonful. It’s a sophisticated and refreshing frozen treat that captures all the beloved elements of a lemon meringue pie in a wonderfully cool and creamy format.
19. Merveilleux (Meringue and Chocolate Cream Sandwich Pastries)
by Pardon Your French
Indulge in the exquisite pleasure of a Merveilleux, a quintessential French dessert that promises a flawless marriage of textures. These delicate pastries feature light-as-air, crispy-yet-melt-in-your-mouth meringues, lovingly sandwiched with a rich, fluffy chocolate cream. To complete this symphony of indulgence, they are then covered in crunchy chocolate shards, adding another layer of delightful texture. Each bite of this meringue and chocolate cream sandwich is a luxurious experience, making it a truly wondrous and elegant treat for any discerning palate.
20. Crispy Maple Meringues
by Food Nouveau
These adorable bite-sized Crispy Maple Meringues are a pure delight, offering a unique blend of delicate texture and comforting flavor. Super crisp on the outside, they instantly melt in your mouth, releasing their delightful, warm maple aroma and sweet taste. These elegant little confections are not only incredibly delicious but also make for an utterly irresistible edible gift, beautifully presented with a simple ribbon. This meringue dessert recipe proves that even the simplest meringues can be utterly captivating, perfect for sharing or savoring yourself with a cup of coffee or tea.
21. Meringue Cookies
by BellyFull
Discover the charm of these lovely little Meringue Cookies – light, airy, crisp, and delicately sweet. These versatile treats are not only naturally gluten-free and low-calorie but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for serving with a cup of coffee, adorning a dessert platter, or simply enjoying as a guilt-free snack, they add an elegant touch to any occasion. Follow these simple steps and expert tips for flawless meringue cookies every single time, ensuring a beautiful and delicious result that will impress everyone.
22. Chocolate and Pistachio Meringue Cookies
by Frugal Mom Eh
If you’re seeking a truly show-stopping meringue dessert, look no further than these exquisite Chocolate & Pistachio Meringue Cookies. These melt-in-your-mouth treats combine the ethereal lightness of meringue with the rich indulgence of chocolate and the distinctive crunch of pistachios. Each delicate cookie is elegantly dipped in luscious chocolate and then generously sprinkled with vibrant pistachio bits, creating a sophisticated flavor and textural experience. They are perfect for gifting, holiday platters, or simply as an impressive treat that will captivate all your guests.
23. Small-Batch Chocolate Swirl Meringue Cookies
by Simple Bites
For those times when you crave a homemade treat without an overwhelming quantity, these Small-Batch Chocolate Swirl Meringue Cookies are simply perfect. This meringue dessert recipe offers a festive and fun baking project, resulting in light, airy cookies with beautiful chocolatey swirls. Their delicate crispness and subtle sweetness make them an ideal addition to any dessert table, though be warned – once placed, they have a magical tendency to disappear in an instant! They’re a delightful way to enjoy a fresh batch of meringue cookies without excess.
24. Italian Hazelnut-Chocolate Meringue Cookies
by Familystyle Food
Prepare to be enchanted by these irresistibly crunchy Italian Hazelnut-Chocolate Meringue Cookies, also known as ‘Baci’ or ‘cookie kisses’. These delightful sandwich cookies combine a crisp, cocoa-flavored meringue cookie with a luscious, rich chocolate hazelnut spread, reminiscent of beloved Italian confections. The harmonious blend of airy crunch, deep chocolate, and nutty hazelnut creates a truly addictive experience. Bet you can’t eat just one! These elegant meringue cookies are perfect for an after-dinner treat or a sophisticated homemade gift.