A delightful and fluffy vanilla meringue topping, perfect for pies and desserts.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even baking and a consistent texture.
In a clean mixing bowl, add the egg whites and salt.
Ensure the bowl is grease-free for the best meringue results.
Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until frothy.
Start at a lower speed to avoid overbeating.
Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
Adding sugar slowly ensures a smooth and glossy meringue.
Gently fold in the vanilla extract using a spatula.
Folding gently prevents deflating the meringue.
Spread the meringue evenly over your pie or dessert.
Create decorative peaks using the back of a spoon for a beautiful presentation.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
Keep an eye on the meringue to prevent overbrowning.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Cooling helps the meringue set and makes serving easier.