Chocolate Strawberry Meringue Kisses

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Meringue Kisses
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 24 kisses
Ingredients: 4 large egg whites; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon strawberry extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Strawberry Meringue Kisses whenever I want to impress guests or indulge in a sophisticated treat. The combination of airy meringue, rich chocolate, and sweet strawberries creates a delightful flavor harmony that speaks to both the heart and the palate. Each kiss is a tiny masterpiece, and the vibrant color contrast is stunning. With just a bit of patience, you will find these treats come together beautifully, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is hard to resist. Perfectly sweet and light, they make every occasion feel special.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:46:32.972Z

When I first attempted these Chocolate Strawberry Meringue Kisses, I was amazed by how simple yet elegant they turned out. The key is to whip the egg whites to stiff peaks slowly, which provides that incredible airy consistency that defines meringues. I learned the importance of using room temperature eggs and giving them enough time to come together properly, which can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture.

During one of my baking sessions, I decided to add a hint of cocoa powder to the meringue to enhance the chocolate flavor even more. This small adjustment took the kisses to a new level! Pairing them with sliced fresh strawberries brings a lovely freshness contrast, making every bite a symphony of flavors and textures.

        Why You'll Love These
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Mastering Meringue

Creating the perfect meringue is a delicate process, and understanding the role of each ingredient can elevate your Chocolate Strawberry Meringue Kisses. The egg whites are the backbone, providing structure and volume. Ensure they’re at room temperature; this helps them whip up to a stable foam. If you accidentally get any yolk in your mixture, it can prevent the whites from whipping properly, so be cautious.

When whipping your egg whites, watch for the transition from soft peaks to stiff peaks. This can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the speed of your mixer. The goal is to achieve a glossy, thick consistency that holds its shape. A key tip is to use a clean, dry bowl—any residual fat can hinder the whipping process.

Baking and Cooling Insights

The baking time for your meringues is just as vital as the mixing. Baking them at a low temperature ensures they dry out without browning, which can spoil the aesthetic and flavor. Keep an eye on them during the last half hour; they should feel firm and lift easily off the parchment without sticking. If they’re still tacky, they need more time.

After baking, let the meringues cool in the oven, which can help prevent cracking caused by sudden temperature changes. This gentle cooling process allows the meringues to stabilize and achieve that perfect crisp on the outside while maintaining a soft texture inside.

Serving and Storage Tips

These meringue kisses shine when served fresh, but they can also be made ahead of time. Store the unfilled meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid area, consider adding a packet of silica gel to absorb moisture and maintain their crispness.

When ready to serve, fill them with berries and chocolate just before serving to ensure they remain light and airy. For variations, consider using crushed freeze-dried strawberries mixed into the cocoa powder for an extra burst of flavor or a drizzle of white chocolate to contrast the dark chocolate filling.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Meringue Ingredients

4 large egg whites
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon strawberry extract

Filling Ingredients

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted

Once you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the preparation.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create mouthwatering meringue kisses:

Prepare Meringue Batter

Gradually add the sugar while beating on high until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and strawberry extract.

Pipe Meringue Kisses

Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe small, kiss-shaped mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Once piped, use a spoon to create small dips in the center of each meringue for the filling.

Bake the Meringues

Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for approximately 90 minutes. The meringues should be dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment. Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside.

Fill with Strawberries and Chocolate

Once cooled, carefully melt the dark chocolate. Place a dollop of melted chocolate in the center of each meringue, followed by a few slices of fresh strawberries. Top each meringue with another meringue to create sandwiches.

Now, enjoy your delightful Chocolate Strawberry Meringue Kisses!

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease. This helps in whipping the egg whites to their full potential.

Flavor Pairing Ideas

While the combination of dark chocolate and strawberries is classic, consider experimenting with different fruits like raspberries or even tropical fruits like mango. Each will impart a unique flavor profile and can complement the rich chocolate in exciting ways. Try adding a hint of citrus zest to the chocolate for a refreshing twist.

You can also enhance the meringue flavor with extracts like almond or hazelnut, adding depth. Just be cautious with the quantities; a little goes a long way. This can elevate the overall taste, giving it a more sophisticated profile that guests will appreciate.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter alternative to granulated sugar, consider using powdered sugar. It can help create a smoother meringue since it dissolves more easily. However, ensure that the proportions are adjusted correctly—replace one cup of granulated sugar with approximately three-quarters cup of powdered sugar.

For a dairy-free option, ensure your chocolate is labeled dairy-free or use a vegan chocolate option. This flexibility allows your meringue kisses to cater to various dietary preferences without compromising on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, powdered sugar can be used, but it may affect the texture slightly. Granulated sugar helps create a sturdier meringue.

→ How should I store leftover meringue kisses?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature up to a week. Avoid humidity to keep them crisp.

→ What if my meringue doesn't hold its shape?

Make sure to whip the egg whites to stiff peaks and incorporate the sugar gradually. Room temperature eggs are also crucial.

→ Can I add food coloring to the meringue?

Absolutely! Gel food coloring works best. Add it before piping to achieve a beautiful hue.