Lucy M. A light and crispy dessert topped with fresh summer berries and a glossy finish.
If you’re craving a dessert that’s as light as a cloud but bursting with juicy summer vibes, you’re in for a treat! Summer Fruit Meringue Nests are my go-to when I want something sweet, fresh, and totally show-stopping without the fuss. Imagine crispy, airy meringue nests loaded with vibrant berries that pop with every bite — it’s like a party in your mouth! Whether you’re whipping these up for friends or just treating yourself, these nests are a fun twist on classic desserts and a total winner every time. Let’s get mixing and bring those Summer Fruit Meringue Nests to life!
Ingredients
For the meringue:
- 4 extra-large egg whites
- 1¾ cups (225g) powdered sugar
- A few drops of vanilla extract (optional)
For the fruit topping:
- 1 cup (115g) raspberries
- ⅔ cup (115g) blueberries
- ¾ cup (115g) strawberries, halved if big
- 2 tablespoons red currant jelly
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Use a clean bowl to beat the egg whites with an electric mixer. Beat until soft peaks form, which means the egg whites hold shape but the tips flop over.
- Slowly add the powdered sugar, a little at a time, while beating constantly. Keep mixing until the meringue becomes thick, shiny, and holds stiff peaks. Add vanilla extract if you like and mix briefly.
- Spoon dollops of the meringue onto the baking tray. Shape each into a small circle and gently make a shallow well in the center to hold the fruit later.
- Bake the meringue for 45-50 minutes. When done, they should feel dry and firm. Turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside to cool slowly. This helps prevent cracking.
- While the meringues cool, prepare the fruit. Gently mix the strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries in a bowl.
- Warm the red currant jelly in a small pan or microwave until it melts. Brush it lightly over the fruit for a shiny finish and extra sweetness.
- Fill each cooled meringue nest with the fruit mixture. Drizzle some jelly on top for sparkle.
- Serve your Summer Fruit Meringue Nests right away to enjoy the crisp texture and fresh flavors.
Easy Summer Fruit Meringue Nests Recipe for Beginners
Ingredients
Method
- Heat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Use a clean bowl to beat the egg whites with an electric mixer. Beat until soft peaks form, which means the egg whites hold shape but the tips flop over.
- Slowly add the powdered sugar, a little at a time, while beating constantly. Keep mixing until the meringue becomes thick, shiny, and holds stiff peaks. Add vanilla extract if you like and mix briefly.
- Spoon dollops of the meringue onto the baking tray. Shape each into a small circle and gently make a shallow well in the center to hold the fruit later.
- Bake the meringue for 45-50 minutes. When done, they should feel dry and firm. Turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside to cool slowly. This helps prevent cracking.
- While the meringues cool, prepare the fruit. Gently mix the strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries in a bowl.
- Warm the red currant jelly in a small pan or microwave until it melts. Brush it lightly over the fruit for a shiny finish and extra sweetness.
- Fill each cooled meringue nest with the fruit mixture. Drizzle some jelly on top for sparkle.
- Serve your Summer Fruit Meringue Nests right away to enjoy the crisp texture and fresh flavors.
Notes
Creative Filling Ideas for Your Meringue Nests and Shapes
If you want to switch things up and try some fun fillings, here’s a simple way to do it. Take about 1¼ cups (300ml) of heavy cream and whip it together with a tablespoon of brandy or your favorite liqueur until it becomes firm and holds its shape. Then, split the whipped cream into two separate bowls. In one bowl, mix in ¼ cup (30g) of chopped nuts for a crunchy twist, while keeping the other bowl plain and smooth. Use the nut-flavored cream to sandwich together spiral-shaped meringue oblongs and small shell-shaped pieces. Then, pipe a bit of the plain whipped cream into the little meringue baskets and use it to hold finger-shaped pieces together. For a finishing touch, add a single small piece of fruit on top of each basket and sandwiched finger. These varied shapes and tasty fillings not only taste amazing but also make a colorful and eye-catching centerpiece for any party dessert table!Creative Filling Ideas for Your Meringue Nests and Shapes
If you want to switch things up and try some fun fillings, here’s a simple way to do it. Take about 1¼ cups (300ml) of heavy cream and whip it together with a tablespoon of brandy or your favorite liqueur until it becomes firm and holds its shape. Then, split the whipped cream into two separate bowls. In one bowl, mix in ¼ cup (30g) of chopped nuts for a crunchy twist, while keeping the other bowl plain and smooth.
Use the nut-flavored cream to sandwich together spiral-shaped meringue oblongs and small shell-shaped pieces. Then, pipe a bit of the plain whipped cream into the little meringue baskets and use it to hold finger-shaped pieces together. For a finishing touch, add a single small piece of fruit on top of each basket and sandwiched finger.
These varied shapes and tasty fillings not only taste amazing but also make a colorful and eye-catching centerpiece for any party dessert table!
Nutritional Value (per serving, serves 4)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugars: 38g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
These Summer Fruit Meringue Nests are a fantastic way to enjoy fresh berries in a light dessert. I find them easy to make and they always impress guests with their beautiful look and tasty crunch. If you want a refreshing treat with minimal fuss, give this recipe a try. It’s a sweet way to celebrate summer any day!
