Dessert: Meringue Kisses

Simple and tasty, meringue cookies are a satisfying snack. The ingredient list is short but the process is sticky and lengthy. Here's the classic Joy of Cooking meringue kisses recipe:

• 3 large egg whites
• 1/4 tsp cream of tar tar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2/4 tsp vanilla

Pre-heat the oven to 225 degrees.

Beat in a medium glass or metal bowl the egg whites, cream of tartar and salt until foamy. Increase the speed to high and beat the mixture until it beings to form soft peaks. Gradually add the sugar and keep mixing until well combined. Reduce the speed to low and add the vanilla. Beat until the meringue is glossy and stands in very stiff peaks.
Line 2 cookie sheets with wax paper, or leave ungreased. You can use a zipper topped plastic bag to pipe the meringue into 1 1/4 inch drops, or use tablespoons to drop the batter. Make sure they are about 1 inch apart.

Bake for 45 minutes, rotating the sheet half way through. Turn the heat off and leave the meringues in the oven for about 30 minutes, or until cool.