The wonder of meringues

Preparation

• Place the egg whites in a large bowl, let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Beat egg whites, vanilla, cream of tartar and food coloring if desired on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, on high until stiff peaks form.
• Cut small hole in the corner of a pastry or plastic bag; insert #3 star pastry tip. Fill the bag with meringue. Pipe 2-in. circles or shapes 2 in. apart onto parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Sprinkle with pearl sugar if desired.
• Bake at 300° for 20-25 minutes or until set and dry. Turn off oven and do not open door; leave the meringues in the oven for 1 hour. Store in an air-tight container.