Can I make these without chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Try dried fruit like cranberries or chopped dried strawberries, or go simple with just nuts and vanilla for classic meringue cookies.

What if I don't have parchment paper?

Silicone baking mats work great. In a pinch, you can lightly grease baking sheets, but parchment gives the best results for easy removal.

Can I open the oven door to check on them?

It's best not to during the first 6-8 hours, as this releases the gentle heat needed for proper cooking. After 8 hours, a quick peek is fine.

Why are my cookies not crispy?

Humidity can affect meringues. Try making them on a dry day, or leave them in the closed oven an extra hour or two if your kitchen is humid.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use additional baking sheets and make sure they all fit in your oven at once since you can't rotate them during the overnight baking process.

How do I know if my egg whites are beaten enough?

Properly beaten whites should hold stiff peaks that don't fall over when you lift the beater. The mixture should look glossy and feel smooth, not gritty, when rubbed between fingers.

Forgotten Cookies Recipe: Easy Meringue Treats That Bake Themselves

Description

Forgotten Cookies are irresistible light and airy treats with a sweet, crunchy texture that make every bite a delightful surprise.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 large egg whites, at room temperature
⅔ cup granulated sugar
1 cup mini chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Substitution Options

Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written
Dairy-free: Use dairy-free chocolate chips
Vegan: Replace egg whites with aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas) – use 6 tablespoons
Nut-free: Substitute nuts with toasted coconut flakes or dried fruit
Chocolate alternatives: Try butterscotch chips, dried cranberries, or mini marshmallows

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Instructions

Prep Oven & Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Whip Egg Whites
Beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Fold in Add-Ins
Gently fold in vanilla, salt, chocolate chips, and nuts.
Shape Cookies
Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets, about 1 inch apart.
Bake (No-Bake Method)
Place sheets in oven, turn oven off immediately, and keep door closed for 8 hours or overnight.
Check Texture
Cookies should be crisp outside and slightly chewy inside. Leave longer if needed.

Prep Time: 15m
Cook Time: 8h
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 45 calorie
Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 1g