Description

Citrus Mini Citrus Cloud Bites are airy, melt-in-your-mouth cookies featuring bright citrus zest and a tender crumb. These delightful treats combine whipped egg whites, sugar, and fresh lemon and orange zest for a subtle yet vibrant flavor. Perfect for tea parties, snacks, or dessert platters, they offer a balance of sweetness and tang, with a pillowy texture that earns them the name ‘cloud bites.’

Ingredients

Scale

2 large egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar and salt on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Gently fold in lemon zest, orange zest, and vanilla extract with a spatula.
Spoon or pipe small mounds (about 1-inch wide) onto prepared baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart.
Bake for 40-45 minutes until dry to the touch but still pale.
Turn off oven and let cookies cool in oven with door ajar for another 30 minutes.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Notes

Citrus zest can be swapped for lime or grapefruit for different flavors. Store in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 5 days; humidity may affect texture, so re-crisp in a low oven if needed. If meringues are sticky, bake a little longer or let cool further in the oven. Ensure no yolk gets into egg whites for guaranteed stiff peaks.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bite
Calories: 16
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 8mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg