Gluten-Free Apple Pie Meringue Kisses
These elegant meringue kisses feature a surprise molten center of spiced white chocolate apple truffles that caramelize during baking. The freeze-dried apples and apple pie spice create authentic apple pie flavors, while the crisp meringue shell provides textural contrast. Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or when you want to impress guests with a sophisticated dessert that combines the comfort of apple pie with the refinement of French meringue technique.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Place white chocolate, butter, apple pie spice, and freeze dried apples in a heat proof bowl
- 2
Bring heavy cream to a boil in a small saucepan
- 3
Remove cream from heat and pour over ingredients in bowl
- 4
Let sit for 5 minutes
- 5
Whisk until chocolate has fully melted and ingredients are combined
- 6
Pour into pie pan and cool to room temperature
- 7
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour
- 8
Scoop mixture into 1 inch balls and place on parchment lined baking sheet
- 9
Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 2 hours
- 10
Preheat oven to 250F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper
- 11
Beat egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt on high speed until soft peaks form
- 12
Slowly add sugar 1 tablespoon at a time while beating until stiff glossy peaks form
- 13
Fold in apple pie spice
- 14
Place frozen truffles 3 inches apart on baking sheets
- 15
Pipe meringue over truffles using star tip, covering completely
- 16
Bake for 1 and 1/2 hours without opening oven
- 17
Turn off oven and let cool inside for 30 minutes
- 18
Remove and cool completely on baking sheets before serving
Tips
Freeze truffles completely before piping meringue to prevent melting during assembly and ensure proper caramelization during baking.
Avoid opening oven door during baking as temperature changes can cause meringues to crack or collapse.
The white chocolate will caramelize and turn brown during baking, creating a delicious caramel apple pie center.
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for up to 1 week
Truffles can be made 2 days ahead and kept frozen until ready to pipe meringue
Serve at room temperature for best texture contrast between crisp meringue and soft center
Common Mistakes
Do not overbeat meringue to avoid grainy texture and deflation
Ensure truffles are completely frozen before piping to prevent melting during assembly
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make the truffles ahead of time?
Yes, truffles can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored frozen until ready to pipe the meringue over them.
What if my meringue doesn't hold stiff peaks?
Ensure egg whites are at room temperature and bowl is completely clean. Add cream of tartar to stabilize and beat until glossy peaks form.
How long do these keep?
Store covered at room temperature for up to 1 week. The meringue will stay crisp while the center remains soft.