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Dorothy Thomas

Forgotten Cookies Recipe

These light, airy meringue cookies are called "forgotten" because you pop them in the oven and then turn it off, leaving them overnight. The result? Delicate, crisp, and melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a sweet vanilla flavor and optional chocolate chips or nuts.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 8 hours
Servings: 24
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 25

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large Egg whites
  • 1/8 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup Chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Chopped nuts (optional)

Equipment

  • Electric mixer (hand or stand)
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), then turn it off immediately.
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  3. In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites and salt with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
  4. Gradually add sugar while beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  5. Mix in vanilla extract.
  6. Gently fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
  7. Drop spoonfuls of meringue onto the baking sheet (about 1-2 tbsp each).
  8. Place cookies in the turned-off oven and leave undisturbed for 6-8 hours (or overnight).
  9. Remove from oven and enjoy! Store in an airtight container.

Notes

✔ Egg whites must be at room temperature for best volume.
✔ Ensure no yolk mixes in, or the meringue won’t whip properly.
✔ Humidity alert: These cookies work best in dry weather.
✔ Variations: Swap chocolate chips for sprinkles, coconut, or cinnamon.