When the Halloween season creeps closer, my kitchen transforms into a whimsical realm of cheerful scares, vibrant colors, and mouthwatering treats. Among all the spooky delights I’ve concocted, nothing brings as much joy—or giggles—than my Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes. Just imagining fluffy, delicate ghosts perched atop scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream instantly lifts my spirits.
Picture this: the light crunch of meringue, a sweet pop of raspberry coulis, and the playful sight of ghostly eyes that can charm both kids and adults alike. It’s the perfect blend of fright and delight for a festive gathering or a cozy family dessert night. With just a few simple ingredients like British Blacktail Free Range Large Egg whites and caster sugar, you’re just moments away from a fun creation that everyone will love.
So, if you’re ready to leave fast food behind and whip up something homemade that’s as delightful to serve as it is to eat, let’s dive into this spooky yet surprisingly easy recipe!
Why are Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes so special?
Whimsical Fun: These playful treats are perfect for both children and adults, making any occasion a memorable one.
Easy to Make: You won’t need advanced baking skills—just whip those egg whites and pipe your ghosts!
Versatile Delight: Switch up the coulis flavor or ice cream type to match your mood or season.
Sensational Presentation: The contrast of white meringue and vibrant raspberry coulis makes for a stunning dessert.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for parties, these sundae ghosts are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces!
Light and Crunchy: Enjoy the airy texture of meringue complemented by the creaminess of vanilla ice cream—all in one bite!
Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes Ingredients
For the Meringues
• British Blacktail Free Range Large Egg whites – using fresh egg whites will give you the best volume and texture.
• Caster sugar – this fine sugar dissolves quickly, ensuring a smooth meringue.
• White wine vinegar – adds stability to your meringue for that perfect fluffiness.
For the Ghost Decoration
• Raspberry coulis or strawberry flavor dessert sauce – a fun way to add a pop of flavor and color to your sundae.
• Red food colouring gel – this will help create a spooky effect for your ghostly treats.
• Cake Decor Edible Eyes – these charming eyes bring your meringue ghosts to life!
• Cake Décor Edible Glue – an easy way to attach the eyes securely to your meringue.
For the Sundaes
• Vanilla ice cream – creamy and classic, this pairs beautifully with the airy meringue.
Now you’re fully equipped to create these delightful Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes that will be the highlight of your Halloween festivities!
How to Make Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes
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Preheat the oven to 110°C (gas mark ¼) and line a baking sheet with baking parchment. This ensures your ghosts won’t stick and will bake evenly.
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Beat the egg whites in a large bowl using an electric hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the caster sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating well between each addition for a thick, glossy meringue.
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Pipe the meringue mix into a piping bag fitted with a 1.5cm nozzle. Pipe ghost shapes on the baking sheet, about 5cm in diameter—aim for 10-12 adorable little spirits!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, until the ghosts are set and crisp on the outside. Once done, turn the oven off and let them cool inside for the best texture.
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Mix the raspberry coulis or dessert sauce with the red food coloring to achieve a spooky red hue. Use a small dab of edible glue to attach a pair of edible eyes to each ghost, giving them a delightful personality!
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Scoop vanilla ice cream into 4 sundae glasses. Gently place a ghost on each scoop, drizzle with your vibrant sauce, and serve immediately. Watch those smiles appear!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra edible glitter for a magical touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes
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Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest British Blacktail Free Range Large Egg whites possible; stale or older eggs can lead to poor meringue volume.
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Slow Sugar Addition: To prevent graininess, add caster sugar to the beaten egg whites one tablespoon at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more.
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Proper Cooling: Always cool your meringues in the oven after baking. This helps achieve that perfect crisp crust while keeping the inside light and airy.
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Piping Technique: Pipe the ghosts with a steady hand to ensure even shapes and sizes. Don’t worry about perfecting each ghost—each one has its own personality!
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Storage Tip: If not serving immediately, store the meringue ghosts in an airtight container to maintain their crispness, but assemble the sundae just before serving for the best experience.
With these expert tips, your Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes will not only look enchanting but taste heavenly!
Make Ahead Options
These Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the Halloween season! You can prepare the meringue ghosts up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the baking instructions and store the cooled meringues in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp. As for the raspberry coulis, mix it and refrigerate for up to 3 days—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully! When you’re ready to assemble your sundaes, just scoop the vanilla ice cream into glasses, add the meringue ghosts, and drizzle with the coulis. This way, you can whip up a festive dessert with minimal effort but maximum delight!
What to Serve with Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes?
Looking to create the ultimate dessert experience? Let’s explore some delightful pairings to elevate your spooky sundae night!
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Crunchy Biscotti: These crunchy delights add a satisfying texture contrast to the soft ice cream and meringue, making every bite an adventure. Serve a few alongside for dipping and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors.
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Chilled Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh fruits like berries and melons balances the sweetness of the sundae while adding a refreshing note. The burst of natural flavors complements the raspberry coulis beautifully!
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Rich and indulgent, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce brings a luxurious touch to your meringue ghosts. The sweet chocolate pairs perfectly with creamy vanilla for a decadent dessert combination.
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Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A cup of coffee or steaming hot chocolate offers a cozy beverage option that cuts through the sweetness. The bitterness of coffee harmonizes with the playful flavors and enhances the indulgent experience.
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Decorative Sprinkles: Bright and colorful sprinkles make your sundae even more festive and engaging for kids. They add a fun visual element that amplifies the joy of serving these playful treats.
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Pumpkin Spice Cake: For something seasonal, a slice of moist pumpkin spice cake provides warming spices that contrast delightfully with the light meringue. It’s a perfect way to embrace autumn festivities!
Embrace your inner chef and mix and match these pairings to craft a wonderfully memorable dessert experience with your Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes!
How to Store and Freeze Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes
Room Temperature: Meringue ghosts can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping them crispy and perfect for snacking.
Fridge: If assembled, the ice cream sundae should be enjoyed immediately. However, unassembled meringue ghosts can be kept in the fridge for a short time, about 1 day.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for assembled sundaes, as the ice cream will melt. If you’d like to freeze the meringues alone, they can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
Reheating: Meringues should not be reheated; simply enjoy them as is for a delightful crunch paired with your cold ice cream!
Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on these delightful treats!
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Chocolate Twist: Replace vanilla ice cream with rich chocolate ice cream for a decadent combo. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the lightness of the meringue.
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Fruity Flavor: Swap the raspberry coulis for mango or passion fruit puree. This serves up a tropical twist that’s refreshingly delicious!
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Nut-Free: Use aquafaba (chickpea brine) instead of egg whites. It whips up just like eggs and makes a perfect meringue for those avoiding eggs.
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Colorful Ghosts: Get vibrant! Instead of just red, create a collection of ghostly colors using different food colorings. Each ghost can have its own personality!
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Spooky Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the meringue mixture for an autumnal touch. It brings in a warm flavor that’ll have everyone guessing what’s in it!
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Crunchy Bits: Fold in some crushed nuts or crushed cookie crumbs into the meringue for an extra crunch. This twist adds a nice texture alongside the smooth ice cream.
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Heat it Up: Drizzle some chili-infused chocolate sauce instead of coulis for a surprising spicy kick. The heat contrasts beautifully with the sweetness!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute vanilla ice cream with coconut or almond milk ice cream for a dairy-free version that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s creamy and delicious!
With these variations, your Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes can be as unique as your Halloween spirit! Enjoy customizing each scoop!
Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right egg whites for my meringues?
Absolutely! Using fresh British Blacktail Free Range Large Egg whites is crucial for achieving the best volume and texture. Look for egg whites that are clear and runny rather than cloudy or thick. Fresh eggs will whip up to stiff peaks much better, giving you that lovely fluffy meringue texture!
How should I store leftover meringue ghosts?
You can store meringue ghosts at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, they’ll stay crispy and delightful for snacking. If you’re planning on storing them longer, keep them in a cool, dry place, away from humidity—this helps maintain their charming crunch!
Can I freeze the Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes?
While freezing assembled sundaes is not recommended—since the ice cream will melt and the meringues can lose their crispness—you can freeze the meringues alone! Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, just take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.
I’m having trouble with my meringue not forming stiff peaks. What should I do?
Very! If your meringue doesn’t reach stiff peaks, it could be due to a few reasons. Ensure that your bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease. Even a tiny amount of fat can prevent egg whites from whipping up properly. If your egg whites are fresh and you’re gradually adding the sugar while beating, you should see those peaks form beautifully!
Can I modify the recipe to make it allergy-friendly?
Absolutely! For those with egg allergies or dietary restrictions, there are meringue alternatives using aquafaba (the liquid from chickpeas) that can create a vegan-friendly meringue. Use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for every egg white needed, and whip until fluffy, following the same method for adding sugar and stabilizers. Enjoy your spooky treat without worry!
Is there a way to ensure my meringues are perfectly crispy?
Yes, definitely! To guarantee your meringues turn out crispy, make sure to bake them at a low temperature (110°C) for the full 30 minutes. Once they’re done, turning off the oven and letting them cool inside helps maintain that delightful crunch while preventing any premature moisture from ruining your ghostly delights. Enjoy making these enchanting Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes!
Meringue Ghost Ice Cream Sundaes That Wow Every Sweet Tooth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 110°C (gas mark ¼) and line a baking sheet with baking parchment.
- Beat the egg whites in a large bowl using an electric hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add the caster sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating well between each addition.
- Pipe the meringue mix into a piping bag fitted with a 1.5cm nozzle.
- Pipe ghost shapes on the baking sheet, about 5cm in diameter—aim for 10-12 adorable little spirits!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, until the ghosts are set and crisp on the outside.
- Mix the raspberry coulis or dessert sauce with the red food coloring.
- Use a small dab of edible glue to attach a pair of edible eyes to each ghost.
- Scoop vanilla ice cream into sundae glasses, place a ghost on each scoop, drizzle with sauce, and serve.