Colorful Meringue Cookies

Preheat oven to 225 degrees F.

Beat egg whites on medium speed until frothy in a large bowl. If using a freestanding mixer, use wire whisk attachment. Add cream of tartar; beat on medium speed until whites form soft peaks.

Increase speed to medium-high and add sugar 1 tablespoon at a time, continually beating until sugar is dissolved and whites form stiff peaks.

Add extract and food color (amount as needed for desired color) and beat until color is well blended. Gently stir in chocolate chips if desired.

Drop by rounded measuring teaspoonfuls about 1 inch apart onto 2 large baking sheets, lined either with nonstick-foil or regular foil coated with cooking spray.

Bake all meringues at the same time 45 minutes. Turn off oven and allow meringues to cool in oven 1 hour.

cook's notes

You can divide the meringue up and add different food colors if desired.