Budget-Friendly Christmas Treats- Festive Meringues and Macarons

Christmas is a time for celebration, but it can also be a time when expenses start to add up. Between buying gifts, decorating the house, and hosting parties, it's easy to overspend during the holiday season. However, you don't have to break the bank to enjoy delicious festive treats. Meringues and macarons are two budget-friendly Christmas treats that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. These treats are perfect for gifting or serving at holiday gatherings.

What Are Meringues?

Meringues are a simple and versatile sweet treat made from whipped egg whites and sugar. They can be flavored with vanilla, peppermint, or citrus zest to create a variety of festive flavors. Meringues are light and airy, with a crispy exterior and a chewy interior. They are perfect for serving alongside hot chocolate or coffee, or for giving as gifts in a decorative tin.

How to Make Festive Meringues:

Meringues are surprisingly easy to make and require only a few ingredients. To make festive meringues, start by preheating your oven to 225F. In a clean bowl, whip 3 egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add 3/4 cup of sugar, continuing to whip until the mixture is glossy and thick.

For festive flavor variations, you can add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, peppermint extract, or citrus zest. Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip, and pipe small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake the meringues for 1-1.5 hours, or until they are crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside.

What Are Macarons?

Macarons are a delicate and colorful French cookie made from almond flour, powdered sugar, and egg whites. They have a crisp outer shell and a soft, chewy interior. Macarons can be filled with flavored buttercream, jam, or chocolate ganache, making them a versatile and decadent treat for the holidays. They are perfect for serving at a holiday party or packaging in a festive box as a gift.

How to Make Festive Macarons:

Despite their reputation for being difficult to make, macarons are actually quite simple once you get the hang of them. To make festive macarons, start by sifting together 1 cup of almond flour and 1 cup of powdered sugar. In a separate bowl, whip 3 egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add 1/4 cup of sugar, continuing to whip until the mixture is glossy and thick.

Gently fold the almond flour mixture into the egg whites, being careful not to deflate the mixture. Transfer the macaron batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip, and pipe small circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let the macarons sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to form a skin, then bake them at 300F for 12-15 minutes, or until they are set.

Cheap Christmas Tips and Ideas:

When it comes to saving money during the holiday season, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you stick to your budget while still enjoying the festive spirit. Here are some cheap Christmas tips and ideas:

• DIY Decorations: Instead of buying expensive decorations, consider making your own. You can create paper snowflakes, hand-painted ornaments, or a garland made from dried fruit.
• Homemade Gifts: Handmade gifts are not only thoughtful but also budget-friendly. Consider baking a batch of meringues or macarons to give to friends and family.
• Potluck Parties: Hosting a holiday party can get expensive, especially if you're providing all the food and drinks. Instead, consider hosting a potluck party where guests bring a dish to share.
• Shop Sales: Take advantage of sales and discounts when shopping for gifts and decorations. Many stores offer discounts during the holiday season, so keep an eye out for deals.

By incorporating these budget-friendly Christmas tips and ideas into your holiday planning, you can enjoy delicious treats like festive meringues and macarons without breaking the bank. These treats are sure to impress your guests or make for a thoughtful gift for loved ones. So this holiday season, get creative in the kitchen and spread the festive cheer without overspending.