Pastel Kisses Mini Meringues (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 4 egg whites, room temperature
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 - 1/4 teaspoon coconut extract
05 - 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
06 - Blue food gel
07 - Green food gel
08 - Yellow food gel
09 - Pink food gel

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 200°F and line 2 to 3 baking trays with parchment paper. Set aside.
02 - In the bowl of a stand mixer or in a large bowl with a hand mixer, whip egg whites until soft peaks form, about 3 to 5 minutes.
03 - While still whipping the egg whites, gradually add sugar, one small spoonful at a time. After all sugar is incorporated, add vanilla, coconut, and almond extracts. Continue to whip until stiff, glossy peaks form.
04 - Divide the meringue into 4 bowls and tint each portion with one food gel color (blue, green, yellow, pink). Add additional food coloring as needed to achieve the desired shade.
05 - Transfer each tinted meringue into separate piping bags fitted with a star, round, or shell tip. Pipe small designs onto prepared pans, spacing them 1 inch apart.
06 - Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until meringues are dry to the touch and can be easily removed from the parchment paper without sticking.
07 - Turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside for an additional 1 to 2 hours to cool completely.
08 - Transfer cooled meringues to a container and store at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week. Avoid refrigerating as moisture will alter their texture.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure egg whites are at room temperature to achieve the best volume while whipping.
02 - Use gel food coloring to avoid altering the consistency of the meringue.