Ingredients

3 large egg whites1-1/2 teaspoons clear or regular vanilla extract1/4 teaspoon cream of tartarDash salt2/3 cup sugarGreen food coloringAssorted sprinklesStar nonpareilsConfectioners’ sugar, optional

Preparation

Place egg whites in a large bowl; let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 200°. Add vanilla, cream of tartar and salt to egg whites; beat on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high after each addition until sugar is dissolved. Continue beating until stiff glossy peaks form, about 7 minutes. Tint with green food coloring and mix thoroughly.

Cut a small hole in the tip of a pastry bag; insert a large #828 open star tip. Transfer meringue to bag. Pipe 2-in.-diameter tree shapes 2 in. apart onto parchment-lined baking sheets; top with sprinkles and a star nonpareil.

Bake until firm to the touch, about 3 hours. Turn off oven and open door all the way; leave meringues in oven until cool. Remove meringues from parchment. If desired, sprinkle lightly with confectioners’ sugar. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.