Ghost Meringues that Float into Your Halloween Fun

Hi I'm Emma

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on October 22, 2025

The kitchen filled with a tantalizing aroma, and I caught myself smiling as I sifted through the ingredients for today’s Halloween festivities. It’s that magical time of year again, where cobwebs and cauldrons transform our homes into whimsical realms. One dessert that never fails to surprise and delight is the Ghost Meringues. Their ethereal lightness and spooky shapes make them a fun treat that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. The best part? These easy-to-make meringues are not only a real crowd-pleaser, but they also serve as a fantastic centerpiece for your Halloween table. So grab your apron and prepare to whip up these enchanting sweets that are sure to steal the show this spooky season. What surprises will you conjure up with your own ghostly creations?

Why Make Ghost Meringues for Halloween?

Ethereal Delight: These Ghost Meringues are light as air, making them a whimsical treat that captures the spirit of Halloween.

Kid-Friendly Fun: Easy to shape and decorate, they’re perfect for involving little ones in the kitchen, creating lasting memories together.

Impressive Centerpiece: With their playful ghostly designs, these meringues will not only taste amazing but will also steal the spotlight on your dessert table.

Versatile Treats: Use them as a topping for cakes or pair with festive drinks to elevate any Halloween gathering.

Quick Prep Time: Whip them up in no time, leaving you with more opportunities to enjoy the spooky season with friends and family! For more sweet ideas, check out our collection of festive Halloween dessert recipes.

Ghost Meringue Ingredients

For the Meringues

Egg Whites – Use room temperature eggs to ensure better volume and stability while whipping.
Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetening and providing structure; opt for superfine sugar for smoother meringue.
Cream of Tartar – Helps stabilize the whipped egg whites; can be substituted with lemon juice in a pinch.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely flavor; feel free to experiment with almond extract for a different twist.
Powdered Sugar – For a touch of extra sweetness and to finish off the meringues; ensure it’s sifted to avoid lumps.

For Decoration

Chocolate Chips – Perfect for creating spooky eyes; melt them for a quick drizzle or use as is.
Green Food Coloring – A tiny bit can be added to create a ghostly glow; try using natural alternatives for a health-conscious option.

These Ghost Meringues are not only a decorative delight but also a kid-friendly fun project that’s sure to make your Halloween gatherings even sweeter!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Meringues

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 225°F (107°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating a smooth surface for your ghost meringues. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring that your meringues maintain their whimsical shapes. Gather your mixing bowls, electric mixer, and a spatula to set up your workspace.

Step 2: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean bowl, add room temperature egg whites. Using your electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form, typically about 3-4 minutes. As the whites begin to froth, gradually add cream of tartar to stabilize them. Look for a glossy texture forming, signaling that you’re on the right track for making airy meringues.

Step 3: Gradually Add Sugar
Once you see soft peaks, slowly sprinkle in the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Continue mixing on high speed for another 3-4 minutes until the mixture is thick and holds stiff peaks. The meringue should appear shiny and be able to hold its shape when lifted. This step is essential for achieving the perfect, light flavor typical of Ghost Meringues.

Step 4: Flavor and Finish
Gently fold in the vanilla extract using your spatula, ensuring it is well incorporated without deflating the meringue. To enhance the sweet, delicate flavor of your Ghost Meringues, sift in the powdered sugar. Carefully mix until no lumps remain, creating a smooth and airy batter that’s ready for shaping into ghosts.

Step 5: Shape the Meringues
Transfer your meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe small dollops onto the prepared baking sheet, creating ghost shapes—aim for a swirl to give it character. Leave some space between each dollop, as they will puff up while baking. Your Ghost Meringues should begin to take form and evoke a playful Halloween spirit.

Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the meringues for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Don’t be alarmed if they take time; they should become dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment. Avoid opening the oven door too soon, as this can cause them to collapse. Your Ghost Meringues should be pale and perfectly formed by the end of baking.

Step 7: Cool and Decorate
After baking, turn off the oven and let the Ghost Meringues cool inside for about an hour. This gentle cooldown helps prevent cracking. Once they are completely cool, decorate with melted chocolate chips for spooky eyes. A simple drizzle adds to their charm, making your treats a delightful centerpiece for Halloween celebrations.

Variations & Substitutions for Ghost Meringues

Explore the magic of customization with these playful twists on all-time favorite Ghost Meringues!

Flavor Boost:
Almond Extract: Swap out vanilla for almond extract for a nutty flavor that pairs delightfully with the sweetness.
Color Pop:
Natural Dyes: Use beet juice for a vibrant red hue or spirulina for a subtle green glow, making your treats extra festive.
Chocolate Swizzle:
Dark Chocolate Chips: Instead of semi-sweet, use dark chocolate chips for a richer contrast against the sweet meringue base.
Halloween Spice:
Pumpkin Spice: Add a hint of pumpkin pie spice to the meringue mix for an autumnal kick that complements the Halloween season beautifully.
Texture Twist:
Cocoa Powder: Fold in a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa for chocolate-flavored Ghost Meringues that bring an extra flavor punch.
Fruity Topping:
Freeze-Dried Fruit Dust: Sprinkle freeze-dried raspberry powder on top for a tart sweetness that contrasts with the sugary meringue.
Chocoholic Treat:
Chocodile Ghosts: Dip your baked meringues in melted chocolate before adding eyes for an even more indulgent version.
Spooky Faces:
Candy Eyes: Skip the chocolate for cream-colored candy eyes for a whimsical look that kids will adore, making this not just a dessert but a fun activity too!

Don’t hesitate to explore other variations like our spooky punch ideas or more festive Halloween dessert recipes to keep your gatherings even more enchanting!

What to Serve with Ghost Meringues?

Indulge in the playful spirit of Halloween with a delightful spread that complements these airy Ghost Meringues.

Pumpkin Spice Lattes: The warm, aromatic flavors of pumpkin spice create a cozy pairing that captures the essence of fall festivities.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip meringues into a rich chocolate fondue for an exciting textural contrast and a decadent treat that everyone will adore.
Halloween Punch: A bubbly fruit punch adds a fun fizz to your dessert table, making it a hit at any gathering. The vibrant colors will beautifully contrast with the ghostly white meringues.
Caramel Apple Slices: Crunchy, sweet apple slices drizzled with warm caramel bring a crispness that pairs seamlessly with the lightness of the meringues, offering a balance of flavors.
Gummy Worms: For a playful twist, scatter gummy worms around your dessert platter. Their fun and colorful appearance will appeal to kids and add humor to your spooky theme.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced cider delivers a comforting complement, enhancing the sweetness of the meringues with its fruity and cozy notes.
Creepy Cupcake Decor: Serve cupcakes dressed as monsters alongside your Ghost Meringues, providing an eye-catching assortment perfect for Halloween parties.
Hazelnut Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, this drink adds richness and warmth beside the airy meringues, making every bite and sip a heavenly combination.
Coconut Macaroons: The chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor meld beautifully with meringues, offering a delightful contrast that highlights the best of Halloween sweets.

Storage Tips for Ghost Meringues

Room Temperature: Store the Ghost Meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful crispiness and airy texture.

Fridge: Avoid refrigerating meringues, as moisture can make them chewy rather than light and crispy; room temperature is best for these festive treats.

Freezer: If you want to keep your Ghost Meringues longer, freeze them in an airtight container for up to a month. Allow them to thaw in the container to keep their texture intact.

Reheating: There’s no need for reheating meringues; simply enjoy them as they are, showcasing their spooky charm directly from storage!

Make Ahead Options

These Ghost Meringues are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meringue mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Simply whip up your meringue and transfer it to a piping bag, sealing it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, just pipe the shapes onto your baking sheet and proceed with the baking directions. To maintain their airy texture, avoid letting them sit out once cooled; store the finished meringues in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming sticky. Enjoy the time-saving benefits that allow you to impress your guests with this delightful Halloween treat!

Expert Tips for Ghost Meringues

Egg White Temperature: Ensure egg whites are room temperature for optimal volume; cold egg whites won’t whip up as nicely.
Slow Sugar Addition: Add granulated sugar gradually for strong peaks; rushing this step can lead to a runny meringue.
Piping Technique: Use a large round piping tip for ghost shapes while leaving space in between; they will expand slightly during baking.
Baking Patience: Maintain a consistent oven temperature and avoid opening the door early to prevent collapsing; aim for a baking time of 1.5 to 2 hours.
Cooling Method: Allow the meringues to cool in the oven to avoid cracking; this gentle cooldown is key for a perfect finish.
Decoration: Use melted chocolate chips for the eyes; a simple drizzle can give your Ghost Meringues an eerie yet adorable touch.

Ghost Meringues Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best egg whites for meringues?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh, room temperature egg whites. This allows for maximum volume when whipping. If you find any yolk in the whites, discard that batch, as even a tiny bit of fat can hinder the whipping process.

What’s the best way to store Ghost Meringues?
I recommend storing your Ghost Meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll maintain their delightful crispiness and airy texture this way. Avoid refrigerating them, as moisture can make them chewy instead of light and crunchy.

Can I freeze Ghost Meringues, and how?
Very! If you’d like to store them for a longer period, you can freeze Ghost Meringues in an airtight container for up to a month. Make sure they are cooled completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the container so they maintain their original texture.

What should I do if my meringue isn’t forming stiff peaks?
Don’t worry! If your meringue isn’t reaching stiff peaks, ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease. Also, slowly add the sugar while they’re whipping to stabilize the egg whites better. If it’s still not working, try starting with fresh egg whites, as even a tiny amount of yolk can hinder the process.

Are there any allergy considerations for Ghost Meringues?
Certainly! Ghost Meringues primarily contain egg whites and sugar. If someone has an egg allergy, it’s best to avoid them altogether. Additionally, be cautious with chocolate chips for decoration, as some may contain allergens like milk or nuts, so always check labels if serving to guests with known allergies.

How can I make my meringues even more festive?
The more the merrier! You can add different colors of food coloring to the meringue mix for a Halloween effect, or pipe them into various shapes like pumpkins or witches. Top with seasonal sprinkles or edible glitter to create a spooky flair, perfect for any Halloween gathering!