Name: Polar Bear Meringue Kisses
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: PT-490056H17M44S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large egg whites, at room temperature; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 tsp cream of tartar or 1/2 tsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional); Edible candy eyes or mini chocolate chips (for eyes); Black decorating gel, melted chocolate, or mini chocolate chips (for noses); White candy melts, mini marshmallows, or piped meringue dots (for ears)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Polar Bear Meringue Kisses are my favorite whimsical treat to make during the winter season. Light, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth sweet, these little meringue cookies are shaped like adorable polar bear faces, making them just as fun to look at as they are to eat. They’re a charming addition to any holiday dessert table or cookie box.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together the delicate sweetness of meringue with playful design. It’s light, naturally gluten-free, and requires just a few ingredients. Plus, decorating them as polar bears turns baking into a fun and creative activity—perfect for holiday gatherings or baking with kids. Polar Bear Meringue Kisses

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Egg whites (room temperature)
Granulated sugar
Cream of tartar or a few drops of lemon juice (to stabilize the egg whites)
Vanilla extract (optional)
Edible candy eyes or mini chocolate chips (for eyes)
Black decorating gel, melted chocolate, or mini chocolate chips (for the nose)
White candy melts, mini marshmallows, or piped meringue dots (for ears)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 200°F (95°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I beat the egg whites with cream of tartar using a mixer on medium speed until foamy.
I gradually add sugar, one spoonful at a time, and continue to beat on high until stiff, glossy peaks form.
I add vanilla extract, if using, and give it one final mix.
I spoon the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
I pipe small mounds or swirls onto the baking sheet to form the polar bear faces.
I add the candy eyes and a chocolate chip or dot of black gel for the nose.
I attach small meringue dots, mini marshmallows, or candy melt pieces on the sides for ears.
I bake the meringues for about 1.5 to 2 hours until they are dry to the touch.
I turn off the oven and let them cool inside with the door slightly open to prevent cracking.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 meringue kisses, depending on size.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 1.5–2 hours
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: Around 3–3.5 hours

Variations

Sometimes I tint a portion of the meringue with food coloring for pastel polar bears or use different candies for fun expressions. I’ve also flavored the meringue with peppermint or almond extract for a festive twist. For a touch of shimmer, I dust them with edible glitter or powdered sugar after baking.

storage/reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. I keep them in a cool, dry place to avoid humidity, which can make them sticky. I don’t refrigerate or freeze them, as that causes them to lose their crisp texture. No reheating needed—they’re best eaten as-is. Polar Bear Meringue Kisses

FAQs

Why did my meringue turn grainy?

That usually happens if the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved. I make sure to add it slowly and beat well between each addition.

Can I make these without cream of tartar?

Yes. I use a few drops of lemon juice or white vinegar as a substitute—it helps stabilize the egg whites the same way.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

They should be dry and lift easily off the parchment. I let them cool in the oven with the door slightly open to prevent sudden temperature changes.

Can I pipe other shapes?

Absolutely. I’ve made snowmen, stars, and even animals like penguins. The meringue holds its shape beautifully.

What’s the best way to attach decorations?

I press candy eyes and noses into the meringue before baking. For post-bake additions, I use a dab of melted chocolate as edible glue.

Conclusion

Polar Bear Meringue Kisses are a delightful way to add some charm and sweetness to any winter or holiday celebration. Light, crisp, and incredibly cute, they’re a joy to make and even more fun to share. Whether I’m baking for a festive occasion or just looking for a light treat, these little bears always make me smile.