Chocolate Meringue Stars

Submitted By: Kathleen Yoder

Ingredients

• 3 egg whites
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup baking cocoa
• Glaze:
• 3 squares (1 ounce each) semi-sweet chocolate
• 1 tablespoon shortening

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and vanilla until soft peaks form. Gradually add

sugar, 2 tablespoons at a time, beating until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in cocoa. Place in a pastry bag with a large open star tip. Line baking sheets with foil and coat with nonstick cooking spray. Pipe stars, about 11/4-inch diameter, onto foil or drop by rounded teaspoons. Bake at 300º for 30 to 35 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from foil; cool on wire racks.
In a microwave or double boiler, melt chocolate and shortening; stir until smooth. Dip cookies halfway into glaze; place on waxed paper to harden.