Marguerites are a delightful and nostalgic snack that brings back memories of my childhood. They are made with just a few simple ingredients, but when combined, they create a mouthwatering treat that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
To start, you'll need some saltine crackers. These crackers provide a crispy and salty base for the marguerites. I remember my grandmother always having a box of saltine crackers in her pantry, ready to be transformed into this delicious snack.
Next, you'll need some jelly or jam. The choice of flavor is entirely up to you, but I find that strawberry or raspberry jam works particularly well with the other ingredients. The sweetness and fruity flavors of the jam add a delightful contrast to the salty crackers.
Now, onto the meringue. Meringue is made by whisking egg whites and sugar until they become stiff and glossy. It adds a light and airy texture to the marguerites, making them even more irresistible. I love the process of making meringue, watching as the egg whites transform into a velvety cloud-like mixture. It's truly a magical experience.
After spreading a thin layer of jam onto each saltine cracker, it's time to spoon dollops of meringue on top. I like to use a piping bag to create neat and uniform mounds of meringue, but you can also use a spoon if you don't have one. The meringue acts as a sweet and fluffy blanket, enveloping the jam and creating a beautiful contrast of textures.
To finish off the marguerites, sprinkle some sugar over the meringue. This adds a touch of sweetness and also helps to create a golden and slightly caramelized crust when baked. Finally, top each marguerite with a sprinkle of chopped nuts. I prefer using walnuts or almonds, but you can use any nuts you like or even omit them if you have allergies or simply prefer not to include them.
Now, it's time to bake these little bundles of joy in the oven until the meringue is lightly golden and crisp. The aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake is simply heavenly. I remember eagerly waiting by the oven, impatiently counting down the minutes until they were ready to be devoured.
Once baked, let the marguerites cool for a few minutes before indulging in their deliciousness. The combination of the crunchy cracker, sweet and fruity jam, fluffy meringue, and the slight crunch of the nuts is absolutely divine. Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you back in time to a simpler and sweeter era.
Marguerites are made with saltine crackers, jelly or jam, meringue, sugar, and chopped nuts. These humble ingredients come together to create a treat that is both nostalgic and delicious. Whether enjoyed as a snack or served at a gathering, marguerites are sure to bring a smile to your face and a satisfied sigh to your lips.