Spumini with Hazelnuts and Chocolate Chips Meringues

Here is the recipe for preparing delicious Spumini with hazelnuts and chocolate chips, Italian meringues enriched to turn them into even more gourmet treats.

Ingredients

• 2 egg whites
• 120 g granulated sugar
• 1 packet of vanillin or a teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 100 g toasted hazelnuts, coarsely chopped
• 50 g chocolate chips
• A pinch of salt

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 100 °C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a large, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they become frothy and start to form soft peaks.
3. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat, then incorporate the vanillin or vanilla extract, until you obtain a glossy and stiff meringue that forms stable peaks.
4. Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped hazelnuts and chocolate chips, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
5. Use two spoons or a piping bag to portion the batter onto the tray, forming small mounds about 3-4 cm in diameter. Leave some space between each spumino, as they may expand slightly during baking.
6. Bake the spumini and let them cook for about 1 hour and 30 minutes or until they have set and dried completely, without taking on too much color.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.

Fun Facts

Spumini are a variation of classic meringues and, with the addition of hazelnuts and chocolate chips, become a rich and tempting treat, perfect paired with coffee or as a light yet delicious end to a meal. Hazelnuts are a typical ingredient in Piedmontese pastry and give preparations a distinctive flavor.

Remember that, being meringues, humidity is their main enemy; it is therefore important to store them in an airtight container after they have cooled completely.