Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Preheat oven to 225°F (110°C).
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Beat Egg Whites
In a clean, grease-free mixing bowl, beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy.
Add Cream of Tartar & Sugar
Add cream of tartar and continue beating.
Slowly add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks (about 7–9 minutes).
Flavor & Color
Beat in vanilla extract and any optional food coloring.
Pipe or Spoon Meringues
Transfer mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip (or use a spoon) and pipe small mounds onto the prepared baking sheets.
Bake
Bake for 1 hour without opening the oven.
Turn off the oven, leave the door closed, and let the cookies cool completely inside for 1 more hour.
Serve
Once cool and crisp, enjoy immediately or store as directed below.