Lemon-Meringue Shells

Description
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Ingredients

 * 2  	   	 egg whites
 * 1 	teaspoon 	lemon juice
 * 1/4 	teaspoon 	cream of tartar
 * 2/3 	cup 	sugar
 * 1/2 	cup 	lemon curd
 * 1 	cup 	blackberries, raspberries, or other berries

Directions
1  	In a large mixing bowl let egg whites stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Using a pencil, draw eight 3-inch circles on parchment paper or foil. Turn paper upside down on baking sheet; set aside.

2 	For meringue, add lemon juice and cream of tartar to egg whites. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form (tips curl). Add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed about 7 minutes or until very stiff peaks form (tips stand straight) and sugar is nearly dissolved.

3 	For shells, use the back of a large spoon to spread the meringue over circles on parchment paper, building up sides to form shells.

4 	Bake in a 300 degree F oven for 30 minutes. Turn off oven. Let meringues dry in oven, with door closed, for at least 1 hour. Remove from paper. If desired, store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week.

5 	Just before serving, spoon 1 tablespoon of the lemon curd into each meringue shell. Place a few berries on lemon curd. Makes 8 servings.