1. Preheat your oven to 200-225°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Ensure all equipment and utensils are completely clean and grease-free.
3. Separate fresh, room-temperature egg whites from the yolks, making sure no yolk is mixed in.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy.
5. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
6. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed.
7. Continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form and the sugar is fully dissolved.
8. Mix in vanilla extract or other desired flavorings like peppermint.
9. If using food coloring, gently fold it into the meringue.
10. Transfer the meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
11. Pipe tree shapes or swirls onto the prepared baking sheet.
12. Add festive decorations like sprinkles before baking, if desired.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5-2 hours, or until the meringues are dry and crisp.
14. Turn off the oven and leave the cookies inside to cool completely.
15. Once cooled, carefully remove the meringue cookies from the parchment paper.
16. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a snow-like effect before serving.
17. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 5-7 days.
18. Optional: Sandwich two cookies together with cream cheese frosting for extra flavor.