Chocolate Meringue Stars

Ingredients

• 3 egg whites
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup baking cocoa
• GLAZE
• 3 (1 ounce) squares semisweet chocolate
• 1 tablespoon shortening

Directions

In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and vanilla until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, about 2 tablespoons at a time, beating until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in cocoa.

Place in a pastry bag with a large open star tip (#8b). Line baking sheets with ungreased parchment paper. Pipe stars, about 1-1/4-in. Diameter, onto foil, or drop by rounded teaspoonfuls.

Bake at 300 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from foil; cool on wire racks.

In a microwave or double boiler, melt chocolate and shortening; stir until smooth. Dip the cookies halfway into glaze; place on waxed paper to harden.