Classic Meringue Pie Topping

1. In a mixing bowl -- preferably stainless steel or glass -- beat the egg whites and a pinch of salt on low speed of an electric mixer until they are frothy.
2. Add the cream of tartar and increase the mixer speed to medium; continue beating until the whites are fluffy, with large bubbles forming around the edges. 
3. With the mixer running, add the sugar, a few teaspoons at a time, ​or until all of the sugar is incorporated.

1. Continue beating until the peaks are firm, but still glossy. Add the vanilla.
2. Spoon the meringue onto the hot pie filling. If you are topping an unbaked pie filling, have it at room temperature before you top it with the meringue. Spread the meringue to the crust edge to seal the filling in. Fluff it with the back of a spoon to make decorative peaks across the pie.
3. Bake at 350 F (180 C/Gas 4) for about 12 minutes for 2 egg whites or about 15 minutes for 3 egg whites.

Common Problems and Solutions

Meringue is prone to problems. In some cases, it's the weather, and in others, it might be the baking temperature or the technique. Here are some typical problems and solutions

• Weeping and Beading - Beading can come from sugar or moisture. It can happen if the meringue is refrigerated while still warm, or if it was cooked for too long or at too high a heat.
• Shrinking - If it isn't spread all the way to the crust, the meringue might shrink on the filling. A cornstarch and water mixture is another way to provide stability to a meringue. Make a paste with 1/4 teaspoon of cornstarch and 2 teaspoons of water. Heat it in the microwave oven for 10 or 15 seconds, or until the paste is clear. Once peaks have formed on your meringue mixture, beat in the cornstarch mixture, adding 1 teaspoon at a time.