Desserts: Meringue Cookies (2 kinds)

Meringue Kisses
3 egg whites
1 t vanilla
1/4 t cream of tartar
1/4 t peppermint extract (opt)
Dash salt
1 cup sugar
3 dozen milk chocolate candy kisses
In small mixer bowl, combine egg whites through salt;  beat to soft peaks.  Very gradually add sugar, beating till very stiff peaks form.  Meringue will be glossy.  Drop from tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheet, about 1 1/2" apart.  Press on candy kiss into each meringue, bring meringue up and over sides of candies with knife or narrow spatula, swirling top.  Sprinkle with green sugar crystals.  Bake 275 F for 30 mins, immediately remove from baking sheet and cool.  Makes about 3 dozen.

Nitey-Nite Cookies
2 egg whites
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 cup chopped nuts
1 cup chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350 F.  Beat egg whites until fluffy.  Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff.  Stir in nuts and chips.  Drop by teaspoonfuls onto foil covered cookie sheets.  Place in oven, close door and turn oven off. Leave cookies in oven overnight.  Do not open door!  Go to bed.