My Grandma's Forgotten Cookies are super easy to mix up, spoon out on a cookie sheet, pop in the oven, and then FORGET about them!
I don't think there is an easier cookie to make than Grandma's Forgotten Cookies. Forgotten Cookies are exactly that—a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth meringue cookie that’s as easy as it is delicious. The best part? You “forget” them in the oven overnight, letting the gentle warmth create the perfect texture while you sleep!
This recipe from my Grandma's Recipe Box was clipped out of a newspaper. The original recipe was sent in by Mrs. Francis Kratzer from Geneseo, a small town in Kansas.
What Are Forgotten Cookies?
Forgotten Cookies are light and airy meringue-based treats that bake in a preheated oven that you turn off before going to bed. By morning, you’re greeted with crisp, slightly chewy cookies that dissolve into sweetness with each bite. They’re often studded with chocolate chips or nuts, making them a delightful combination of textures.
The Story Behind the Name
Why are they called Forgotten Cookies? Unlike most baked goods that require careful timing and temperature control, these cookies break all the rules. Instead of baking at a set time, you pop them into a preheated oven, turn it off, and—here’s the fun part—forget about them! Hours later, when you remember (or when morning rolls around), they’re ready to enjoy.
How to Make Forgotten Cookies
If you love simple, foolproof recipes, this one is for you. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients:
- 2 egg whites
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work great, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff.
- Add sugar, beating until the mixture is shiny and stiff peaks form.
- Stir in vanilla, nuts, and chocolate chips.
- Drop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Place the cookies in the oven, turn it off, and forget until oven is cool.
- When oven is cool, remove cookies from cookie sheet.
Why You’ll Love Forgotten Cookies
- No fuss, no stress – Perfect for busy bakers!
- Naturally gluten-free – Great for those with dietary restrictions.
- Light and airy – A dreamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Minimal ingredients – Made with pantry staples.
Tips for Perfect Forgotten Cookies
- Make sure there’s no grease or yolk in your egg whites—fat prevents the meringue from whipping up properly.
- Use a completely dry mixing bowl for the best results.
- Don’t peek! Opening the oven lets in cool air, which can affect how the cookies set.
A Cookie You Won’t Forget
Despite their name, these cookies are impossible to forget once you’ve had a taste. Whether you make them for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because, they’ll always be a delightful surprise waiting for you in the morning.
Grandma's Forgotten Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Stnad or Hand Mixer with wisk attachment
Ingredients
- 2 egg whites
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work great, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff.
- Add sugar, beating until the mixture is shiny and stiff peaks form.
- Stir in vanilla, nuts, and chocolate chips.
- Drop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Place the cookies in the oven, turn it off, and forget until oven is cool.
- When oven is cool, remove cookies from cookie sheet.
