Factors Affecting Meringue Stability

Stability in a meringue is important. Stable meringue is firm yet flexible and resilient, so it can hold up to folding, piping, and baking. Often, the very things that increase stability decrease volume and tenderness. As always, the goal of the pastry chef is to balance opposite features. In this case, the goal is to balance stability with volume and tenderness.

Following is a discussion of the main factors that affect meringue stability.