Meringue Turtle Doves

Line cookie sheet with brown paper.

In a small mixer bowl, beat egg whites, vanilla and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar.

Beat until stiff peaks form.

Put mixture in decorating bag with 1/2-inch round tip, filling bag half full. Beginning at head end, squeeze bag gently, moving tip clockwise direction to form a question mark.

For lower body, continue squeezing as you move tip about 2 1/2-inches to right, back left, then right, releasing pressure as you pull up tip.

Place mini chocolate pieces on head for eye and beak.

Bake in a 300° oven about 15 minutes.

Turn off oven and let cookies dry in oven with the door closed about 30 minutes.

Makes about 24.