Delicate cookies and purchased ice cream produce a grown-up version of a playground favorite.
Recipe information
Yield
Serves 8 to 10
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Preheat oven to 225°F. Line 2 heavy large baking sheets with foil; butter and flour foil. Combine 1 cup pecans, 3 tablespoons sugar, cinnamon and salt in processor; grind finely. Add 1 1/2 ounces (about 1/4 cup) chocolate and 1 cup nuts and process just until pecans are coarsely chopped, using about 10 on/off turns.
Step 2
Using electric mixer, beat egg whites and 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar in medium bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1/2 cup brown sugar, beating until mixture is very stiff, about 4 minutes. Fold in nut mixture and instant coffee (crystals will not dissolve).
Step 3
Drop batter by scant tablespoonfuls onto prepared sheets, spacing evenly. Lightly press pecan half onto each cookie. Bake until meringues are dry, about 55 minutes. Cool completely on sheets.
Step 4
Place 1 tablespoon ice cream on bottom side of 1 meringue. Gently press bottom side of another meringue onto ice cream. Place on baking sheet; freeze. Repeat with remaining meringues and ice cream. Freeze until firm, about 1 hour.
Step 5
Melt 3 ounces chocolate in top on double boiler set over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over sandwiches. Cover and freeze. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Keep frozen.)
