Strawberries with Walnut Puffs

WaterMelon's Note:

Found this on the internet - existentialmoo.com. Sounds really yummy. Something special enough to serve when you've got company or dinner party.

• Total Time: 45 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 8

• 3 large egg whites
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 10 saltine crackers (2 in. square)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• 6 cups strawberries , rinsed,hulled,and sliced
• 1 cup whipping cream , softly whipped
• ¼ cup sugar , extra (to taste)

Directions:

1. Beat whites and cream of tartar with a mixer on high speed until whites are foamy in a large bowl.
2. (make sure bowl is scrupulously clean, no grease) Mix 1 cup sugar, cinnamon, and baking powder.
3. Beating on high speed, gradually add sugar mixture to whites.
4. Continue beating until whites hold stiff, glossy peaks.
5. Crush crackers into pieces about 1/4 inch across.
6. Fold crackers and walnuts gently into whites.
7. Line 2 baking sheets, 12 by 15 inches each, with cooking parchment (or lightly oil nonstick baking sheets).
8. Spoon meringue mixture in 8 equal mounds about 3 1/2 inches wide and well separated.
9. Bake in a 300° oven until puffs are lightly browned, about 30 minutes.
10. Let cool on pan about 10 minutes.
11. With a spatula, transfer to racks to cool.
12. If making ahead, package walnut puffs airtight and hold at room temperature up to 1 day.
13. Mix strawberries and cream with sugar to taste and spoon onto the walnut puffs before serving.