Description
A stunning and simple Christmas dessert featuring a light, crisp meringue base and a soft marshmallow center. Decorated like a festive wreath with whipped cream, fresh berries, and mint, this Pavlova Christmas Wreath Cake makes a beautiful holiday centerpiece that’s as delicious as it looks.
Ingredients
For the Meringue
6 large egg whites (room temperature)
1 ½ cups (300 g) caster sugar
2 tsp cornstarch (cornflour)
1 tsp white vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream
1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream (cold)
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For Decoration
1 cup fresh strawberries, halved
½ cup raspberries
½ cup blueberries
1 kiwi, sliced
¼ cup pomegranate seeds
Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Optional: dusting of icing sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Draw a 10-inch (25 cm) circle and a smaller 6-inch (15 cm) inner circle to form a ring. Flip parchment so markings don’t touch the meringue.
Step 2: Beat the Egg Whites
Beat egg whites in a clean, dry bowl on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually
Increase speed to high and add sugar slowly, 1 tbsp at a time. Beat for 8–10 minutes until glossy and stiff.
Step 4: Add Stabilizers
Mix in cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla on low speed until just combined.
Step 5: Shape the Wreath
Spoon meringue onto the ring, shaping a wreath. Create peaks with a spoon for texture.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes, then turn off the oven. Leave the Pavlova inside for 1 hour to cool completely.
Step 7: Whip the Cream
Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Step 8: Assemble and Decorate
Spread whipped cream on cooled meringue. Add fruits, pomegranate seeds, and mint. Dust with icing sugar before serving.
Notes
Ensure all mixing tools are grease-free for best meringue results.
Assemble just before serving to maintain crispness.
Humidity can soften the Pavlova; store in a dry place.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian / New Zealand
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: Pavlova, Christmas dessert, meringue wreath, holiday baking, festive cake