Jump to Recipe Print RecipeA flurry of peppermint and pine fills the air, and suddenly, I find myself dreaming of a dessert that dazzles as much as the twinkling Christmas lights. Enter my Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath, the perfect centerpiece for your festive gatherings. This stunning meringue creation not only dazzles with its enchanting colors, but it also delivers an airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible. Even better, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it the ideal choice for those busy holiday planning days. Customize it with your favorite seasonal fruits, and you’ll impress everyone with minimal effort. Who else is excited to create something unforgettable this holiday season? Why Is This Wreath a Showstopper? Visual Wow Factor: This Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath is not only a dessert but a stunning centerpiece that will grab everyone’s attention at your gathering. Effortless Elegance: With just a few simple steps, you can create a masterpiece that looks complex but is incredibly easy to assemble. Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to mix and match your favorite seasonal fruits, from berries to tropical delights, giving a fresh twist every time! Light and Airy Texture: The combination of crisp meringue and soft, creamy toppings creates a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for holiday parties, this dessert is sure to impress both friends and family, making any celebration extra special. If you want to explore more festive options, check out our guide on creating incredible holiday desserts that steal the show! Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Ingredients For the Meringue Extra-large egg whites – These provide the essential structure and stability for your meringue; opt for pasteurized for safe eating. Icing sugar (powdered sugar) – This adds sweetness and helps achieve a smooth, glossy finish, so remember to sift it for the best results. Cornstarch – It stabilizes the meringue and gives that coveted marshmallow-like center; you can swap it out for arrowroot powder if desired. Vanilla extract – A splash of pure vanilla elevates the flavor profile, making every bite delightful. For the Topping Heavy cream (whipping cream) – This is essential for a rich, creamy topping; coconut cream makes a fantastic dairy-free alternative. Fresh fruit (e.g., berries, mango, pomegranate) – Vibrant and colorful, these fruits enhance both flavor and presentation; seasonal varieties add a festive touch. Fresh mint – A simple yet elegant garnish that adds a pop of color and a refreshing flavor note. Craft your Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath with these delightful ingredients, and watch as it becomes the showstopper of your holiday gatherings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 90°C (195°F). While it’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for your meringues. This will ensure each meringue has a lovely, crisp base when they bake, helping to create the stunning Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath. Step 2: Prepare Meringue In a stand mixer, add your extra-large egg whites and start whipping at medium speed. Gradually incorporate the sifted icing sugar into the egg whites until stiff peaks form, which should take about 8 minutes. Once your mixture is glossy and holds its shape, gently mix in the cornstarch and vanilla extract until fully combined, setting the stage for your meringue. Step 3: Shape Meringues With a piping bag fitted with a round tip or using a spoon, create mounds of meringue approximately 5cm wide on the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to create small indentations in the center of each mound, which will later cradle the cream and fruits. This unique shape is essential for your Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath’s final presentation. Step 4: Bake Carefully place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the meringues for about 60 minutes. After this time, turn off the oven but leave the meringues inside for an additional 2 hours to cool completely. This slow cooling process helps achieve that delightful crisp exterior and soft center of the pavlova. Step 5: Assemble Wreath Once the meringues have cooled, arrange them in a circular wreath shape on a serving platter. Tweak the placement until you’re happy with the shape and spacing, as this stunning Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath will serve as the star of your dessert table. Step 6: Whip Cream In a clean mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, icing sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract together. Whip until medium-stiff peaks form, ensuring it holds its shape without becoming overly thick. This creamy mixture will be the luscious topping for your meringue nests, elevating the visual appeal of your pavlova. Step 7: Top with Fruit Spoon the whipped cream into the indentations of each meringue nest. Then, decorate your Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath with vibrant seasonal fruits of your choice, such as berries, mangoes, or pomegranate seeds. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance, signaling that your festive dessert is ready to impress! Expert Tips for Your Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Clean Equipment: Ensure all mixing bowls and utensils are free of grease, as even a tiny amount can prevent egg whites from whipping to their full volume. Sifting Sugar: Always sift your icing sugar before adding it to the egg whites. This helps prevent lumps and creates a smoother meringue for your Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath. Avoid Humidity: Make this dessert on a dry day; humidity can affect the texture of your meringue, making it sticky instead of crisp. Storage Advice: Keep meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Add whipped cream and fruit only right before serving for the best texture. Experiment with Toppings: Try different seasonal fruits or even a splash of citrus to enhance the flavors and keep your Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath exciting and fresh! What to Serve with Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath The festive vibes are all around, and it’s time to elevate your holiday meal with delightful accompaniments. Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, aromatic drink adds a cozy touch, perfectly complementing the sweet and airy meringue of the pavlova. Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced warmth is a lovely contrast to the lightness of the pavlova, making each bite a blend of holiday flavors. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop beside your pavlova creates an indulgent experience that balances the crispness with velvety creaminess. Chocolate Fondue: Dipping fresh fruits into warm chocolate creates a delightful experience that perfectly enhances the vibrant fruits on your wreath. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness from this sauce pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the meringue, adding depth and richness to your dessert table. Winter Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits can refresh the palate between servings, ensuring the festive flavors linger. Nutty Biscotti: This crunchy treat brings an additional texture alongside the soft pavlova, making it enjoyable at every holiday gathering. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: The caramelized sweetness of the cake serves as a lovely companion to the light pavlova, offering a richer dessert experience. How to Store and Freeze Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Room Temperature: Store baked meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their crisp texture. Fridge: If you’ve assembled the wreath, it’s best to keep it in the fridge for no more than 1 day; add cream and fruit just before serving to prevent sogginess. Freezer: Meringues can be frozen individually in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheating: Avoid reheating meringues; they are best enjoyed fresh. For assembled wreaths, consume immediately for the best experience! Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Variations Customize your festive Pavlova Wreath to suit your tastes and make it even more delightful! Seasonal Fruits: Swap out the fruits based on what’s in season! Think stewed plums, succulent peaches, or zesty citrus segments for a refreshing twist. Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a deliciously rich, dairy-free option that still maintains creaminess. Spiced Topping: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to your whipped cream for that cozy holiday flavor that warms the heart. This festive touch brings an inviting aroma that will enchant your guests. Mini Wreaths: Create individual pavlova nests instead of one large wreath for a fun twist! Everyone gets their own personalized dessert, perfect for holiday parties. Colorful Icing: Use colored icing or edible glitter for a visually striking touch, perfect to match your holiday decor or themed gatherings! Tropical Vibes: Mix in tropical fruits like pineapple or kiwi for a lively, summery take that offers a colorful contrast to the snow-themed holidays. Nuts and Crunch: Incorporate crushed nuts such as pistachios or almonds for an added crunch that elevates the texture and adds depth to your dessert. Chili Heat: For a daring kick, garnish with finely chopped chili or jalapeños on top of your fruit for a surprising flavor explosion that balances sweetness with spice. Feeling inspired? Dive into your kitchen and let your creativity shine, or consider checking out our guide on transforming classic desserts for more delightful twists! Make Ahead Options This Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday hustle! You can bake the meringues up to two days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crisp texture. Meanwhile, you can whip the heavy cream and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving; just be sure to give it a quick re-whip for fluffiness. As for the fresh fruit, it’s best to prepare it just before topping the wreath to prevent any softening. When you’re ready to impress your guests, simply assemble the wreath with whipped cream and fresh fruit, and enjoy your beautiful, festive dessert with minimal effort! Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select egg whites for my meringue? Absolutely! When choosing egg whites, opt for extra-large, fresh, and preferably pasteurized ones. Fresh egg whites whip up to a better volume, creating a fluffier meringue. Make sure there are no traces of yolk, as even a tiny bit of fat can hinder the whipping process. How should I store my leftover meringues? To keep your baked meringues perfect, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This way, you maintain their crispy texture. Avoid refrigeration, as it can introduce moisture and make them chewy. Can I freeze meringues for later use? Yes! Meringues freeze very well. To do this, place individual meringues in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to serve, simply let them thaw at room temperature for the best eating experience. What if my meringue doesn’t whip up stiff enough? No worries! If your meringue isn’t forming stiff peaks, check if your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from any grease. Also, ensure you’re using the right speed; start at medium and increase as your mixture thickens. If you’ve added sugar too quickly, it might take longer to achieve peak stability. Are there any dietary considerations for the Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath? Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for many diets. However, if you’re concerned about allergies, keep in mind that it contains egg whites and heavy cream. For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream. Always check with your guests about potential allergies before serving. How do I prevent my meringue from becoming sticky in humid weather? Humidity can be tricky for meringue-making! To avoid this, try making your Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath on a dry day. If you must bake in humid conditions, ensure the egg whites are whipped to slightly stiffer peaks and consider using a little more cornstarch to help stabilize the meringue. Delightful Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath for Festive Gatherings No ratings yet This Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath is a stunning centerpiece for any festive gathering, delivering an airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that's simply irresistible. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meringue6 large Egg whites Use pasteurized for safe eating.300 grams Icing sugar Sifted.2 tablespoons Cornstarch Can substitute with arrowroot powder.1 teaspoon Vanilla extractFor the Topping500 ml Heavy cream Whipping cream; coconut cream for dairy-free.300 grams Fresh fruit Berries, mango, pomegranate, or seasonal varieties.2 sprigs Fresh mint For garnish. Equipment Stand mixerpiping bagBaking SheetsParchment Paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 90°C (195°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.In a stand mixer, whip the egg whites at medium speed and gradually add the sifted icing sugar until stiff peaks form, about 8 minutes. Mix in cornstarch and vanilla extract.Create mounds of meringue on the baking sheets, each about 5cm wide, with indentations in the center.Bake the meringues for about 60 minutes. Turn off the oven and leave them inside for an additional 2 hours to cool completely.Arrange cooled meringues in a circular wreath shape on a serving platter.In a clean mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until medium-stiff peaks form.Spoon whipped cream into the meringues and decorate with fresh fruits and mint. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore baked meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Add whipped cream and fruit just before serving for the best texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
