Name: Delicious Pavlova Wreath: A Sweet Holiday Showstopper
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 7 large egg whites (Ensure they are room temperature for best results.); 2 cups C&H® Granulated Sugar (Superfine sugar can be used for a smoother finish.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Almond extract can be used as a substitute.); 2 tbsp cornstarch (Stabilizes the meringue; no direct substitutes available.); 2 tsp distilled white vinegar (Lemon juice is a good alternative.); 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (Coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free option.); 1/2 cup C&H® Confectioners Sugar (Ensures a smooth consistency.); 1 tsp almond extract (Vanilla extract can serve as a substitute.); 1 cup fresh raspberries (Feel free to use any berries you prefer.); 1/2 cup pomegranate arils (Other fruits like kiwi can be alternatives.); mint leaves (Enriches the dessert with fresh aroma.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the holiday season approaches, the kitchen fills with a scent of nostalgia and cheer. Picture a showstopper dessert that captures the magic of Christmas gatherings: the Pavlova Wreath. This delightful meringue creation, with its crisp exterior and soft, marshmallow-like center, becomes even more enchanting when adorned with luscious almond cream and ribbons of fresh fruit. Not only does this Pavlova Wreath make for a stunning centerpiece, but it also offers a light, airy indulgence that won’t leave you feeling weighed down after your festive feasting. With quick prep and an undeniable wow factor, it’s bound to impress your loved ones. Are you ready to create a dessert that brings both joy and elegance to your holiday table?

Why is the Pavlova Wreath a must-try?

Visual Appeal: The Pavlova Wreath is an absolute showstopper, making it a stunning centerpiece for your holiday gatherings.

Light and Airy: Its delicate meringue shell provides a satisfyingly crunchy contrast to the fluffy marshmallow center.

Quick to Prepare: Even with its impressive look, this dessert is surprisingly easy to make, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time celebrating with family.

Versatile Toppings: Customize with your favorite fruits, whether it be berries, pomegranate arils, or even tropical options! For more festive ideas, explore our suggestions on how to make this dessert truly your own.

Crowd-Pleaser: Its delicious combination of textures and flavors guarantees a dessert that everyone will love, making it a perfect holiday treat.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the meringue in advance, allowing you to assemble this delightful Pavlova Wreath just before serving. Enjoy every bite without the last-minute stress!

Pavlova Wreath Ingredients

• Perfect for a festive treat!

For the Meringue

7 large egg whites – Ensure they are room temperature for best results.
2 cups C&H® Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the meringue and contributes to its texture; superfine sugar can be used for a smoother finish.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the meringue; almond extract can be used as an intriguing substitute.
2 tbsp cornstarch – Stabilizes the meringue and enhances texture; no direct substitutes are available.
2 tsp distilled white vinegar – Helps stabilize the egg whites; lemon juice is a great alternative.

For the Almond Cream

1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream – Creates the rich and luscious almond cream; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free option.
1/2 cup C&H® Confectioners Sugar – Sweetens the almond cream and ensures a smooth consistency.
1 tsp almond extract – Imparts a delightful almond flavor; vanilla extract can serve as a substitute.

For the Toppings

1 cup fresh raspberries – Adds vibrant color and a tart bite; feel free to use any berries you prefer.
1/2 cup pomegranate arils – Provides a burst of flavor and appealing garnish; other fruits like kiwi can be alternatives.
Mint leaves – Enriches the dessert with fresh aroma and visual appeal.

Dive into creating this gorgeous Pavlova Wreath and enjoy the sweet, festive delight it brings to your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Pavlova Wreath

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a 9-inch circle and a 6-inch circle as guides for the meringue. This will help you create a perfect wreath shape filled with delightful almond cream and fruits when the Pavlova Wreath is ready.

Step 2: Whip Egg Whites
In a stand mixer with a clean, dry bowl, whisk 7 large egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add 2 cups of C&H® granulated sugar, a tablespoon at a time, increasing the speed to high. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, taking about 5-8 minutes, resulting in a glossy meringue.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Once the meringue has reached stiff peaks, gently fold in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 2 teaspoons of distilled white vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a spatula to ensure no lumps remain, combining until all ingredients are fully incorporated. This step is crucial for achieving the ideal texture in your Christmas Pavlova Wreath.

Step 4: Pipe Meringue
Transfer the meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe 9-10 mounds onto the outlined circles on the parchment paper, creating peaks for a rustic look. Use a spoon to form indentations in the center of each mound to hold the almond cream and fruits later, ensuring they maintain their shape during baking.

Step 5: Bake
Place the meringue in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meringue is dry and crisp. After baking, turn off the oven and let the meringues cool inside for at least one hour. This controlled cooling helps prevent cracks, ensuring your Pavlova Wreath looks stunning.

Step 6: Prepare Almond Cream
While the meringue is cooling, prepare the almond cream. In a clean mixing bowl, whip 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream along with 1/2 cup of C&H® confectioners sugar and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Whisk until stiff peaks form, creating a rich and velvety almond cream. Refrigerate the almond cream until you’re ready to assemble the wreath.

Step 7: Assemble the Wreath
Once the meringue has cooled completely, carefully spread the almond cream over the meringue layers, filling the center and over the tops of the pavlova. Top generously with 1 cup of fresh raspberries, sprinkle 1/2 cup of pomegranate arils, and garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color. Dust lightly with confectioners’ sugar for an extra festive touch before serving.

What to Serve with Christmas Pavlova Wreath

The festive season calls for a symphony of flavors! Enhance your Christmas feast with delightful pairings that will complement your stunning Pavlova Wreath.

Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, this warm beverage adds a cozy touch, enhancing the sweetness of the Pavlova. Perfect for chilly nights!
Spiced Chai Latte: This comforting drink blends spices like cinnamon and cardamom, which beautifully contrast with the light meringue and fruity toppings.
Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced sweetness harmonizes well with the lightness of the Pavlova, making for a delightful combination of flavors on your dessert platter.
Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits like citrus and berries not only adds a refreshing burst but enhances the overall presentation next to the Pavlova Wreath.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside for a classic pairing; its creaminess complements the airy texture of the Pavlova, creating a heavenly dessert experience.
Coffee: A rich brew or even a flavored blend, like hazelnut or vanilla, balances the sweetness of the dessert, making it a delightful finish to your holiday meal.
Almond Biscotti: These crunchy delights provide an enjoyable contrast to the soft Pavlova, perfect for dipping into your warm beverages or enjoying on their own.

Embrace these delicious ideas and create a memorable holiday spread that celebrates joy and togetherness!

Helpful Tricks for Pavlova Wreath

Egg Whites Matter: Make sure your egg whites are free from any yolk for optimal whipping. A tiny bit of yolk can prevent them from reaching stiff peaks.
Grease-Free Tools: Use a clean, dry bowl and utensils when whipping the egg whites. Any grease can hinder their ability to become fluffy and stable.
The Oven Equation: Resist the temptation to open the oven door while baking. This can release heat and cause your Pavlova Wreath to collapse, ruining that beautiful meringue structure.
Cooling Process: Allow the meringue to cool completely in the oven after baking. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracks and ensures a delightful texture.
Make-ahead Magic: You can bake the meringues in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Assemble your Pavlova Wreath just before serving for that fresh, festive touch!

How to Store and Freeze Pavlova Wreath

Room Temperature: Store unassembled meringue in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep it in a cool, dry area to maintain its crispness.

Fridge: If topped with almond cream and fruits, enjoy the Pavlova Wreath fresh. Refrigerate for up to 4 hours, but note it may lose some crispness.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for assembled Pavlova Wreath as it can lead to texture loss. However, you can freeze just the meringue for up to 1 month.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat. Simply assemble your Pavlova Wreath just before serving for the best flavor and presentation.

Make Ahead Options

Prepare the Christmas Pavlova Wreath in advance to streamline your holiday festivities! You can bake the meringue up to 2 days ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispness. The almond cream can be whipped and refrigerated for up to 24 hours prior to assembly. When ready to serve, simply spread the chilled almond cream over the cooled meringue, top with fresh raspberries and pomegranate arils, and dust lightly with confectioners’ sugar. This makes it easy to impress your guests with a stunning dessert while saving valuable time on busy holiday days!

Pavlova Wreath Variations to Delight

Feel free to get creative with your Pavlova Wreath and make it your own, turning this classic holiday dessert into a unique masterpiece.

Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a deliciously creamy, dairy-free twist. The tropical flavor pairs surprisingly well with the sweet meringue!
Chocolate Delight: Fold in cocoa powder into the meringue for a chocolatey base. It adds a rich and indulgent flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
Tropical Fruit Medley: Use a mix of exotic fruits like mango, pineapple, and passion fruit to top your Pavlova. This twist brings a bright burst of flavor reminiscent of sun-soaked holidays.
Spiced Elements: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the meringue for a cozy spiced flavor that elevates the dessert for the holiday season. These warm notes will envelop your gathering in comfort.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or hazelnuts on top for a delicious crunch. The nutty flavor adds another layer of depth while balancing the sweetness.
Berry Blast: Go wild with a variety of berries, such as strawberries, blackberries, or blueberries for an eye-catching topping. Each bite will bring a symphony of tart and sweet!
Lemon Zest Brightness: Add fresh lemon zest to the almond cream for a refreshing zing that brilliantly contrasts with the sweetness of the meringue. It’s a lovely nod to balance in desserts.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top for a decadent flair. The sweet, salty notes of caramel truly take this dessert to the next level.

Feel free to check out more ideas on crafting uniquely delicious desserts in our collection of festive treats and how to customize them to your liking!

Christmas Pavlova Wreath Recipe FAQs

What kind of egg whites should I use for the meringue?
Absolutely! Use large egg whites that are at room temperature for optimal whipping. Cold egg whites are less stable and may not achieve the desired volume. Always ensure that there’s no yolk in the whites, as even a tiny bit can prevent them from reaching stiff peaks.

How should I store the Pavlova Wreath?
To keep your unassembled Pavlova Wreath at its best, store the meringue in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’ve topped it with almond cream and fruits, enjoy it fresh! It can be refrigerated for a maximum of 4 hours, but it may lose some of its crisp allure after that.

Can I freeze my Pavlova Wreath?
The more the merrier! However, freezing the entire assembled Pavlova Wreath isn’t recommended, as it will affect the texture and make it soggy. You can freeze just the meringue for up to 1 month. To do this, lay the meringue on a tray lined with parchment and freeze until solid, then wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.

What if my meringue doesn’t get stiff peaks?
Very! If your meringue isn’t forming stiff peaks, there might be a few reasons: Make sure your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and grease-free. If there is any yolk in the egg whites, this can prevent them from whipping properly. Continue to whip, gradually adding the sugar once soft peaks form, as this helps stabilize the meringue.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! If you’re substituting ingredients for dietary needs, you can use a dairy-free option by replacing the heavy cream with coconut cream. For those with nut allergies, swap out the almond extract and cream for vanilla options. Always check labels if you’re serving guests with specific dietary restrictions, to ensure everyone can enjoy this Pavlova Wreath!