Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 90°C (195°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the egg whites until foamy.
- Gradually add sifted icing sugar while continuing to mix until the mixture turns bright white and forms stiff peaks.
- Gently fold the cornstarch and vanilla into the meringue.
- Pipe small mounds (about 5cm in diameter) on the baking sheets, ensuring 5cm space in-between. Create a tiny dent in the center of each mound using a teaspoon.
- Bake for 60 minutes to gently dry out the meringues. After baking, turn off the oven and leave them inside for another 2 hours to cool completely.
- Carefully remove the cooled meringues and arrange them in a circle on a large platter.
- In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with icing sugar and vanilla until medium-stiff peaks form.
- Scoop or pipe the whipped cream onto each meringue nest, and top generously with fresh berries and mint leaves.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the delicious contrast of textures!
Best ways to enjoy it
To create an even more delightful experience, consider serving this Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath alongside a glass of bubbly or festive cocktails. It also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a versatile dessert option for any occasion. A sprinkle of extra mint leaves on the platter enhances the dish’s presentation, inviting everyone to dive in.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare given how tempting this dessert is!), store any remaining meringues in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. It’s best to add the whipped cream and fresh fruit just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
For longer storage, you can freeze the baked meringues. Just ensure they are well-wrapped, and they can last for up to a month in the freezer—perfect for when unexpected guests arrive!
Extra advice
- When whipping the egg whites, make sure there are no traces of yolk; even a tiny bit can prevent them from achieving volume.
- On humid days, meringues can be tricky. Ensure your workspace is dry for the best outcome.
- Experiment with flavors in your whipped cream. A hint of lemon zest, almond extract, or cocoa powder can give your dessert a unique spin.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath! You can swap out the berries for seasonal fruits like pomegranate in winter or mango in summer. If you want to play with flavors, try adding chocolate shavings or a fruit compote as a topping for an extra burst of flavor. For a more tropical touch, serve with coconut shavings or passionfruit!
FAQ
What is the prep time for this Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath?
The prep time is about 25 minutes, but remember to allocate an additional 2 hours for the meringues to cool completely in the oven.
Can I make the meringues in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meringues a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Just assemble the wreath with the whipped cream and toppings right before serving.
How can I ensure my meringues are crispy?
Cooling the meringues in the oven after baking is crucial. It helps them dry out thoroughly, ensuring they remain crisp, even after adding toppings.
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