A Pavlova Christmas Tree with Fresh Fruits is a show-stopping holiday dessert featuring layers of crisp meringue, fluffy whipped cream, and vibrant seasonal fruits. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, this festive centerpiece is as delicious as it is beautiful, bringing elegance and flavor to your holiday table.

Contents show

Ingredients

For the Pavlova:

6 large egg whites, at room temperature
1 ½ cups (300g) caster sugar
1 tsp white vinegar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Toppings:

2 cups heavy cream, chilled
2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup raspberries
1 cup strawberries, halved
2 passion fruits, pulp scooped
½ cup chocolate-dipped strawberries (optional)
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Chocolate star or decorative topper

Instructions

Prepare the Pavlova Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line three baking sheets with parchment paper and draw circles of decreasing sizes (e.g., 10-inch, 8-inch, and 6-inch) to form the tree layers.
- In a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Fold in the vinegar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract gently with a spatula.
Shape and Bake:
- Divide the meringue among the prepared circles and shape each into a dome with a flat top using the back of a spoon.
- Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside to cool completely.
Make the Whipped Cream:
- Whip the chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Keep refrigerated until ready to assemble.
Assemble the Christmas Tree:
- Place the largest meringue layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top and scatter some raspberries, strawberries, and passion fruit pulp.
- Repeat the process with the remaining layers, stacking them to create a tree shape.
- Finish with a dollop of whipped cream, more fresh fruits, and a chocolate star or decorative topper.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Dust the entire tree with powdered sugar for a snowy effect and serve immediately for a delightful holiday centerpiece.

Notes

Ensure the mixing bowl and whisk are completely grease-free for the best meringue results.
You can customize the fruits with your favorites, such as kiwi, blueberries, or pomegranate seeds.
Store leftover pavlova in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Assemble only before serving to retain the crisp texture.

Helpful Tips for Pavlova Christmas Tree with Fresh Fruits

Slowly Add Sugar:
Gradually add the sugar one tablespoon at a time while beating the egg whites. This ensures the sugar dissolves completely, creating a smooth and glossy meringue without a grainy texture.
Whipped Cream Tips:
Chill the bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for better results. Add powdered sugar and vanilla for a touch of sweetness and flavor.
Assemble Just Before Serving:
For the crispiest texture, assemble the pavlova right before serving. Once topped with whipped cream and fruit, the meringue will soften over time.
Customize the Fruits:
Choose seasonal fruits to match the occasion. Passion fruit, strawberries, raspberries, and mango add a tropical twist, while pomegranate seeds and cranberries create a wintry vibe.

Substitutions and Variations for Pavlova Christmas Tree with Fresh Fruits

Substitutions:

Egg Whites:
- Replace fresh egg whites with liquid egg whites from a carton for convenience. However, ensure they are suitable for meringues.
- For a vegan alternative, use aquafaba (chickpea brine), which whips up similarly to egg whites.
Caster Sugar:
- If you don’t have caster sugar, pulse granulated sugar in a food processor to achieve a finer consistency. Avoid powdered sugar, as it contains starch that can affect the meringue.
Heavy Cream:
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Chill the coconut cream overnight, then whip the solidified portion with a touch of sugar.
Fruits:
- Use any seasonal or available fruits like blueberries, blackberries, kiwi, or even pomegranate arils for vibrant pops of color.
- Swap passion fruit pulp with orange or lemon curd for a tangy, creamy alternative.

Variations

Tropical Twist:
For a more exotic flavor profile, swap traditional fruits with tropical options like mango, pineapple, and papaya. Additionally, drizzle the layers with passion fruit syrup or coconut cream to enhance the tropical vibe. This variation is perfect for those seeking a sunny escape during the winter season.
Berry Bliss:
To create a red-and-white holiday theme, use an assortment of berries such as strawberries, raspberries, and cherries. Furthermore, you can add a touch of whipped mascarpone to complement the sweetness of the berries, giving your dessert a classic and festive color palette.
Winter Wonderland:
For a wintry look, include fruits like pomegranate seeds, cranberries, and slices of blood orange. Additionally, sprinkle the whipped cream with cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spiced flavor. This variation pairs beautifully with snowy powdered sugar for a frosty, seasonal effect.
Chocolate Delight:
If you’re a chocolate lover, incorporate cocoa powder into the meringue mixture for a rich, chocolate-flavored base. Moreover, drizzle melted chocolate or ganache over each layer, and garnish with chocolate-dipped fruits or shavings for added decadence. This version is sure to impress guests with its indulgent appeal.
Nutty Elegance:
For an elevated texture, sprinkle crushed nuts like pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts onto the meringue layers before baking. Furthermore, you can garnish the assembled pavlova with candied nuts or brittle for an extra layer of crunch. This variation not only adds sophistication but also a delightful contrast to the soft cream and fruits.

These substitutions and variations allow you to adapt the recipe for different dietary needs, flavor profiles, and occasions while keeping it festive and stunning!

Frequently Asked Questions for Pavlova Christmas Tree with Fresh Fruits

What if my meringue cracks during baking?

Cracking is normal and adds a rustic charm to the pavlova. If the cracks are large, use whipped cream and fruits to hide them during assembly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with whipped coconut cream. Chill the coconut cream overnight, then whip the solidified portion for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.

Can I use granulated sugar instead of caster sugar?

Yes, but it’s best to pulse granulated sugar in a food processor to achieve a finer consistency. This helps it dissolve more easily in the egg whites.

What fruits work best for this recipe?

Fresh, colorful fruits like raspberries, strawberries, passion fruit, kiwi, and pomegranate seeds work wonderfully. You can also use blueberries, mango, or cherries for variety.

How do I prevent the meringue from collapsing?

To prevent collapse, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, bake the meringue at a low temperature, and let it cool completely in the oven before removing it.

Can I customize the shape of the pavlova?

Yes! While this recipe creates a tree shape, you can also make individual mini pavlovas, wreaths, or even stack them into a round cake shape.

How do I store leftovers?

Assembled pavlova should be eaten the same day because the whipped cream and fruits can soften the meringue. If there are leftovers, store them in the refrigerator, but the texture may change.

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Christmas Tree Pavlova Recipe – A festive and creative pavlova tree recipe with vibrant decorations.
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Pavlova Christmas Tree Dessert – A stunning pavlova dessert perfect for the holiday table.