Description
This festive meringue wreath brings together a crisp, cloud-like shell, fluffy whipped cream, and juicy spiced berries. It’s an elegant dessert that makes any holiday table feel extra special.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large egg whites (approximately 120 g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (3 g)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar (5 ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 1 pinch cream of tartar (approximately 0.5 g)
- 2 cups mixed berries (300 g)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (25 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (1 g)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (approximately 2 g)
- 1 tablespoon orange juice (15 ml)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (240 ml)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (15 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5 ml)
- 1/2 cup fresh berries (75 g)
- Fresh mint leaves, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a 9-inch circle with a 4-inch circle inside it.
- Beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy, then continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until the meringue becomes glossy and forms stiff peaks.
- Gently fold in the cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
- Spoon the meringue around the prepared circle to form a wreath, creating decorative peaks with a spoon.
- Bake for 75–90 minutes, until the outside feels dry and crisp.
- Turn off the oven and allow the meringue to cool inside for 1–2 hours or until completely cool.
- Combine the mixed berries, sugar, cinnamon, orange zest, and orange juice in a saucepan.
- Cook the berry mixture over low to medium-low heat for 4–6 minutes, until the berries soften slightly. Cool completely.
- Beat the heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until medium-stiff peaks form.
- Transfer the cooled meringue wreath to a serving platter and spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top.
- Spoon the cooled spiced berries over the cream and decorate with fresh berries and mint leaves.
- Serve shortly after assembling for the best contrast between the crisp meringue and creamy, fruity topping.
- Prep Time: 25
- Category: cookies
- Cuisine: amircain