Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath – Perfect Christmas Dessert Recipe
The Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath is the ultimate festive dessert to impress your guests this holiday season. Its crispy meringue base, topped with fresh, tangy berries and a sweet drizzle, creates a showstopping centerpiece for any Christmas or holiday gathering. Easy to make and delicious to eat, this recipe will add a touch of elegance to your table.
For more delightful holiday recipes, you can check out our Christmas Stuffing with Bacon, which pairs perfectly with savory dishes for your holiday feast.
Ingredients for the Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath
Meringue Base
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Berry Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (halved)
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
For more sweet treats, take a look at our Holiday Chocolate Bark Recipe for another crowd-pleasing dessert.
Equipment Needed:
| Equipment | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowl | 1 |
| Electric mixer | 1 |
| Baking sheet | 1 |
| Parchment paper | 1 sheet |
| Spatula | 1 |
If you’re looking for more tips on perfecting your baking, check out Tips for Baking Perfect Meringue, which offers useful tricks to achieve the perfect texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath
Step 1: Prepare the Meringue
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the mixture until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
- Add the cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract to the egg whites, and gently fold them in with a spatula until combined.
- Shape the meringue: Spoon the meringue onto the lined baking sheet, forming a wreath shape. Use a spatula to create swirls and peaks for added texture.
For more festive inspiration, take a look at our Classic Cheesecake Recipe for another sweet indulgence.
Step 2: Bake the Meringue
- Place the meringue in the oven and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours until crisp on the outside but soft inside.
- Turn off the oven and allow the meringue to cool completely inside the oven to avoid cracking.
Step 3: Prepare the Berries
- While the meringue cools, wash and dry the berries. Gently toss them with a tablespoon of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
- Arrange the berries evenly around the wreath once the meringue has cooled.
Pro Tip: For an extra festive touch, drizzle the wreath with melted white chocolate before serving.
Assembly and Garnishing
- Once the meringue is cooled and crisp, carefully transfer it to a serving platter.
- Top the meringue with the prepared berries, creating a wreath-like pattern.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and an extra dusting of powdered sugar to complete the festive look.
For other holiday treats, be sure to try our Christmas Yule Log Recipe for a traditional festive cake that pairs wonderfully with coffee.
Variations of Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the berries for a richer flavor.
- Lemon Zest: For a citrusy kick, sprinkle lemon zest over the meringue base before baking.
- Nuts: Add crushed pistachios or almonds for a crunchy contrast to the soft meringue and juicy berries.
For more holiday ideas, check out Bon Appetit’s Holiday Dessert Guide for great twists on classic recipes.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature to get the best volume when whipping them.
- No Rush Cooling: Letting the meringue cool slowly in the oven prevents cracking and maintains its structure.
- Sugar Gradual Addition: Slowly add the sugar to ensure it dissolves completely and avoids grainy meringue.
FAQs About Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath
1. Can I make the meringue ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meringue up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature and assemble it with the berries just before serving.
2. What type of berries can I use?
Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are great options, but you can also use blackberries, cherries, or any other seasonal fruits.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover meringue wreath in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. The meringue may soften slightly but will still taste delicious for up to two days.
What to Serve with Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath
- Sparkling Wine: The crisp and sweet notes of the meringue and berries pair beautifully with a glass of chilled sparkling wine.
- Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea like chamomile or mint complements the dessert without overpowering the flavors.
Conclusion
This Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath is a must-try for your festive celebrations. Its stunning appearance, balanced by the sweetness of the berries and the crispness of the meringue, makes it an unforgettable dessert.
Make sure to explore our Chocolate Almond Cake Recipe for another delightful sweet treat that will impress your holiday guests.