A stunning Pavlova Christmas Tree adorned with fruits and cream, perfect for festive celebrations.

Pavlova Christmas Tree

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

The Pavlova Christmas Tree is a delightful dessert that adds a festive touch to any holiday gathering. With its light and airy meringue layers, creamy filling, and fresh fruit, this dessert not only looks beautiful but tastes amazing. It’s a great way to impress your guests while enjoying a sweet treat that is a little different from traditional holiday desserts.

How to Make Pavlova Christmas Tree

Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup egg whites (from 5 – 6 large eggs, at room temperature (Note 1))
  • 1 1/4 cups caster sugar (superfine white sugar)
  • 2 1/2 tsp cornflour/cornstarch
  • 1 1/4 tsp white vinegar (Note 2)
  • 250g / 8oz frozen or fresh raspberries (no need to thaw, Note 3)
  • 2 tbsp caster sugar (superfine white sugar)
  • 2 cups thickened/heavy cream (Note 8)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp caster sugar (superfine white sugar)
  • 28cm/11" bamboo skewer – or 2 shorter skewers (Note 4)
  • 10 medium strawberries, cut into 1.75cm / 3/4" rounds ("Strawberry Pillars")
  • 12 strawberries, cut into 1cm dices (for scattering between layers)
  • Christmas tree star topper (edible or not, sticky taped to a toothpick)
  • 125g/4oz raspberries
  • 16 small sprigs of rosemary
  • 2 tbsp icing sugar/powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • More strawberries (diced), raspberries, blueberries, and any other fruit you fancy!

Directions

  • Preparation: Preheat your oven to 120°C (250°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • Meringue for Pavlova: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the caster sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture is glossy and stiff. Gently fold in the cornflour and white vinegar.

  • Piping Pavlova Rounds: Transfer the meringue into a piping bag. Pipe different sized rounds onto the lined baking sheet to form the tree shape you desire.

  • Bake: Place the meringue in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. Turn off the oven and let the meringue cool completely inside.

  • Raspberry Coulis (make at least 2 hours ahead): In a small saucepan, cook the raspberries and caster sugar over low heat until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens. Strain to remove seeds and let it cool.

  • Whip Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the thickened cream with vanilla extract and sugar until soft peaks form.

  • Construction (watch video!): Stack the meringue rounds, using whipped cream and raspberry coulis in between each layer. Insert the skewers into the layers for support.

  • Decorate!: Top with fresh strawberries, raspberries, rosemary sprigs, and dust with icing sugar. Add your star topper to finish.

  • Serving: Slice the Pavlova Christmas Tree into portions and serve with extra fruit on the side.

How to Serve Pavlova Christmas Tree

Serve the Pavlova Christmas Tree as a festive centerpiece at your holiday table. It’s perfect for sharing and is sure to delight your guests. Pair with extra whipped cream or a side of raspberry coulis for added flavor.

How to Store Pavlova Christmas Tree

To store the Pavlova, keep it in an airtight container in a cool place, ideally not in the fridge, to maintain its crisp texture. It is best eaten within a day or two after assembling. If you need to prepare in advance, store the meringue layers and assemble them just before serving.

Tips to Make Pavlova Christmas Tree

  • Make sure your mixing bowl and utensils are perfectly clean and dry to achieve the best meringue.
  • Use room temperature egg whites for better volume.
  • Be gentle when folding in the cornflour and vinegar to keep the meringue airy.
  • If you want a colorful dessert, feel free to mix different fruits for decoration.

Variation

You can customize your Pavlova Christmas Tree with different fruits like kiwi, passion fruit, or even chocolate shavings. You can also try flavored whipped cream by adding cocoa or a bit of zest for a twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make the meringue ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the meringue a day in advance and keep it stored in a cool, dry place until you are ready to assemble.

2. What can I use instead of raspberries?
You can use any berries or fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even a mix of seasonal fruits depending on your preference.

3. Can I freeze the Pavlova?
Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the meringue. However, you can freeze the meringue layers separately and reassemble them after thawing.