Description
A festive Matcha Christmas Wreath Pavlova featuring a crisp and glossy matcha-flavored meringue base topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream, assorted fresh berries, and mint leaves. This elegant and delicious dessert is perfect for holiday celebrations, showcasing a beautiful wreath design with a delicate blend of matcha and classic pavlova textures.
Ingredients
Meringue Base
- 8 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Aiya America matcha powder, plus more for sprinkling
Whipped Cream Topping
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Garnish
- 1 small bunch mint leaves
- Assorted fresh berries (cherries, blackberries, blueberries, halved strawberries, pomegranate seeds)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a mixing bowl, trace a large circle on the parchment paper, then place a small bowl or lid at the center to trace a smaller circle, creating a wreath-shaped guide. Set aside.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a large bowl, beat the egg whites on high speed with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Continue beating as you slowly add the granulated sugar, a little at a time, until the sugar is fully dissolved, resulting in a glossy meringue.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Then sprinkle in the cornstarch and matcha powder. Continue beating for about 5 more minutes until the mixture is glossy and well combined.
- Shape Pavlova: Spoon the meringue mixture onto the parchment paper, between the traced circles, shaping it into a wreath form as per the guide.
- Bake Pavlova: Reduce oven temperature to 200°F and immediately transfer the pavlova into the oven. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside to cool completely for at least 2 hours.
- Store: Once cooled, carefully remove the pavlova and store in an airtight container if not decorating immediately. Avoid decorating until a couple of hours before serving to prevent it from softening.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form.
- Decorate: Dollop the whipped cream evenly around the top of the pavlova. Press assorted fresh berries and mint leaves into the whipped cream to cover the surface.
- Finish and Serve: Lightly sprinkle additional matcha powder on top. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure egg whites are at room temperature to achieve maximum volume.
- Be careful not to decorate the pavlova too far in advance, or the meringue will soften.
- Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and visual appeal.
- Matcha powder can be adjusted in quantity to taste, but excessive amounts may make the meringue bitter.
- If you don’t have Aiya America matcha powder, use a high-quality culinary grade matcha.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western, Christmas Holiday
