Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both fun to serve and delicious, you’ve got to try this Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Recipe. It’s a total crowd-pleaser with crisp-on-the-outside, marshmallowy-on-the-inside meringues piled high with whipped cream and juicy fresh fruit. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll be your go-to for holidays, parties, or any time you want to impress without stress!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Recipe might seem simple, but each one plays an important role. Using fresh egg whites and quality cream really makes the texture sing, and picking ripe, vibrant fruit makes it taste like a celebration in every bite.

• Extra-large egg whites: Fresh is best here; it helps the meringue whip up nicely and hold its shape.
• Icing sugar (powdered sugar): Make sure it’s sifted well to avoid lumps in your meringue—smooth is key!
• Cornstarch: This little trick keeps the meringue crisp on the outside but soft inside—don’t skip it!
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to both your meringue and cream.
• Heavy cream (whipping cream): Use a good-quality cream with at least 35% fat for that perfect whip.
• Fresh fruit (berries): Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries—whatever you love and what’s in season.
• Fresh mint: Adds a pop of color and a gentle herbal note that lifts the whole dish.

Variations

I love playing around with this Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Recipe depending on the season or the occasion. Sometimes I throw in tropical fruit for summer, or swap the mint for basil leaves for an unexpected twist. It’s really about making the recipe your own—and that’s part of the fun!

• Berry Medley: My family goes crazy for a colorful mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries—it adds natural sweetness and beautiful color.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For a richer dessert, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cream and fruit. It’s a decadent upgrade that’s surprisingly easy.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream—whip it up until fluffy, and you’ve got a vegan-friendly twist my friends rave about.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds over the cream for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.

How to Make Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Recipe

Step 1: Whip the Egg Whites to Perfection

Start by preheating your oven to 90°C (195°F) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. In your mixer bowl fitted with a whisk attachment, beat those extra-large egg whites until they get foamy and start to form soft peaks. This step is where patience really pays off. Slowly add the sifted icing sugar while you keep beating — it can take up to 8 minutes before the meringue becomes that glossy, stiff, white cloud you want. Make sure you keep the speed steady and don’t rush, or you might miss the perfect peak stage.

Step 2: Add Cornstarch and Vanilla, Then Pipe

Once your meringue is stiff and shiny, gently fold in the cornstarch and vanilla extract. This is the secret to that crisp outside yet soft center. Next, pipe or spoon small, 5cm diameter mounds of meringue on your baking sheets and leave about 5cm space between each. I use a little spoon to make a dent in the middle of each mound, which lets the cream settle in perfectly later.

Step 3: Bake Low and Slow, Then Cool Completely

Bake your meringues for 60 minutes, then switch the oven off and let them cool fully inside—this usually takes around 2 hours. Cooling gradually like this is crucial to avoid cracking and helps the pavlova develop that delicate texture I love. Don’t be tempted to open the oven early; your patience will definitely pay off!

Step 4: Assemble Your Wreath

Once cool, carefully arrange the baked meringues in a wreath shape on a large serving platter or board. Whip your cream with the icing sugar and vanilla until it reaches medium-stiff peaks—soft enough to spread but firm enough to hold its shape. Dollop or spoon the cream generously onto each pavlova, then top with fresh berries and sprigs of mint. This is where it looks absolutely magical and tastes even better!

How to Serve Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Recipe

Garnishes

I almost always stick with a mix of fresh berries—strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are my go-to—because they add freshness and natural sweetness without overpowering the pavlova. Fresh mint leaves add a lovely herbal pop and make it look festive. If I’ve got them, a light dusting of icing sugar right before serving never hurts either!

Side Dishes

Since this Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath is such a rich and sweet dessert, I like to serve it after lighter dishes. A crisp salad or something citrusy works well for the meal beforehand. Sometimes, I serve it with a cup of good-quality coffee or herbal tea to balance the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve tried adding edible flowers alongside the mint, which instantly dresses up the wreath and makes guests go “Wow!” Another time I made mini individual pavlova wreaths on small plates—everyone loved having their own portion! You could also switch up the fruit colors seasonally—think pomegranate seeds and kiwi for a winter twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftover meringues and whipped cream separate to avoid sogginess. The meringues store great in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The whipped cream keeps in the fridge, covered, for about 24 hours—after that it may start to separate or get watery.

Freezing

I haven’t had great luck freezing the assembled pavlova wreath because the meringue loses its crisp texture. However, you can freeze individual baked meringues in an airtight container for up to a month. Just thaw at room temperature and then add fresh cream and fruit before serving.

Reheating

Meringues really aren’t meant for reheating, but if you want to warm them slightly, I recommend a quick 5-minute blast in a low oven (about 100°C / 210°F) to freshen their crunch. Definitely wait to add cream and fruit until after reheating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Pull Apart Pavlova Wreath Recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it’s not just a dessert—it’s an experience. The joy of pulling apart those little mounds, spooning on clouds of cream, and tasting fresh fruit makes every bite feel special. Whether you’re making this for a festive occasion or a weekend treat, I promise you’ll love how easy and gorgeous it turns out. Give it a try, and I bet it’ll become a family tradition in no time!

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