Irresistible Peppermint Pavlova with White Chocolate Whipped Cream

If you’re in the mood for a dessert that’ll wow your friends and family during the holiday season, look no further than this Irresistible Peppermint Pavlova with White Chocolate Whipped Cream. This stunning pavlova is not just beautiful to look at, but it also delivers a delightful crunch and creamy richness in every bite. With its elegant, meringue base topped with luscious whipped cream and a festive hint of peppermint, this dessert captures the essence of the holidays perfectly.

Why Make This Irresistible Peppermint Pavlova with White Chocolate Whipped Cream

This peppermint pavlova stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, the meringue offers a unique combination of a crisp outer shell with a soft, chewy center that melts in your mouth. The whipped cream, infused with rich white chocolate, adds an indulgent layer that complements the lightness of the meringue beautifully. Plus, the crushed candy canes on top provide a delightful crunch and a burst of peppermint flavor that screams holiday cheer. It’s a showstopper for any gathering, and the fun colors will brighten up your dessert table.

How to Make Irresistible Peppermint Pavlova with White Chocolate Whipped Cream

Making a peppermint pavlova might sound daunting, but it’s quite simple with the right approach. The process mainly involves whipping egg whites into a glossy meringue and gently folding in peppermint flavor and color. Baking it low and slow will give you that perfect texture – crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Then, the fun part comes with whipping the cream and folding in the white chocolate. Trust us, this dessert is worth every minute spent in the kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 6 large Egg whites (Crucial for a billowy texture.)
• 1.25 cups Granulated sugar (Ensures glossy meringue.)
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt (Enhances flavor.)
• 0.5 tablespoons Cornstarch (Creates a soft interior.)
• 1 teaspoon White wine vinegar (Maintains meringue structure.)
• 1 teaspoon Peppermint extract (Adds signature flavor.)
• 3-5 drops Red food coloring (For holiday swirl.)
• 2.5 cups Hood Heavy Cream (Creates a rich topping.)
• 4 ounces White chocolate (Chopped roughly for mixing.)
• 0.25 cups Crushed candy canes (Provides a delightful crunch.)

Directions:

Steps to Prepare

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a 9-inch circle on it as a guide for your meringue.

2. Make the Meringue: In a large bowl, add the egg whites and salt. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to whip them until they form soft peaks. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Once glossy and stiff peaks form, fold in the cornstarch, white wine vinegar, peppermint extract, and red food coloring gently until combined.

3. Shape the Meringue: Spoon the meringue onto the prepared parchment paper, using the drawn circle as a guide. Create a slight dip in the center for holding the whipped cream later.

4. Bake: Place the meringue in the oven and bake for about 1.5 hours. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside with the door ajar to cool completely. This helps prevent cracks.

5. Prepare the Whipped Cream: While the pavlova cools, whip the Hood Heavy Cream until soft peaks form. Melt the white chocolate and let it cool slightly before folding it into the cream gently.

6. Assemble: Once the pavlova is completely cool, gently place it on a serving platter. Spoon the white chocolate whipped cream into the center and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1/12 of the pavlova):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 98mg
• Sodium: 138mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 30g
• Protein: 3g

How to Serve Irresistible Peppermint Pavlova with White Chocolate Whipped Cream

Serve your delicious pavlova chilled or at room temperature. This dessert can be sliced into wedges for a lovely presentation. Pair it with a warm cup of cocoa or coffee for a cozy dessert experience. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, birthdays, or even as a sweet ending to a weeknight dinner.

How to Store Irresistible Peppermint Pavlova with White Chocolate Whipped Cream

To store your pavlova, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. However, it is best enjoyed fresh. If you know there will be leftovers, consider adding the whipped cream and candy canes just before serving to maintain that delightful texture and crunch.

Expert Tips for Perfect Irresistible Peppermint Pavlova with White Chocolate Whipped Cream

• Fresh Eggs: Use fresh egg whites for the best volume in your meringue.
• Clean Equipment: Ensure all your bowls and beaters are free from grease or any remnants of yolk; this will help the egg whites whip properly.
• Slow Baking: Resist the urge to increase the oven temperature; a slow bake is vital for the perfect meringue.
• Cooling: Allow the meringue to cool slowly to prevent cracks.
• Variations: Experiment with flavors by using vanilla instead of peppermint or add different extracts for a unique twist.

Delicious Variations

• Chocolate Pavlova: Incorporate cocoa powder into the meringue for a chocolatey base, and top it with dark chocolate whipped cream.
• Fruit Toppings: Instead of candy canes, use fresh berries with a sprinkle of mint for a lighter option.
• Lemon Pavlova: Replace peppermint extract with lemon zest for a fresh twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make pavlova without an electric mixer?
  It’s possible, but it will be quite challenging. An electric mixer helps achieve the stiff peaks necessary for a successful meringue.

• How do I know when my meringue is done baking?
  You can gently tap the meringue—it should feel dry and crisp on the outside. If it still feels sticky or soft, it needs more time.

• Can I use different sugars?
  Granulated sugar is best for meringue as it dissolves well. Avoid using powdered sugar, as it could affect the texture.

Conclusion

This Irresistible Peppermint Pavlova with White Chocolate Whipped Cream is a festive delight that will impress anyone at your table. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a memorable dessert. So why not give it a try? You’ll enjoy making it as much as you will savoring each heavenly bite! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag your friends to inspire them to get baking!