Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Pavlova Wreath Dessert

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This Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Pavlova Wreath Dessert is the showstopper your holiday table deserves. With a crisp meringue shell, fluffy marshmallow interior, and snowy dusting of peppermint chocolate, it’s a winter dream come true. Topped with billowy whipped cream, fresh berries, and crushed peppermint, every slice brings festive joy and melt-in-your-mouth magic.

What makes this dessert unforgettable is the contrast of textures and flavors. The cocoa-spiked meringue base offers a slight chew while still airy, and the peppermint swirl adds a cool holiday zing. Garnish with pomegranate arils or sugared cranberries for a dazzling pop of color and tart sparkle. Whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner or a holiday brunch, this pavlova wreath is a celebration centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Pavlova Wreath Dessert

This dessert isn’t just beautiful, it’s gluten-free, naturally low in fat, and incredibly versatile. You can make it ahead of time, customize the toppings to suit your style, and serve it with pride. The wreath shape brings a festive touch without needing complicated tools or pans. Plus, it strikes that perfect holiday balance between indulgent and refreshing.

What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use?

For the best flavor, use unsweetened cocoa powder for the meringue base and semi-sweet or dark chocolate for melting into the drizzle. The cocoa adds richness without heaviness, and the melted chocolate pairs beautifully with peppermint. Avoid milk chocolate if you want that clean, bold contrast.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Pavlova Wreath Dessert

Creating this Christmas pavlova is all about balance. Each ingredient plays a role in achieving that crisp outside and soft center, while offering deep chocolate flavor and bright peppermint flair.

• Egg whites: The backbone of the meringue. Make sure they’re at room temperature to whip up to full volume.
• Granulated sugar: Stabilizes the egg whites and adds sweetness. Adding it slowly is key.
• Cornstarch: Helps create that perfect marshmallow center.
• White vinegar: Strengthens the meringue structure and improves texture.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the meringue a subtle chocolate richness.
• Peppermint extract: Infuses a cool, holiday-inspired flavor.
• Heavy whipping cream: Whips into the luscious topping that crowns the meringue.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without grittiness.
• Crushed peppermint candies: Adds color, crunch, and seasonal sparkle.
• Dark or semi-sweet chocolate: Melted for drizzling and decoration.
• Fresh berries or pomegranate arils: Optional, but highly recommended for brightness and color.

How To Make the Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Pavlova Wreath Dessert

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a 9-inch circle. Inside that, draw a smaller 5-inch circle to guide your wreath shape.

Step 2: Make the Meringue

In a clean bowl, whip the egg whites on medium until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating on high until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy. Sift in the cocoa powder, then fold in the cornstarch, vinegar, and peppermint extract until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the Wreath

Spoon the meringue into a ring shape between your drawn circles. Smooth the top and create gentle swoops. This helps catch toppings later.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Place the meringue in the oven and bake for 90 minutes. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside with the door closed for another hour. This prevents cracks and helps set the structure.

Step 5: Whip the Cream and Decorate

Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spoon it over the cooled meringue. Top with crushed peppermint, berries, and a generous chocolate drizzle. Chill briefly or serve right away.

Serving and Storing Your Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Pavlova Wreath Dessert

This festive pavlova serves 8 to 10 people generously, making it perfect for holiday parties or intimate gatherings alike. It should be assembled just before serving to maintain its beautiful structure and contrast of textures. If needed, you can bake the meringue base a day ahead and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Leftovers are best eaten within a day, though the texture may soften slightly. Store any extra in the fridge, loosely covered, and enjoy as a decadent breakfast treat with coffee the next morning.

What to Serve With This Dessert?

Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows

The ultimate cozy pairing. The creamy sweetness of cocoa complements the peppermint crunch.

Mulled Wine or Spiced Cider

Serve warm drinks with aromatic spices to balance the lightness of the pavlova.

Christmas Roast or Glazed Ham

This dessert provides the sweet finish after a hearty holiday main.

Espresso or Cappuccino

The slight bitterness of coffee elevates the chocolate notes beautifully.

Fresh Mint Tea

A calming end to the meal that echoes the peppermint in the pavlova.

Cheese Plate with Fruit

A pre-dessert option to offer contrast before diving into something sweet.

Eggnog

Traditional, rich, and perfect for the holidays. Serve chilled alongside your pavlova slice.

Want More Christmas Dessert Ideas?

If this Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Pavlova Wreath made your festive table sparkle, you’ll definitely want to try:

• Southern Banana Cobbler for a warm, fruity twist.
• Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches when you want decadence in every bite.
• Easy Jello Meringue Cookies to use your extra egg whites!
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread for chocolate lovers in the family.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls when you’re craving sweet rolls with a twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with dark or semi-sweet chocolate? Top it with pomegranate or stick with peppermint?

I love seeing your holiday spins on these classics. Have questions or tips to share? Drop them below!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

The Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Pavlova Wreath Dessert is a celebration of contrasts: crisp and soft, rich and fresh, festive yet light. It’s a joy to make, a delight to serve, and impossible not to smile at when it hits the table. Make it part of your holiday tradition and watch it disappear slice by slice.

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