Name: Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large egg whites; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp cream of tartar or 1 tsp white vinegar; 2 tsp cornstarch; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1/2 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, halved; 1/2 cup fresh blueberries; Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

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This Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath is a light and elegant dessert that makes a stunning centerpiece for any festive table. With a crisp outer shell and soft marshmallowy center, it’s topped with whipped cream and fresh berries for a vibrant, show-stopping treat that tastes as incredible as it looks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dessert because it’s both beautiful and delicious. The meringue is crisp on the outside and soft inside—almost like a marshmallow cloud. I top it with whipped cream and a colorful mix of berries, making it both refreshing and indulgent. It’s gluten-free, naturally light, and perfect after a rich holiday meal. Plus, it looks so impressive with minimal effort—I always get compliments when I bring it out. Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

egg whites
granulated sugar
cream of tartar or white vinegar
cornstarch
vanilla extract
heavy whipping cream
powdered sugar
fresh raspberries
fresh strawberries
fresh blueberries
fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven and draw a circle (or wreath shape) on parchment paper as a guide.
I beat the egg whites until foamy, then add cream of tartar or vinegar.
While beating, I gradually add sugar until the mixture is glossy and forms stiff peaks. I fold in cornstarch and vanilla.
I spoon the meringue onto the parchment, shaping it into a ring.
I bake it low and slow until it’s dry to the touch and just lightly golden, then turn off the oven and let it cool inside with the door cracked.
While it cools, I whip the cream with powdered sugar until it forms soft peaks.
I top the cooled meringue with whipped cream, arrange the berries, and garnish with mint if I want an extra festive touch.

Servings and timing

This wreath serves about 8 people. It takes 20 minutes to prepare, around 1 hour and 15 minutes to bake, plus at least 1 hour of cooling time in the oven.

Variations

I sometimes add lemon or orange zest to the whipped cream for a citrus twist. If I want a more decadent version, I drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the berries. For a tropical flair, I’ve swapped out traditional berries for kiwi, mango, and passionfruit. Around Valentine’s Day, I even shape the meringue into a heart instead of a wreath.

storage/reheating

This dessert is best served the day it’s made, but if I have leftovers, I store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. The meringue will soften a bit but still tastes great. I don’t reheat it—it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath

FAQs

Can I make the meringue ahead of time?

Yes, I like to bake the meringue base a day in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. I add the toppings just before serving to keep it crisp.

Why did my meringue crack?

A little cracking is normal, but to avoid major cracks, I cool the meringue slowly in the oven after baking. Sudden temperature changes can cause it to collapse or crack more.

Can I use frozen berries?

I don’t recommend it. Frozen berries release too much moisture and can make the meringue soggy. I always use fresh berries for the best texture and appearance.

What if I don’t have cream of tartar?

I use white vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute. They help stabilize the egg whites just as well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it naturally is! Meringue contains no flour, making it a great option for gluten-free guests.

Conclusion

This Holiday Berry Meringue Wreath is the perfect festive dessert when I want something light, beautiful, and crowd-pleasing. With its delicate texture and fresh, vibrant toppings, it always brings the “wow” factor to my holiday table—and it’s easier to make than it looks.