Pin this A festive winter dessert featuring tart cranberries and sweet pears baked beneath a fluffy meringue, evoking a snowy landscape with bright, seasonal flavors.
This recipe brings back fond memories of cozy winter evenings spent baking with family and enjoying warm dessert together.
Ingredients
- Fruit Filling: 3 ripe pears peeled cored and diced, 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries, ½ cup granulated sugar, 2 tbsp orange juice, 1 tsp orange zest, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Meringue Topping: 3 large egg whites room temperature, ¼ tsp cream of tartar, ¼ tsp salt, ½ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round baking dish or similar casserole dish.
- Mix Fruit Filling:
- In a large bowl combine the diced pears cranberries sugar orange juice orange zest vanilla extract and cornstarch. Mix gently until the fruit is well coated.
- Bake Fruit:
- Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared baking dish spreading it into an even layer. Bake the fruit filling for 20 minutes until the fruit starts to soften and release juices. Remove from oven.
- Prepare Meringue:
- While the fruit bakes prepare the meringue In a clean dry bowl beat the egg whites with cream of tartar and salt using an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Add Sugar:
- Gradually add the sugar a tablespoon at a time while continuing to beat on high speed until stiff glossy peaks form.
- Top With Meringue:
- Spoon or pipe the meringue over the hot fruit creating decorative peaks to resemble a snowy landscape.
- Bake Again:
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the meringue is lightly golden.
- Serve:
- Let cool slightly Serve warm or at room temperature.
Pin this Enjoyed by the whole family especially during holiday gatherings where everyone looks forward to this comforting dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
Dietary Variations
For a vegan version use aquafaba (chickpea brine) in place of egg whites.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Pin this This delightful dessert perfectly captures the essence of winter with each bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve fluffy meringue peaks?
Beat egg whites with cream of tartar and salt until soft peaks form, then gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks develop.
- → Can I substitute other fruits for pears?
Yes, apples work well as a substitute, maintaining the dessert's balance of tartness and sweetness.
- → What baking dish size is recommended?
A 9-inch round baking dish or similar casserole works best for even cooking and meringue coverage.
- → How can I add extra warmth to the flavor?
Incorporate a pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger into the fruit filling for a cozy touch.
- → Is there a vegan alternative for the meringue topping?
Yes, aquafaba (chickpea brine) can be used in place of egg whites to create a vegan meringue.