Cranberry and Pear Snowscape

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 cozy winter memories with every bite, perfect for holiday gatherings.

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

Step 1:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) Lightly grease a 9-inch round baking dish or similar casserole dish

Step 2:

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

Step 3:

Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer

Step 4:

Bake the fruit filling for 20 minutes, until the fruit starts to soften and release juices Remove from oven

Step 5:

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

Step 6:

Gradually add the sugar, a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed, until stiff, glossy peaks form

Step 7:

Spoon or pipe the meringue over the hot fruit, creating decorative peaks to resemble a snowy landscape

Step 8:

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden

Step 9:

Let cool slightly Serve warm or at room temperature

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This dessert always brings the family together, especially during chilly winter evenings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch

Vegan Version

For a vegan version, use aquafaba (chickpea brine) in place of egg whites

Allergen Information

Contains eggs Check cornstarch and vanilla extract labels for gluten or other allergens if sensitive

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Enjoy this festive dessert warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What fruits are used in this dish?

Ripe pears and fresh or frozen cranberries combine to create a flavorful filling.

→ How is the meringue topping prepared?

Egg whites are whipped with cream of tartar, salt, and sugar until stiff, glossy peaks form, then spread over the warm fruit before baking.

→ Can the pears be substituted?

Yes, apples can be used instead of pears for a slightly different flavor and texture.

→ What optional spices can enhance the flavor?

A pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger can be added to the fruit filling for extra warmth and complexity.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for the meringue?

Aquafaba, the chickpea brine, can replace egg whites to create a vegan-friendly meringue topping.

→ How should this dish be served?

Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added richness.