There’s just something about the warm, inviting scent of lemon that fills the kitchen with a sense of home. As the gentle brightness of sun-kissed lemons dances through the air, memories of gathering around the table with family come flooding back. Each slice of this delightful Lemon Cream Wreath holds a sprinkle of nostalgia, inviting you to cozy up and enjoy life’s simplest pleasures.
Why make this recipe? Well, sweet friends, this wreath isn’t just a treat; it’s a celebration of life’s little moments. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon tea, a special birthday gathering, or simply a weekend spent with loved ones, there’s nothing quite like sharing a creation made with love. With layers of luscious cream and zesty lemon curd, this dessert wraps around your heart just as it wraps around the beautiful wooden platter it rests upon.
How to make Lemon Cream Wreath
Ingredients:
- 2 x 450g pkts madeira cake
- 250ml thickened cream
- 80ml double cream
- 350g jar lemon curd
- 2 x 100g pkts lemon meringue kisses
- 4 passionfruit, halved
- Icing sugar mixture, to dust
Directions:
To begin this delightful journey, you’ll want to slice that madeira cake into beautiful, 1cm thick discs. Use a 3.5cm round cutter to create two charming little disks from each slice, setting the stage for your wreath. Now, grab your electric beaters, and let them work their magic on the thickened cream and double cream in a bowl until you see those firm peaks forming; oh, the sound of happiness!
Next, we embrace the sunshine of the lemon curd. In lovely batches, fold it into your whipped cream, creating a mesmerizing ripple effect that could make anyone smile. Now, take this dreamy mixture and tuck it into a large piping bag fitted with a 1cm round nozzle; I always giggle because it makes everything feel like a sweet masterpiece.
Arrange those madeira discs in a lovely wreath shape on your grand serving platter. Pipe a dollop of lemon cream on each delightful disc, then fill in the gaps with the remaining lemon cream until the wreath is snugly and beautifully covered. Now, it’s time for the pièce de résistance: top the luscious lemon cream with the meringue kisses and let the passionfruit pulp drizzle down, bursting with flavor. Don’t forget to dust the entire creation with icing sugar, making it sparkle like morning dew.
How to serve Lemon Cream Wreath?
Serve your Lemon Cream Wreath with a warm cup of tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade. It’s a showstopper that sparks conversation and laughter around the table. Everyone will gather, eager to taste a bit of sunshine wrapped in a cloud of cream. Just watch those eyes light up!
How to store Lemon Cream Wreath?
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my kitchen!), simply cover the wreath carefully and place it in the refrigerator. Be sure to enjoy it within a couple of days, as the warm kiss of the Madeira will soften, but it still tastes delightful. Remember, good things are meant to be savored.
Tips to make Lemon Cream Wreath:
- For an extra tangy kick, add a splash of lemon juice to the whipping cream while beating it.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating fresh berries between the layers for added color and flavor.
- Make sure the serving platter is chilled; it helps keep your wreath intact and fresh throughout your gathering.
Variations:
Feel free to swap the passionfruit for other fruits like fresh strawberries or blueberries for delightful flavors that suit the season. In the spirit of Southern charm, you might even add a few mint leaves for a touch of elegance.
FAQs:
-
Can I make the wreath ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the lemon cream and arrange the wreath the night before. Add the meringue kisses on the day you plan to serve it to keep them crispy. -
What can I serve with the Lemon Cream Wreath?
It pairs wonderfully with a cup of Earl Grey or a refreshing iced tea. You could also serve it alongside a simple fruit salad for a lovely brunch spread. -
What if I don’t have Madeira cake?
No worries! You can substitute it with sponge cake or even ladyfingers, and the taste will still be heavenly!
Now, darling, as you gather your ingredients and start crafting this cherished family tradition, remember that food has a magical way of bringing hearts together. So pour yourself a cup of tea, roll up those sleeves, and enjoy the sweetness of creating memories that linger long after the last slice has been savored. Let this Lemon Cream Wreath become a little piece of your home that envelops your loved ones with warmth and joy. Happy baking!
Lemon Cream Wreath
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the madeira cake into 1cm thick discs.
- Using a 3.5cm round cutter, create two disks from each slice of cake.
- In a bowl, whip the thickened cream and double cream using electric beaters until firm peaks form.
- Fold the lemon curd into the whipped cream in batches, creating a ripple effect.
- Fill a large piping bag fitted with a 1cm round nozzle with the lemon cream mixture.
- Arrange the madeira discs in a wreath shape on a serving platter.
- Pipe a dollop of lemon cream on each disc and fill in the gaps until covered.
- Top with meringue kisses and drizzle with passionfruit pulp.
- Dust the wreath with icing sugar.