Christmas Pavlova

Directions

• Preheat oven to 250°. Place egg whites in a large bowl; let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Draw a 9-in. circle on parchment paper. Invert paper and place on a baking sheet; set aside.
• Add cornstarch, vinegar, vanilla and salt to egg whites; beat on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high until stiff glossy peaks form and sugar is dissolved. Gently fold in 2 tablespoons sprinkles.
• Mound egg whites within circle marked on parchment, forming a shallow well in the center. With a wide spatula or large spoon, swipe up from the bottom around the outside to create smooth sides. Sprinkle outside with remaining 2 tablespoons sprinkles. Bake until set and dry, 45-50 minutes. Turn off oven (do not open oven door); leave meringue in oven 1 hour.
• Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, combine cranberries, 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar, orange liqueur, orange juice and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until berries pop and mixture thickens slightly, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat; cool completely.
• In a large bowl, beat cream until it begins to thicken. Add remaining 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar; beat until soft peaks form. Fold half the whipped cream into cranberry mixture.
• Place pavlova on a serving plate. If center has not already collapsed, gently press center with a large spoon to open cavity inside. Gently add cranberry mixture, spreading into corners. Spoon remaining whipped cream on top of cranberry mixture; top with remaining 1 tablespoon sprinkles. Refrigerate leftovers.