Mandarin Meringue Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

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### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. You can also draw the outline of the pans on the parchment for easy shaping of the meringue.

#### Step 2: Make the Meringue
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar using an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Once soft peaks are formed, gradually add the granulated sugar, about a tablespoon at a time, continuing to beat on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and cornstarch and mix gently to combine.

#### Step 3: Shape the Meringue
Divide the meringue evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, smoothing the tops to create a flat, even surface. You can create slight peaks with the spatula for a decorative touch.

#### Step 4: Bake the Meringue
Place the pans in the oven and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meringue layers are firm and dry to the touch. The meringue should be a pale golden color. After baking, turn off the oven and let the meringue cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This will help prevent cracking as it cools.

#### Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
While the meringue cools, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and continue to mix. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and well combined.

#### Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Once the meringue layers are completely cool, carefully remove them from the cake pans. Place one meringue layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese filling on top. Arrange a layer of mandarin orange segments over the cream cheese filling.

Place the second meringue layer on top and gently press it down. If desired, garnish with extra mandarin slices on top of the cake.

#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the assembled cake rest for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving. Slice carefully with a serrated knife to avoid crushing the meringue.

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### Why You’ll Love This Cake:

– **Light and Airy:** The meringue layers are crisp on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside, creating a light and fluffy texture.
– **Tangy and Sweet:** The cream cheese filling brings a tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the meringue and the citrusy freshness of the mandarin oranges.
– **Visually Stunning:** The layers of meringue, cream cheese filling, and vibrant mandarin oranges create a visually striking dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
– **Refreshing and Balanced:** The citrusy mandarin oranges add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the meringue and cream cheese filling, making each bite perfectly balanced.

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### Tips for the Perfect Mandarin Meringue Cake:

– **Don’t Rush the Meringue:** Be sure to beat the egg whites to stiff peaks and add the sugar slowly. This helps create a stable meringue that will hold its shape while baking.
– **Let the Meringue Cool Slowly:** After baking, allow the meringue to cool slowly in the oven to prevent cracking.
– **Whip the Cream Cheese and Cream Separately:** To ensure a smooth filling, be sure to whip the cream cheese and heavy cream separately before folding them together.
– **Use Fresh Mandarins for Extra Flavor:** While canned mandarins work well, fresh mandarins are more flavorful and add an extra burst of freshness.

This Mandarin meringue cake with cream cheese filling is a delightful dessert that will elevate any gathering or celebration. Its unique combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone asking for the recipe!