Description
Learn how to make the perfect Pavlova, a light and airy meringue dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. This gluten-free and vegetarian delight is a classic Australian and New Zealand dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Meringue:
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream and Toppings:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
- 2 cups fresh fruit (such as strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, raspberries)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Draw an 8-inch circle on the parchment as a guide and flip it over.
- Make the meringue: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until glossy and stiff peaks form. Fold in the vinegar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
- Bake the pavlova: Spoon the meringue onto the parchment, shaping it into a circle with a slight indentation in the center. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, then turn off the oven and let the pavlova cool inside with the door slightly ajar.
- Whip the cream: Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Assemble: Top the cooled pavlova with whipped cream and fresh fruit just before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the mixing bowl and beaters are clean and dry for best results.
- The pavlova can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Assemble the pavlova just before serving for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian, New Zealand
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
