Description
Berry Pavlova is a light and elegant dessert with a crispy meringue shell, filled with whipped cream and topped with fresh berries. This treat balances crunchy, creamy, and fruity textures beautifully.
Ingredients
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup raspberries
1/2 cup blueberries
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a 9-inch circle on the paper to guide the meringue shape.
- Whip the Egg Whites: Beat the egg whites in a clean mixing bowl on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
- Add Vanilla, Vinegar, and Cornstarch: Gently fold in vanilla extract, vinegar, and cornstarch to stabilize the meringue.
- Shape the Meringue: Spoon the meringue mixture onto the parchment circle, smoothing the top and sides, and creating a well in the center.
- Bake the Meringue: Bake the meringue for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry. Turn off the oven and let it cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar.
- Whip the Cream: Beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Prepare the Berries: Hull and slice strawberries, and combine them with raspberries and blueberries. Optionally drizzle with honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Assemble the Pavlova: Once the meringue has cooled, place it on a platter. Spoon whipped cream into the center, spreading it evenly, and top with berries.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh mint leaves and extra berries. Serve immediately or chill for 1-2 hours.
Notes
- Store the meringue base in an airtight container for up to 2 days before topping it with whipped cream and berries.
- Feel free to substitute other fruits, like kiwi or pomegranate, for the topping.
- If making ahead, add the whipped cream and berries just before serving to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 1/2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg