Pavlova with Fresh Fruit and Whipped Cream
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Ingredients
For the Meringue:
4 large egg whites, room temperature
½ teaspoon cream of tartar
1 pinch salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup superfine sugar (225g)
1½ teaspoon cornstarch
For the Topping:
1½ cups heavy whipping cream (360ml)
¼ cup powdered sugar (30g)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 cups fresh fruit (blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, sliced strawberries, etc.)
Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meringue
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Draw a 9-inch (23 cm) circle on the parchment as a guide for the meringue.
Whisk the Egg Whites:
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until they start to froth. Add the cream of tartar, salt, and vanilla extract, and continue beating until soft peaks form.
Add Sugar Gradually:
With the mixer on high speed, gradually add the superfine sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Beat until the meringue becomes glossy and stiff peaks form. This should take about 5 minutes.
Incorporate Cornstarch:
Sift the cornstarch over the meringue and gently fold it in with a spatula. This will help stabilize the meringue.
Shape the Meringue:
Spoon the meringue onto the prepared parchment paper within the circle you drew. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the sides and create a slight well in the center, forming a nest shape.
Bake the Meringue:
Bake the meringue in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the outside is crisp and the inside is marshmallow-like. Turn off the oven and let the meringue cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar.
Step 2: Prepare the Topping
Whip the Cream:
In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Pavlova:
Once the meringue has cooled completely, transfer it carefully to a serving platter. Spoon the whipped cream into the center, spreading it gently toward the edges.
Top with Fresh Fruit:
Arrange the fresh fruit on top of the whipped cream. You can use a variety of fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, and sliced strawberries for color and flavor.
Garnish (Optional):
If desired, garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added touch of freshness and color.
