Best Pavlova
A delightful meringue dessert with a crispy shell and topped with fresh cream and berries, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Meringue Ingredients
- 6 pieces egg whites (at room temperature)
- 1.5 cups granulated/caster sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- 3 tsp cornflour/cornstarch
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup cream (for whipping)
- 1 cup strawberries or other fresh berries (for serving)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 300F/150C.
- Soak a paper towel in a little white vinegar and wipe out the bowl and whisk attachment to ensure they are clean.
- Whisk the egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, whisking for about 1 minute after each addition until fully dissolved.
- After all sugar has been added, whisk on high for 3 minutes until thick and glossy.
- Combine cornflour/cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla essence in a small bowl, then add to the meringue and whisk until just combined.
- Line a 12" round pizza tray with baking paper and scoop out the meringue mixture, forming a circle roughly 8-9" in diameter.
- Shape the pavlova with a spatula, creating neat lines.
Baking
- Reduce the oven temperature to 250F/120C and place the pavlova in the oven.
- Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes until lightly browned and dry.
- Turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside with the door closed for 3 hours to cool down.
Serving
- Whip the cream and gently spoon it into the center of the pavlova.
- Top with fresh berries.
Notes
Best served the same day it is made. Can be topped with honey or lemon juice for extra flavor. Store in a cool, dry place covered loosely, for up to 1 day.