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Pavlova Recipe

Pavlova is a light and elegant dessert made with a crisp meringue shell and a soft, marshmallow like center. It’s topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, making it perfect for special occasions or summer gatherings. Named after the ballerina Anna Pavlova, this dessert is as graceful and airy as its namesake.
Print Recipe
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 35 minutes

Equipment

  • Electric mixer (stand or hand)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients

  • For the Meringue:
  • 4 large egg whites room temperature
  • 1 cup 200 g granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp white vinegar or lemon juice
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • For the Topping:
  • 1 cup 240 ml heavy cream, chilled
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Fresh fruit kiwi, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, passionfruit, etc.

Instructions

  • Preheat and Prep:
  • Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Draw an 8-inch circle on the paper as a guide, then flip it over so the pencil side is down.
  • Make the Meringue:
  • In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
  • Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat until glossy stiff peaks form (about 7–8 minutes).
  • Add vinegar (or lemon juice), cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Beat gently until just combined.
  • Shape the Pavlova:
  • Spoon the meringue onto the parchment circle, spreading it out and creating a slight indentation in the center for the toppings.
  • Bake:
  • Place in the oven and immediately reduce temperature to 225°F (110°C).
  • Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes until crisp and dry on the outside.
  • Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the Pavlova cool completely inside the oven to prevent cracking.
  • Make the Whipped Cream:
  • Beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
  • Assemble and Serve:
  • Just before serving, spread whipped cream over the cooled meringue.
  • Top with fresh fruit and serve immediately.
Servings: 8 servings