Summer Meringue Dessert: A Delightful Seasonal Treat
Overview
Experience the essence of summer in every delightful bite of this Summer Meringue Dessert, a beautifully airy confection that utilizes egg whites and heavy cream, harmoniously combined with the vibrant flavors of summer fruits. This dessert not only highlights the freshness of strawberries and kiwis but also presents an excellent opportunity to utilize any extra egg whites lingering in your kitchen. With its light and fluffy texture, the Summer Meringue Dessert is the perfect centerpiece for gatherings or a sweet end to a warm summer day.
Recipe Details
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Recipe Category: Dessert
- Aggregated Rating: 4.5 (Based on 2 Reviews)
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Element | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 484.2 |
| Total Fat | 22.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 81.5 mg |
| Sodium | 153.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 68.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.7 g |
| Sugars | 60.4 g |
| Protein | 6.1 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 4 cups |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| White Vinegar | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup |
| Strawberries | 2 cups |
| Kiwi Fruits | 2 pieces |
Instructions
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Preheat Your Oven: Begin your culinary adventure by preheating your oven to a gentle 250 degrees Fahrenheit. This low temperature is key to achieving the perfect meringue, ensuring that it dries out slowly without browning too quickly.
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Prepare the Baking Surface: Take a pizza pan measuring between 12 and 14 inches in diameter and lightly coat it with cooking spray. Alternatively, you may opt to grease it with a bit of butter and dust it with flour, shaking off any excess. This preparation will ensure your meringue releases easily once baked.
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Beat the Egg Whites: In a large mixing bowl, using a stand mixer or a hand mixer, beat the egg whites until they reach stiff peaks. This means that when you lift the whisk out of the bowl, the peaks formed by the egg whites will stand tall and firm without drooping.
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Incorporate Sugar and Flavorings: Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until it is fully dissolved and the mixture is glossy. Then, gently fold in the lemon juice, white vinegar, and salt. The vinegar will help stabilize the meringue, resulting in a lighter texture.
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Shape the Meringue: Using a rubber spatula, carefully spread the meringue mixture onto the prepared pizza pan, pushing it up around the edges to create a slight raised border approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide. This will form a delightful nest for the cream and fruit to sit within.
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Bake the Meringue: Place the pan in the preheated oven and allow the meringue to bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. You will know it is done when it is dry to the touch and can be easily lifted from the pan without sticking.
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Cool the Meringue: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the meringue to cool completely. This cooling step is essential, as it allows the meringue to firm up and develop its delightful texture.
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Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream using a mixer until soft peaks form. This fluffy cream will serve as the perfect topping for your meringue.
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Assemble the Dessert: Once the meringue is cool, spread the whipped cream generously over the surface. Then, beautifully arrange the sliced strawberries and kiwi on top, ensuring a colorful presentation. Feel free to mix in other seasonal fruits if desired; berries, peaches, or even raspberries can provide delightful alternatives.
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Add Finishing Touches: For an elegant touch, you might add a small dollop of whipped cream in the center, adorned with a fan of strawberry slices.
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Serve and Enjoy: This exquisite dessert is best enjoyed immediately after assembly while the meringue retains its delightful texture. However, if you have leftovers, refrigerate them and enjoy the next day.
Tips for Success
- Freshness Matters: Use fresh fruits that are in season for the best flavor and presentation.
- Egg Whites: Ensure that no yolk gets into the egg whites, as any fat will prevent them from whipping to the desired volume.
- Make Ahead: The meringue can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container to maintain its crispness.
Conclusion
This Summer Meringue Dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also serves as a beautiful showcase of summer’s bounty, offering a refreshing and delightful end to any meal. Its light and airy texture paired with the creamy richness of whipped cream and the vibrant burst of seasonal fruits make it a perennial favorite. Share this dessert with family and friends, and watch as they fall in love with this elegant yet simple treat, perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, and special occasions alike. Enjoy the indulgent flavors and the beautiful presentation that are sure to impress!
By following this detailed recipe, you will create a visually stunning and delicious dessert that is sure to become a cherished addition to your summer dining repertoire.
