Pavlova Recipe with Strawberries
Pavlova, a timeless dessert that graces any celebration, offers a stunning balance of crispy, airy meringue and rich, velvety mascarpone cheese topped with a luscious strawberry compote. This pavlova recipe is sure to become your go-to showstopper for gatherings, parties, or whenever you crave a delightful, egg-based dessert. The meringue shell, crisped to perfection, contrasts beautifully with the creamy mascarpone and sweet-tart strawberry compote, creating a dessert that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Egg whites | 4 |
| Caster sugar (superfine) | 1 cup |
| Corn flour | 3 teaspoons |
| Vinegar | 1 teaspoon |
| Mascarpone cheese (whipped) | 250 grams |
| Strawberry compote | To serve |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Sugars | 25g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 50mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
Preparation Time
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 80 minutes |
| Total Time | 110 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Meringue:
Begin by preheating your oven to 150°C (300°F). Make sure your stand mixer and whisk are impeccably clean, as any residue can prevent the egg whites from forming stiff peaks. Place the egg whites in the bowl of your stand mixer. -
Whisk the Egg Whites:
Beat the egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form. Once the peaks begin to form, slowly add the superfine caster sugar, a tablespoon at a time, ensuring it fully dissolves each time before adding the next. Continue whisking until the egg whites turn glossy and hold stiff peaks. The mixture should appear smooth and shiny. -
Incorporate Corn Flour and Vinegar:
Gradually sift in the corn flour and add the vinegar. At this stage, gently fold the ingredients in with a spatula to maintain the lightness of the meringue. -
Shape the Meringue:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a large ladle or spoon, spoon the meringue mixture onto the paper, shaping it into a round disk about 6 inches in diameter. Use the back of the spoon to smooth the top and edges, creating a slight dip in the center to hold the mascarpone cheese later. -
Bake the Meringue:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 120°C (250°F). Bake for 1 hour. Do not open the oven door during baking to avoid collapsing the meringue. -
Cool the Meringue:
After 1 hour, turn off the oven and leave the meringue inside to cool completely with the oven door closed. This step allows the meringue to continue drying with the residual heat, ensuring it becomes crisp without cracking. -
Whip the Mascarpone Cheese:
Once the meringue has cooled, prepare the mascarpone cheese by whipping it in a separate bowl. You can add a small amount of sugar, if desired, to sweeten the mascarpone to taste. Whip until it becomes light and fluffy. -
Assemble the Pavlova:
When ready to serve, gently lift the meringue from the parchment paper and place it on a serving platter. Spoon the whipped mascarpone cheese onto the center of the meringue, spreading it evenly but leaving a slight border around the edges. -
Top with Strawberry Compote:
Finally, top the mascarpone layer with the strawberry compote. You can either make your own compote or use store-bought for convenience. Arrange the strawberries decoratively to enhance the visual appeal. -
Serve:
Serve the pavlova immediately for a fresh, light dessert, or refrigerate it until ready to enjoy. This dessert is best enjoyed the same day it is made, as the meringue may soften over time.
Tips for Perfect Pavlova:
- Ensure that no yolk is mixed with the egg whites, as fat from the yolk can prevent the egg whites from reaching their full volume.
- When whipping the mascarpone, be careful not to overwhip, as it can turn grainy.
- If you want to add a different twist, you can swap the strawberry compote for a mix of fresh berries or a berry coulis for added color and variety.
This pavlova recipe with strawberries is an indulgent yet light dessert perfect for any occasion. The contrast of textures—crisp, airy meringue, creamy mascarpone, and sweet compote—will surely impress your guests and elevate your dessert table. Enjoy this exquisite treat with a cup of tea or as the grand finale to a celebratory meal!
