Description
A stunning and delicious dessert perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 large egg whites
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- Edible gold or silver pearls
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Edible star decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Meringue: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed until the meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the vinegar, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until well combined.
- Shape the Meringues: On one parchment-lined tray, spread or pipe the meringue into one large circle about 8 inches in diameter for the base layer. On the second tray, form two smaller circles (6 inches and 4 inches) for the middle and top layers.
- Bake: Place the trays in the oven and bake for about 1.5 hours. The meringues should be crisp to the touch but still pale in color. Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside to prevent cracking.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Assemble the Pavlova Tower: Place the largest meringue disc on a serving platter. Spread a layer of whipped cream on it and scatter with strawberry halves. Repeat with the remaining meringue layers, stacking them carefully, and decorate with more whipped cream and strawberries. Sprinkle with edible gold or silver pearls. Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. Top the tower with the edible star decoration.
Notes
- Be sure to separate the egg whites carefully to avoid any yolk, which can prevent the meringue from whipping properly.
- Ensure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry before making the meringue.
- For a colorful twist, use a variety of berries or seasonal fruits.
- Store the Pavlova in a cool, dry place and assemble just before serving to keep the meringue crisp.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg