Ingredients
Meringue
- 6 egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups granulated or caster sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 3 teaspoons cornflour (cornstarch)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
Topping
- 1 cup cream, for whipping
- Strawberries or other fresh berries, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking tray: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and draw a 7-8 inch circle to use as a guide for shaping the meringue.
- Beat the egg whites: In a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar 1 tablespoon at a time, continuing to beat until the meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form.
- Add stabilizers and flavor: Gently fold in the cornflour, vinegar, and vanilla essence with a spatula to maintain the meringue’s volume and structure.
- Shape the meringue: Spoon the meringue onto the prepared parchment paper, using the guide circle. Shape into a round with slightly higher edges to create a shallow well in the center for the toppings.
- Bake the meringue: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 1 hour 15 minutes until the meringue is firm to the touch. Then turn off the oven and leave the meringue inside to cool completely with the door slightly ajar—this prevents cracking and maintains the texture.
- Prepare the topping: Whip the cream until soft peaks form. Do not over whip to avoid curdling.
- Assemble the Pavlova: Once the meringue is completely cooled, place it on a serving plate. Gently spread the whipped cream in the center and top generously with fresh strawberries or berries of your choice.
- Serve: Serve immediately or keep refrigerated for up to 6 hours before serving to ensure freshness.
Notes
- Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whisking.
- Gradually add sugar to avoid a grainy meringue texture.
- Allow meringue to cool slowly in the oven to prevent cracks.
- Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and presentation.
- This dessert is best served the same day to enjoy the crispy texture of the meringue.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian/New Zealand
- Diet: Gluten Free
