Ingredients
Meringue
- 7 oz (about 7 large) egg whites, room temperature
- 2 cups sugar, divided
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 3.5 oz dark chocolate, melted
Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup sugar
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup whipping cream
- 1 tsp sea salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup whipping cream
- Honey-roasted peanuts, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 212°F (100°C). Line baking trays with parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
- Make the Meringue: In a stand mixer, combine the egg whites and 1 3/4 cups of sugar. Whisk on low speed (setting 2) for about 5 minutes until small bubbles form. Then increase to high speed and continue whisking. Gradually add the cornstarch and white vinegar while mixing.
- Finish the Meringue: While continuing to whisk on high, slowly add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar a tablespoon at a time until the meringue becomes firm and stiff with glossy peaks.
- Incorporate Chocolate: Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the meringue mixture. Gently fold the chocolate in with a spatula so that streaks remain. Spoon large dollops of the meringue onto the prepared trays. Repeat folding and scooping until all mixture is used, maintaining a rustic swirled effect.
- Bake: Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for about 2 hours until meringues are dry and can be easily lifted off the parchment paper without sticking. Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside for best texture.
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a medium pan over medium heat, melt 1 cup sugar, stirring gently until it turns a deep golden brown caramel. Carefully add the butter pieces, stirring constantly as the mixture bubbles vigorously. Gradually pour in the 1/2 cup whipping cream, continuing to stir carefully to avoid splatters. Stir in the sea salt and set aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Pavlovas: Whip the remaining 1/2 cup whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Dollop whipped cream generously onto each cooled chocolate pavlova. Drizzle with the salted caramel sauce and sprinkle honey-roasted peanuts on top for a delightful crunch.
Notes
- Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better aeration and volume in the meringue.
- Use a gentle folding technique when incorporating the chocolate to retain the meringue’s airy texture.
- Baking at a low temperature for an extended time helps dry the meringues without browning them.
- Store assembled pavlovas in the refrigerator and serve within a few hours for optimal crispness and freshness.
- Honey-roasted peanuts add a lovely texture contrast but can be substituted with toasted nuts of choice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian/New Zealand