Ingredients
Meringue
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Topping
- Fresh whipped cream (quantity as desired for topping)
- Fresh mixed berries: raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries (quantity as desired)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking sheet. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Draw a 9-inch circle on the parchment paper as a guide for the pavlova shape, and flip the paper so the pencil marks are underneath.
- Beat the egg whites. In a clean, dry bowl, begin beating the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Add sugar gradually. Increase the mixer speed to high and slowly add the granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form.
- Fold in flavorings. Gently fold in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and cornstarch with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the meringue.
- Shape the meringue wreath. Spoon the meringue onto the parchment paper within the drawn circle and carefully spread it into a ring shape, creating a well in the center for the toppings.
- Bake the meringue. Place the meringue in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes until crisp on the outside. Then turn off the oven and leave the meringue inside for another hour to dry and cool completely.
- Prepare for serving. Once cooled, transfer the meringue wreath to a serving plate. Top with fresh whipped cream spread evenly over the meringue, then decorate with the fresh mixed berries and optional mint leaves for garnish.
Notes
- Ensure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease for best egg white volume.
- Add sugar gradually to ensure the meringue becomes glossy and stable.
- Use fresh eggs for the best meringue texture.
- The cornstarch and lemon juice help stabilize the meringue and create the characteristic chewy interior.
- Baking at low heat and then letting the meringue dry in the turned-off oven prevents cracking and maintains crispness.
- Serve immediately after assembling for best texture, although the meringue base can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian/New Zealand
- Diet: Gluten Free