Pavlova Delight

Pavlova Delight is a delicious meringue dessert that combines a crisp, delicate outer shell with a soft, marshmallow-like interior. Named after a renowned ballerina, this treat is elegant and light, perfect for any celebration or get-together. The meringue is created by expertly whipping egg whites with sugar until glossy peaks form, with a touch of lemon juice added for stability. Once baked to perfection, the Pavlova is topped with freshly whipped cream and a colorful array of tart berries or exotic fruits. The contrast between the sweet meringue, creamy filling, and juicy fruits creates a mouth-watering harmony of flavors and textures. While traditionally paired with kiwifruit, you can customize your Pavlova with local berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. This dessert not only tantalizes the taste buds but also makes an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering. With the right technique and a little patience, you can master the art of Pavlova and impress your family and friends with a dessert that's both visually stunning and delectable.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

150 g egg whites (at room temperature)
135 g granulated sugar
135 g powdered sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch (no heap)
1/2 tbsp lemon juice
1 pinch of salt
Vanilla essence

For the Filling

Whipping cream
Vanilla essence
Assorted berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)

Preparation Time

Total: 110 minutes (Preparation + Cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Measure the egg whites and let them sit at room temperature in a clean bowl.
Begin to whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt. Start on a slow speed and gradually increase to medium when bubbles form around the edges.
Once light foams form, gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to whip until shiny, firm peaks, known as soft peaks, appear. Avoid over-whipping to prevent collapse during baking.
Carefully fold in lemon juice, vanilla essence, sifted powdered sugar, and cornstarch into the egg white mixture using a spatula.
Shape the meringue (Pavlova mixture) onto a baking tray either by spooning or using a piping bag, creating a small indentation in the center.
Preheat your oven to 150°C. Insert the tray, immediately reduce temperature to 100°C. Bake small Pavlovas for about 50 minutes. For a large cake, bake for at least 90 minutes. Keep oven door shut during baking.
Test the doneness by tapping the underside of the Pavlova; a firm exterior and hollow sound indicate readiness.
Upon breaking, the inner part should reveal a soft, marshmallow-like texture.
Prepare the filling just before serving by whipping cream, adding vanilla essence.
Top the Pavlova with whipped cream and a selection of fruits like maracuja, mango, or local berries. Exotic fillings bring an extra twist.
Add cream cheese to the whipped cream for a firmer texture if needed or create a custard cream for variety.

Tips

Room Temperature: Always use room temperature egg whites for better volume.
Avoid Overwhipping: Stop whipping as soon as stiff peaks form to prevent meringue collapse.
Baking Strategy: Different ovens may require slight temperature adjustments; observe closely.
Fruit Selection: Try seasonal fruits for different tastes and refreshing alternatives.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
Protein: 3g
Fats: 10g
Carbs: 50g

Variations

For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of whipped cream.
Seasonal fruits can be used to match the current time of year and availability.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with dessert wine or champagne for a celebration.
Garnish with mint leaves for added aroma and color contrast.

Best Places

The Pavlova Palace - A dessert haven offering diverse interpretations of classic Pavlova. Location: 123 Meringue Lane, Wellington, New Zealand
Sweet Symphony - Known for its creative and exotic Pavlova toppings. Location: 456 Dessert St, Melbourne, Australia
Berry Bliss Café - Offering a mixed berry version of Pavlova. Location: 789 Fruit Ave, London, UK
Floaty Layers - Famous for their light and airy signature Pavlovas. Location: 1010 Delicate Rd, Paris, France
Meringue Masters - A bakery specializing in various meringue desserts including Pavlova. Location: 111 Cloud Blvd, New York, USA
Heavenly Bites - Offers Pavlovas with a twist of local herbs and spices. Location: 121 Culinary Rd, Cape Town, South Africa
Tropical Treats - Known for tropical fruit-filled Pavlovas. Location: 131 Paradise St, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
Fruity Flair - Featuring Pavlovas topped with local orchard finds. Location: 141 Orchard Rd, Toronto, Canada
Balletic Bakes - Embracing the dance-inspired elegance in each Pavlova. Location: 151 Graceful Ave, Sydney, Australia
Creamy Clouds - Combining smooth fillings with crisp meringue. Location: 161 Cotton Candy Ln, Auckland, New Zealand