A meringue-based dessert that’s crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, here topped with a tangy lemon curd and fresh fruit. Making pavlova can be a bit tricky, as the meringue needs to be cooked just right to achieve the perfect texture. But with a little practice, anyone can learn to make this delicious dessert!
This dessert is perfect for any occasion but my favourite time to make them is for spring or Easter gatherings. Here’s why:
- Light and Refreshing: After a hearty meal, pavlova offers a refreshing contrast with its delicate meringue base and fresh fruit toppings. Its light texture and fruity flavors are reminiscent of the crisp spring air, making it a delightful finale to any springtime feast.
- Show-Stopping Presentation: Pavlova’s elegant appearance makes it a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table. With its crisp exterior and soft, marshmallow-like interior, pavlova is sure to impress your guests with its rustic charm and whimsical appeal.
- Versatile Toppings: One of the best things about pavlova is its versatility when it comes to toppings. From vibrant berries to tangy citrus curd, you can customize your pavlova to suit the season’s bounty. For Easter, adorn your pavlova with pastel-colored fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi for a festive touch.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Planning a springtime gathering can be hectic, but pavlova makes entertaining a breeze. The meringue base can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container until ready to assemble. Simply add the toppings just before serving for a stress-free dessert option.
Here are the top tips for making this recipe:
- Use room temperature egg whites: Cold egg whites take longer to whip and may not achieve the desired volume.
- Gradually add sugar: Adding the sugar slowly ensures a stable meringue with a smooth texture.
- Avoid overmixing: Gently fold in the cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract to maintain the meringue’s airy texture.
- Let the pavlovas cool in the oven: Cooling the pavlovas slowly helps prevent them from collapsing or cracking.
- Make the lemon curd ahead of time: Lemon curd can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Equipment you may need to make this recipe:
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Sifter or Fine-Mesh Strainer
- Silicone Spatula
- Baking Sheets
- Cooling Rack
Mini Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert that's crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, here topped with a tangy lemon curd and fresh fruit. Making pavlova can be a bit tricky, as the meringue needs to be cooked just right to achieve the perfect texture. But with a little practice, anyone can learn to make this delicious dessert!
Ingredients
Pavlova:
- 4 egg whites
- 200 g sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Lemon Curd:
- 4 egg yolks
- 130 g sugar
- 1 lemon zest & juice
- pinch of salt
- 85 g butter
- Fresh fruit
Instructions
Pavlova:
- Preheat oven to 225°F (105°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl beat the egg whites until foamy. Slowly add in the sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in the cornstarch and lemon juice until just combined.
- Spoon a 3 inch wide mound onto the parchment paper and indent the center with the spoon to allow room for the filling. Repeat for the rest of the pavlovas.
- Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. In the mean time, make the lemon curd.
- Turn the oven off and let the meringue sit in the oven to cool (about 30 minutes).
- Place the meringues on a cooling rack until ready to be assembled.
Lemon Curd:
- Whisk together the egg yolks and sugar. Then mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.
- Place the mixture on top of a double boiler. Constantly whisk until it becomes thick (about 10 minutes).
- Remove from the heat. Whisk in the butter until melted and well combined.
- Pour the curd into a bowl and place a piece of plastic wrap on top, directly touching the top layer to prevent a film from forming. Allow to cool completely.
Assemble:
- Top each mini pavlova with a heaping spoonful of lemon curd and fresh fruit of your choice!