Mini Pavlovas Recipe

Mini Pavlovas Recipe

Delicate, crisp meringue shells with a marshmallow-like center, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, make these mini Pavlovas a show-stopping dessert.

Ingredients

For the Meringue:

• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1 cup (200g) superfine sugar (caster sugar)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (cornflour)
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (double cream), chilled
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
• Fresh fruit: berries, kiwi slices, passionfruit, mango, or any seasonal fruit
• Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
   • Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Draw 8-10 circles (about 3 inches/8 cm in diameter) as a guide, then flip the parchment paper over.
2. Make the Meringue:
   • In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue beating until the meringue is thick, glossy, and holds stiff peaks. This may take 5-7 minutes.
   • Sift the cornstarch over the meringue, then gently fold it in along with the vinegar and vanilla extract.
3. Shape the Pavlovas:
   • Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, using the drawn circles as a guide. Create a small indentation in the center of each mound with the back of a spoon to hold the toppings later.
4. Bake:
   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour.
   • Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside the oven (this helps prevent cracking).
5. Prepare the Whipped Cream:
   • In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract (if using) until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
6. Assemble the Mini Pavlovas:
   • Once the meringues are completely cool, top each one with a dollop of whipped cream.
   • Arrange fresh fruit on top and garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Storage: The meringue shells can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Assemble with cream and fruit just before serving.
• Flavor Twist: Add a swirl of lemon curd, passionfruit pulp, or chocolate ganache on top of the whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free version.

Mini Pavlovas are perfect for any celebration, offering individual portions of sweetness and elegance. Enjoy!