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classic Pavlova recipe

Pavlova is a light and airy dessert featuring a crisp meringue shell with a marshmallow-soft center, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. This elegant yet simple dessert is perfect for celebrations or any occasion that calls for a fresh and impressive sweet treat. Its delicate texture and vibrant toppings make it a favorite worldwide.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Australian, New Zealand, International
Servings 6
Calories 249 kcal

Equipment

  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) superfine sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
  • Fresh fruits for topping (strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, passionfruit, etc.)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a 7-inch circle as a guide.
  • Whip egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until soft peaks form.
  • Gradually add superfine sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  • Gently fold in cornstarch and vinegar/lemon juice until just combined.
  • Spoon the mixture onto the parchment paper, shaping it into a circle with slightly higher edges to form a shallow well.
  • Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside to cool completely, at least 1 hour or overnight.
  • Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
  • Just before serving, top the cooled pavlova with whipped cream and arrange fresh fruit on top.

Notes

  • Use room temperature egg whites for best volume when whipping.
  • Superfine sugar dissolves better in the egg whites, helping avoid grainy texture.
  • Cornstarch and vinegar stabilize the meringue and help create the marshmallow-like center.
  • Do not open the oven door during baking to prevent cracking.
  • Assemble pavlova just before serving to keep the crust crisp.
  • Experiment with different fruits and flavor twists like cocoa powder or citrus zest for variety.
Keyword classic pavlova, easy pavlova, fruit pavlova, gluten-free dessert, Holiday desserts, meringue dessert, Pavlova recipe