Discover the ultimate Pavlova recipe, a light and crispy meringue-based dessert topped with fresh fruit and luscious whipped cream. Ideal for any occasion, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. Learn how to create this elegant treat with step-by-step instructions and tips for perfecting your Pavlova every time.

Ingredients:

- 4 large egg whites

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon cornstarch

- 1 teaspoon white vinegar

- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

- Fresh fruit (such as strawberries, kiwi, and berries) for topping

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw an 8-inch circle on the paper as a guide for shaping the meringue.

Prepare Meringue: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form.

Add Cornstarch and Vinegar: Gently fold in the cornstarch, white vinegar, and vanilla extract. The cornstarch helps stabilize the meringue, and the vinegar adds a touch of tanginess.

Shape Meringue: Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared parchment paper, using the circle guide as a reference. Smooth the edges and create a slight well in the center to hold the toppings later.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meringue is crisp and dry to the touch. Turn off the oven and leave the meringue inside to cool completely, preferably overnight.

Prepare Whipped Cream: In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

Assemble Pavlova: Once the meringue is completely cool, carefully transfer it to a serving plate. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top, then arrange the fresh fruit on top.

Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Pavlova!

Nutritional Values

4 Large Egg Whites

  - Calories: 52

  - Carbohydrates: 0.7g

  - Protein: 11g

  - Fat: 0.2g

Benefits:

  - High in protein with minimal fat and calories.

  - Supports muscle repair and growth.

  - Low in carbohydrates.

1 Cup Granulated Sugar

  - Calories: 387

  - Carbohydrates: 100g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Provides sweetness and energy.

  - Adds texture to the meringue.

1 Teaspoon Cornstarch

  - Calories: 381

  - Carbohydrates: 91g

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0.1g

Benefits:

  - Used as a thickening agent in recipes.

  - Provides texture and stability to the meringue.

1 Teaspoon White Vinegar

  - Calories: 21

  - Carbohydrates: 0.9g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Helps stabilize egg whites during whipping.

  - Adds a slight tangy flavor to the meringue.

1/2 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract

  - Calories: 288

  - Carbohydrates: 12g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.

  - Contains antioxidants and can enhance the overall taste.

1 Cup Heavy Cream

  - Calories: 340

  - Carbohydrates: 2.9g

  - Protein: 2.1g

  - Fat: 36g

Benefits:

  - Adds a rich, creamy texture to desserts.

  - Provides essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins.

2 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar

  - Calories: 389

  - Carbohydrates: 100g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Adds sweetness and enhances flavor.

  - Dissolves quickly, making it ideal for whipping cream.

Fresh Fruit (Such as Strawberries, Kiwi, and Berries)

Strawberries:

   - Calories: 32

   - Carbohydrates: 7.7g

   - Protein: 0.7g

   - Fat: 0.3g

Kiwi:

   - Calories: 61

   - Carbohydrates: 14g

   - Protein: 1.1g

   - Fat: 0.5g

Berries (e.g., blueberries):

   - Calories: 57

   - Carbohydrates: 14g

   - Protein: 0.7g

   - Fat: 0.3g

Benefits:

  - High in vitamins C and K.

  - Rich in antioxidants, which support immune health and may reduce inflammation.

  - Provides dietary fiber for digestive health.

This combination of ingredients creates a light and sweet meringue with a creamy topping, garnished with fresh fruit for added flavor and nutrition.