Crisp meringue with airy center, finished with whipped cream and mixed fresh berries for a bright, festive treat.
# What You Need:
→ Meringue
01 - 4 large egg whites, room temperature
02 - 1 cup superfine sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon cornstarch
04 - 1 teaspoon white vinegar
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Whipped Cream
06 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
07 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Topping
09 - 2 cups assorted fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
10 - Fresh mint leaves (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 275°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and mark an 8-inch circle as a guide, then invert the paper.
02 - In a large, clean bowl, use an electric mixer to beat egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form.
03 - Gradually add superfine sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed after each addition until glossy and stiff peaks form.
04 - Gently fold in cornstarch, white vinegar, and vanilla extract with a spatula until fully combined.
05 - Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared parchment, shaping into a round with slightly raised edges to hold toppings.
06 - Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes. Turn off the oven and allow the pavlova to cool completely inside with the door slightly ajar.
07 - In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form.
08 - Transfer cooled meringue onto a serving platter. Spread whipped cream over the center, top with fresh berries, and garnish with mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
