Mini Pavlovas with Fresh Berries Recipe
Mini Pavlovas with Fresh Berries are delicate, crisp meringue nests topped with rich whipped cream and a medley of fresh berries. This elegant dessert combines light, airy textures with sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for parties, special occasions, or a refreshing treat.
- Author: Douaa
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 mini pavlovas 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian/New Zealand
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Meringue:
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp white vinegar
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) – about 1 cup mixed
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the Meringue: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time, continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks develop. Carefully fold in the vanilla extract, cornstarch, and white vinegar to stabilize the meringue.
- Shape Mini Pavlovas: Using a spoon or piping bag, place 6 to 8 small rounds of meringue onto the lined baking sheet. Make a slight well in the center of each to hold the cream and berries later.
- Bake: Bake the meringues for 1 to 1.5 hours until they are dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper. Once done, turn off the oven and allow the meringues to cool completely inside to prevent cracking.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a smooth and fluffy topping.
- Assemble: Place a dollop of whipped cream in each meringue well and top with a generous mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Serve immediately for best texture.
Notes
- Ensure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease to achieve the best meringue peaks.
- Do not open the oven door while baking, as temperature fluctuations can cause the meringues to crack.
- Use room temperature egg whites for better volume when whipping.
- For best results, assemble just before serving to maintain meringue crispness.
- Fresh berries can be substituted or augmented with passion fruit or kiwi for added zest.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pavlova
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: Mini Pavlova, Meringue Dessert, Fresh Berries Dessert, Whipped Cream Dessert, Light Dessert, Party Dessert