Are you looking for a simple, but impressive dessert to serve this spring? Named for ballerina, Anna Pavlova, this dessert is light and airy, just like a dancer.This pavlova, made from slowly baked meringue is light, fresh, and gluten-free to boot! It's sure to have you pirouetting around your kitchen.
If you've never worked with egg whites in baking recipes, check out our Egg White Guide. You'll never be stumped about whether your peaks are soft or stiff again!
To make this recipe you will need:
6 large large egg whites, at room temperature
pinch of salt
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Sweetened Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy cream, cold
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 pint fresh blackberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 pint fresh blueberries
1/2 pint fresh raspberries
honey for drizzling (optional)
Preheat the oven to 180°. Place a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet.
Place the egg whites and salt in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Beat the egg whites on high until soft peaks form, about 1 minute. With the mixer still on high, slowly pour in sugar and beat until stiff, shiny peaks form, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove the bowl from the mixer, sprinkle the cornstarch onto the egg whites, add the vinegar and vanilla and fold in gently with a spatula. Pile the meringue into two medium, equal-size piles on parchment paper and smooth them out, making rough disks. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, then turn off the oven and keep the door closed, allowing the meringue to cool completely in the oven, about 1 hour.
While meringue is cooling, make the sweetened whipped cream:
Whip the cream in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. When it starts to thicken, add the sugar and continue to beat until firm. Don't overbeat!
Carefully remove one meringue from the parchment paper and place on a plate. Spoon sweetened whipped cream over the top and sprinkle with half of the berries. Place second meringue disk on top and repeat with the whipped cream and berries. Drizzle with honey if desired.
