Mini Pavlovas
Ingredients:
For the Pavlovas:
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh fruit (such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, kiwi, and passion fruit)
- Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Draw six 3-inch circles on the parchment paper as a guide for your mini pavlovas, then flip the paper over so the circles are on the reverse side.
2. Make the Meringue:
- In a large, clean bowl, beat the egg whites and a pinch of salt with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition, until the meringue is thick and glossy, and stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the vinegar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until just combined.
3. Shape the Mini Pavlovas:
- Spoon the meringue onto the parchment paper, using the drawn circles as a guide. Create a slight indent in the center of each meringue to hold the cream and fruit later.
4. Bake:
- Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Then, turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside to cool completely, preferably overnight. This helps them dry out and become crispy on the outside while remaining soft and marshmallow-like on the inside.
5. Prepare the Topping:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
6. Assemble the Mini Pavlovas:
- Carefully remove the cooled meringues from the parchment paper and place them on a serving platter.
- Spoon a generous dollop of whipped cream onto each meringue.
- Top with a variety of fresh fruits. You can use sliced strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, kiwi, passion fruit, or any other favorite fruits.
- Garnish with mint leaves if desired.
7. Serve:
- Serve the mini pavlovas immediately to enjoy the contrast of the crispy meringue, creamy whipped cream, and fresh, juicy fruits.
These Mini Pavlovas are a delightful dessert with a light, airy texture, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
