Berry Pavlova with Whipped Cream

If you’re craving something light, airy, and bursting with fresh flavors, look no further than this Berry Pavlova with Whipped Cream. The crispy, delicate meringue shell paired with a cloud-like whipped cream and topped with juicy berries is a dessert dream come true. It’s like a little slice of heaven on a plate—perfect for any special occasion or a sweet treat to brighten up your day. It’s impressive enough to serve at dinner parties yet simple enough to make any time you want a satisfying dessert. Trust me, once you take a bite of this crunchy, creamy, and fruity masterpiece, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Berry Pavlova with Whipped Cream

Here’s why this dessert will quickly become one of your favorites:

Light and Airy Texture

The meringue base is crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, creating the perfect balance of textures. Each bite feels like you’re floating on a cloud!

Fresh, Vibrant Berries

The fresh berries add a juicy, tangy pop of flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet meringue and creamy whipped cream. Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries—you can’t go wrong with this combo.

Beautifully Impressive

This dessert is elegant and visually stunning, making it the perfect treat to serve at any gathering. It looks like you spent hours making it, but it’s surprisingly easy to prepare!

Customizable

You can easily swap in different fruits depending on what’s in season, making it a versatile option that can be adjusted to your taste preferences. Want a more tropical twist? Go for mango, kiwi, and pineapple!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this light and dreamy dessert:

For the Meringue:

• Egg whites: The star of the meringue, giving it that perfect crisp texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the meringue while ensuring it holds its shape.
• Cornstarch: Helps stabilize the meringue, making it light and fluffy.
• White vinegar: A small amount to prevent the meringue from cracking and helps maintain its structure.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle flavor that complements the sweetness of the meringue.

For the Whipped Cream:

• Heavy cream: This is the key to making your whipped cream fluffy and rich.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without making it grainy.
• Vanilla extract: For that extra touch of flavor that ties everything together.

For the Berry Topping:

• Mixed berries: Choose your favorite berries or a variety like strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a vibrant mix.
• Honey: A little drizzle of honey to sweeten the berries and bring out their natural flavors.

Instructions

This dessert may look fancy, but don’t worry—it’s surprisingly simple to make. Let’s dive right in:

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature will help dry out the meringue without browning it too quickly.

Prepare the 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, about a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks. This step is crucial for a sturdy meringue!

Add the Stabilizers

Gently fold in the cornstarch, white vinegar, and vanilla extract until just combined. Be careful not to deflate the meringue!

Shape the Pavlova

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spoon the meringue onto the parchment, shaping it into a circle or oval, depending on your preference. Use a spatula to smooth the edges and make a small well in the center, which will hold the whipped cream and berries later.

Bake the Meringue

Place the meringue in the oven and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it’s dry and crisp on the outside but still soft on the inside. Turn off the oven and let the meringue cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This prevents cracks from forming due to a rapid temperature change.

Whip the Cream

While the meringue is cooling, make the whipped cream. Beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, or you’ll end up with butter instead of whipped cream!

Prepare the Berries

While the meringue and whipped cream cool, wash and prepare your berries. Slice any larger fruit (like strawberries) and mix the berries in a bowl. Drizzle a small amount of honey over the berries and toss to combine.

Assemble the Pavlova

Once the meringue has cooled completely, transfer it to a serving plate. Spoon the whipped cream into the center of the meringue and spread it gently. Top with the honeyed berries, arranging them beautifully on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Cut into this delicious creation and serve immediately. The crispy meringue, creamy whipped cream, and fresh berries will make your taste buds do a happy dance.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 200 calories (approx.)

Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 20mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 2g
• Vitamin A: 8% DV
• Vitamin C: 50% DV
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Iron: 2% DV

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Total Time: 2.5 to 3 hours (including cooling)

How to Serve Berry Pavlova with Whipped Cream

Berry Pavlova with Whipped Cream is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with these suggestions:

• Serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce: A little chocolate drizzle adds extra indulgence to the fruity dessert.
• Pair with a glass of sparkling wine: The light and refreshing nature of the pavlova pairs wonderfully with a glass of bubbly.
• Top with fresh mint: Add a few sprigs of fresh mint to your pavlova for a refreshing herbal note.

Additional Tips

• Make ahead: You can make the meringue and whipped cream a day ahead and assemble the pavlova just before serving.
• Avoid humidity: Meringue doesn’t do well in humid conditions, so try to make it on a dry day to get the perfect crisp texture.
• Customize the toppings: Switch up the berries with other fruits, such as kiwi or mango, for a tropical twist.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
A1: While homemade whipped cream is ideal for this recipe, you can use store-bought whipped cream in a pinch for convenience.

Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
A2: Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free because it doesn’t contain any flour, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. The meringue will soften slightly, but it will still taste delicious.

Q4: Can I make this in advance?
A4: Yes, you can prepare the meringue and whipped cream ahead of time, but wait to assemble the pavlova until just before serving to keep the meringue crisp.

Q5: Can I make a smaller pavlova?
A5: Absolutely! Simply halve the ingredients and make a smaller pavlova on a baking sheet.

Q6: How do I prevent the meringue from cracking?
A6: Allow the meringue to cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracking.

Q7: Can I use frozen berries?
A7: Fresh berries are best for this recipe, but you can use frozen berries if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using.

Q8: Can I use a different sweetener for the whipped cream?
A8: You can use a different sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup, instead of powdered sugar, but it may alter the texture and sweetness slightly.

Q9: How can I make the meringue less sweet?
A9: If you prefer a less sweet meringue, you can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind it may affect the meringue’s texture.

Q10: Can I use a different flavor of extract in the meringue?
A10: Yes! You could try almond extract or lemon extract for a unique twist, depending on your flavor preferences.

Conclusion

This Berry Pavlova with Whipped Cream is a beautiful and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress. With its crisp meringue, smooth whipped cream, and fresh berries, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness and freshness. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just treating yourself, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every light, fluffy bite!

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