Pavlova Cake
Pavlova is a delightful and elegant dessert named after the famous Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova. This meringue-based treat is known for its crisp outer shell and soft, marshmallow-like interior, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits.
The origins of Pavlova cake are claimed by both Australia and New Zealand, with both countries asserting that the dessert was created in honour of Anna Pavlova during her tour of the region in the 1920s. Regardless of its exact origin, Pavlova has become a beloved dessert in both countries and is often enjoyed during festive occasions and celebrations.
The key to a perfect Pavlova lies in the meringue, which is made by whipping egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form, then baking it at a low temperature. This process ensures a crisp crust while keeping the inside soft and airy. A bit of vinegar is added to the meringue to stabilise it and give it a glossy finish., while cornstarch is used to help achieve the characteristic texture of the Pavlova.
Once the meringue base is baked and cooled, it is typically topped with freshly whipped cream and an assortment of fruits. Popular choices include strawberries, kiwis, passion fruit and berries, which add a refreshing contrast to the sweet meringue. The combination of textures and flavours makes Pavlova an irresistible treat.
Nutritionally, Pavlova is relatively light compared to other desserts, as it mainly consists of egg whites and sugar. However, it is still a sweet treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. The addition of fresh fruits provides a burst of vitamins and antioxidants, adding a touch of healthiness to the dessert.
Pavlova's light, airy texture and vibrant toppings make it a perfect dessert for warm weather and festive gatherings. Its elegant appearance and delightful taste have made it a favourite among dessert lovers worldwide. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, Pavlova is sure to impress with its beauty and flavour.
Whip the cold, refrigerated egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks, then add sugar and mix for 10 minutes, until glossy.
Add 2 teaspoons of vinegar and mix for 30 seconds.
Finally add a tablespoon of cornstarch, then mix until just combined, for about 30 seconds more.
Spread the meringue over a lined baking sheet in a circular shape, then with a spatula form the sides. Start by pushing from the inside out, creating a crater in the middle by making the sides a little higher. At the end stroke the outer sides upwards with a spatula.
Preheat the oven at 200°C, then lower the temperature to 120°C and bake for 1 hour and 40 minutes. Do not attempt to open the oven at any point, but leave it in the hot oven without opening the oven doors for at least 5-6 hours, or ideally overnight.
Once the meringue has cooled off and is set completely, transfer it onto a plate.
Mix the whipping cream with icing sugar until stiff peaks, then cover the meringue with the cream. Top with fruits and chocolate shavings, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Pavlova Cake
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whip the cold, refrigerated egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks, then add sugar and mix for 10 minutes, until glossy.
- Add 2 teaspoons of vinegar and mix for 30 seconds.
- Finally add a tablespoon of cornstarch, then mix until just combined, for about 30 seconds more.
- Spread the meringue over a lined baking sheet in a circular shape, then with a spatula form the sides. Start by pushing from the inside out, creating a crater in the middle by making the sides a little higher. At the end stroke the outer sides upwards with a spatula.
- Preheat the oven at 200°C, then lower the temperature to 120°C and bake for 1 hour and 40 minutes. Do not attempt to open the oven at any point, but leave it in the hot oven without opening the oven doors for at least 5-6 hours, or ideally overnight.
- Once the meringue has cooled off and is set completely, transfer it onto a plate.
- Mix the whipping cream with icing sugar until stiff peaks, then cover the meringue with the cream. Top with fruits and chocolate shavings, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
