These mini pavlovas are a beautiful and delicious dessert that combines the light crispiness of meringue with the smooth richness of whipped cream and the vibrant tartness of fresh berries. Each pavlova is carefully crafted into a small, delicate nest, filled with velvety whipped cream and topped with a dollop of berry jam and fresh strawberries. The meringue is baked slowly to achieve a perfect texture – crisp on the outside and slightly chewy on the inside. This dessert is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually stunning treat that’s perfect for any special occasion.
Why You'll Love This:
You’ll love these mini pavlovas for their light and airy texture, combined with the indulgent creaminess of the whipped cream filling. The meringue nests provide a crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, smooth interior, while the berry jam and fresh fruit add a burst of flavor that balances the sweetness. These pavlovas are easy to make and versatile, allowing you to customize the toppings with your favorite fruits or even a drizzle of chocolate. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or enjoying them as a special treat, these pavlovas are sure to impress.
Perfect Occasion:
These mini pavlovas are ideal for a variety of occasions, from elegant dinner parties to casual get-togethers. Their delicate appearance and delicious flavor make them a perfect choice for celebrations like birthdays, holidays, or anniversaries. They’re also a great option for a spring or summer dessert, as the fresh berries and light meringue make them a refreshing and satisfying treat. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a tea party, or simply want to enjoy a beautiful dessert at home, these pavlovas are sure to be a hit.
Decoration Tips:
For a stunning presentation, pipe the meringue into perfect nests using a star-shaped tip to create decorative ridges. After baking, let the meringue cool completely before filling them with whipped cream. Top each pavlova with a spoonful of berry jam and a few fresh strawberries or other seasonal fruits. To add an extra touch of elegance, dust the tops with powdered sugar or add a sprinkle of edible flowers. For a more indulgent version, you can drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the pavlovas just before serving.
Ingredients:
- 175g egg whites (about 5 large egg whites)
- 300g refined sugar
- 300g heavy cream (for whipping)
- 100g sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Berry jam (homemade or store-bought)
- Fresh strawberries (or preferred fruit) for decoration
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meringue:
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar and egg whites. Stir constantly over low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Be careful not to let the mixture overheat; keep the temperature below 55°C to prevent the egg whites from cooking. This step can also be done using a double boiler.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, transfer the mixture to a clean mixing bowl. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture cools completely and forms a stiff, glossy meringue. This will take about 20 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 100°C (212°F). The low temperature is crucial for baking the meringue slowly, ensuring that it becomes crisp without browning.
- Shape the Meringue:
- Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip (like the Wilton 6B). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat.
- Pipe small nests by first creating a circular base and then piping along the edges to build up the sides, leaving the center hollow for the filling.
- Bake the Meringues:
- Bake the meringue nests for approximately 2 hours, or until they are dry and crisp. They should be firm to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream:
- While the meringues are baking, prepare the filling. Whip the chilled heavy cream together with the sweetened condensed milk until it forms stiff peaks. Add vanilla extract if using.
- Assemble the Pavlovas:
- Once the meringue nests have cooled completely, fill each one with a spoonful of whipped cream. Add a dollop of berry jam on top and decorate with fresh strawberries or your choice of fruit.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- These mini pavlovas are best served immediately after assembling to maintain their crisp texture. Arrange them on a platter and enjoy this light, elegant dessert with your loved ones.
Enjoy!