Description
This Vanilla Pavlova with Pineapple & Passion Fruit is a delicate and airy meringue-based dessert featuring a crisp crust and soft, marshmallow-like center. Topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream, fresh pineapple, and tropical passion fruit pulp, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Ideal for summer gatherings and special occasions, this elegant yet simple dessert impresses with its beautiful presentation and refreshing flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Meringue
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/3 cup fresh passion fruit pulp (about 2 fruits)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and trace an 8-inch circle to use as a guide for shaping the pavlova.
- Whip egg whites: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one spoonful at a time, continuing to beat until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form.
- Incorporate dry ingredients and flavoring: Carefully fold in the cornstarch, white vinegar, and vanilla extract to the meringue mixture using a spatula, taking care to retain the airiness.
- Shape the meringue: Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet within the traced circle and shape it into a dome with a shallow dip in the center to hold toppings.
- Bake and cool: Bake the meringue for 1 hour and 15 minutes. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Let the pavlova cool completely inside the oven to prevent cracking.
- Whip the cream: Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Set aside gently.
- Assemble the pavlova: Once completely cooled, spread the whipped cream over the pavlova. Scatter the diced pineapple chunks and spoon the passion fruit pulp evenly on top.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the pavlova’s crisp exterior and soft interior at its best texture.
Notes
- Ensure no yolk is in the egg whites for best meringue volume.
- The vinegar and cornstarch help stabilize the meringue and give it a marshmallow-like center.
- Allowing the pavlova to cool in the oven prevents sudden temperature changes, minimizing cracks.
- Use fresh fruit for the best flavor contrast with the sweet meringue and cream.
- Serve pavlova the same day it is assembled for the best texture as the meringue can absorb moisture and soften over time.
