Description

These mini pavlovas are made with crisp meringue nests, a soft marshmallow-like center, and a creamy mascarpone whipped cream topping. Finished with fresh strawberries, they're an elegant dessert that's perfect for spring, summer, holidays, and special occasions.

Ingredients

Mini Pavlova Meringue

200 g egg whites, room temperature (about 7 egg whites)
320 g (1 1/3 cups) extra-fine sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp white vinegar (or lemon juice)

Mascarpone Whipped Cream

200 g (7 oz) cold mascarpone
250 ml (1 cup) cold heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

Fresh strawberries

Instructions

Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and draw six 10 cm (4-inch) circles, leaving space between each one.
Clean the mixing bowl and whisk thoroughly to remove any traces of grease.
Beat the egg whites on low speed for 5 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
Increase to medium-low speed and continue beating for 5 minutes until soft peaks form.
Add the sugar gradually, one tablespoon at a time, mixing continuously until fully incorporated.
Beat for another 10 minutes until the meringue becomes thick and glossy. Rub a little meringue between your fingers to check that the sugar has dissolved completely.
Mix the cornstarch and vinegar together, then add them to the meringue.
Whisk on high speed for about 5 minutes until stiff peaks form.
Preheat the oven to 120°C (248°F).
Pipe six meringue nests onto the prepared baking sheet using a large star tip. Alternatively, spoon the meringue onto the circles and shape nests with the back of a spoon.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 110°C (230°F).
Bake for 90 minutes without opening the oven door.
Cool the mini pavlovas inside the turned-off oven with the door slightly open for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
Combine the mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a large bowl.
Whip until thick, smooth, and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Fill the mini pavlova nests with mascarpone whipped cream and top with fresh strawberries just before serving.