Mothers Day Pavlova Mixed Berries (Printable Version)

A crisp meringue with soft center topped by whipped cream and fresh mixed berries for a festive treat.

# Ingredient List:

→ Meringue Base

01 - 4 large egg whites, room temperature
02 - 1 cup superfine sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon cornstarch
04 - 1 teaspoon white vinegar
05 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
06 - Pinch of salt

→ Cream Topping

07 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
08 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
09 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Mixed Berries

10 - 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
11 - 1 cup raspberries
12 - 1 cup blueberries
13 - 1/2 cup blackberries
14 - 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, optional
15 - 1 tablespoon powdered sugar for dusting, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 250°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and trace a 9-inch circle as a guide for shaping.
02 - In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat egg whites with pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
03 - Gradually add superfine sugar one tablespoon at a time, beating continuously until mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form, approximately 5-6 minutes total.
04 - Gently fold cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract into the meringue until just combined.
05 - Spoon meringue onto prepared parchment, shaping into a circle with slightly raised edges to form a nest. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes.
06 - Turn off oven and allow pavlova to cool completely inside with door slightly ajar until room temperature.
07 - While pavlova cools, whip chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
08 - Transfer cooled meringue to serving platter. Top with whipped cream, then arrange mixed berries and mint leaves.
09 - Dust with powdered sugar immediately before serving if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Spectacular presentation that's perfect for Mother's Day celebrations
  • Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly dessert option
  • Contrasting textures: crispy exterior with a soft marshmallow center
  • Fresh, vibrant berries add natural sweetness and beautiful color
  • Can be prepared ahead and assembled just before serving
02 -
  • Use superfine sugar for best results—it dissolves more easily than regular granulated sugar
  • Don't rush the cooling process; letting the meringue cool in the oven prevents cracking
  • A small crack or two is normal and adds to the rustic charm of homemade pavlova
  • Assemble the pavlova no more than 2 hours before serving to keep the meringue crisp
  • Save leftover egg yolks for making custard, hollandaise, or homemade pasta
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