Australia · Australia

Pavlova

Sugar dissolved grain by grain into a meringue, then dried slow in a cool oven.

classic pavlovaAustralian meringue dessert

The Chemistry in This Bake

Dissolving sugar fully into whipped egg whites for a stable meringue, then slow-drying it in a low oven.

Learn the full technique →

Ingredients

  • Egg whites (room temperature)
  • Caster sugar
  • Cornstarch
  • White vinegar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Heavy cream
  • Fresh fruit (strawberries, kiwi, passionfruit)

Method

  1. Whip egg whites to firm peaks, adding sugar a spoonful at a time until fully dissolved (rub a little between fingers).

  2. Fold in cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla gently.

  3. Shape into a disc with high sides on lined parchment.

  4. Bake at 120 °C for 1 hour 15 minutes, then turn off the oven and let it dry inside.

  5. Cool completely before topping.

  6. Whip cream, pile on the meringue, and cover with fresh fruit.