Lemon Meringue Pavlova
A delightful dessert featuring a crispy meringue shell, creamy lemon filling, and fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat at home.
Ingredients
For the Meringue
- 4 large egg whites, room temperature Use fresh eggs for better results.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Sugar should be added gradually.
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp white vinegar Helps stabilize the meringue.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Curd
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice Freshly squeezed is recommended.
- 1 tbsp lemon zest For added flavor.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter Must be added for silkiness.
For the Whipped Cream
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold Chill before whipping.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish
- to taste Lemon slices or lemon zest curls For decoration.
- to taste Powdered sugar For dusting before serving.
Instructions
Meringue Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw an 8-inch circle as a guide.
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Slowly add the sugar, one spoonful at a time, beating until the meringue becomes thick and glossy.
- Gently fold in the cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
- Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a tall round with slightly raised edges.
- Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes until dry on the outside. Turn the oven off and let the pavlova cool completely inside the oven with the door slightly cracked.
Lemon Curd Preparation
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Stir constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the butter until silky smooth. Chill completely.
Whipped Cream Preparation
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy soft peaks form.
Assembly and Serving
- Spoon the lemon curd over the cooled pavlova, then pile on generous swirls of whipped cream.
- Finish with lemon slices, extra zest, and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
- Serve immediately for the perfect texture.
Notes
Best served fresh. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator but may become soft. For best results, assemble right before serving.