Description
The Patriotic Berry Pavlova is a twist on the classic pavlova, a meringue-based dessert named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. Its distinct feature is the crispy, crackling exterior and the soft, marshmallow-like interior. What makes this version even more special is the red, white, and blue theme achieved with fresh berries—strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
Ingredients
For the Meringue:
4 large egg whites (room temperature)
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp white vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Berries (Red, White & Blue Theme):
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup raspberries
1 cup blueberries
1 cup blackberries
(Optional) fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for garnish
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat to 275°F (135°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a 9-inch circle on the paper as a guide (flip paper over so pencil marks don’t touch the food).Make the Meringue:
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and salt on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high until glossy, stiff peaks form (about 5–6 minutes).
Sprinkle in cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla, and gently fold to combine.Shape the Pavlova:
Spoon the meringue onto the parchment circle, spreading to the edges and creating a slight well in the center for the toppings.Bake:
Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes, then turn the oven off and let the meringue cool inside the oven with the door slightly open for at least 1 hour.
(This prevents cracking and helps it stay crisp outside, soft inside.)Whip the Cream:
In a chilled bowl, beat the cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.Assemble:
Place the cooled pavlova on a serving plate.
Top with whipped cream and arrange berries in red, white, and blue layers or patterns (for example, stripes or a flag design).Serve Immediately:
Serve soon after assembling — pavlova is best eaten fresh when the outside is crisp and the inside is marshmallowy.
Notes
For a beautiful finish, top the pavlova with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries just before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey adds an elegant, festive touch.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Australian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
Keywords: Patriotic Berry Pavlova