Ingredients
For the Pavlovas (Meringue Base):
- 5 egg whites
- 1 ¼ cup granulated sugar (250g)
- A few drops of purple food coloring (optional, for decoration)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp lemon juice
For the Blackberry Jam:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries (280g)
- ¼ cup sugar (50g) (or substitute with honey or maple syrup)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 ½ cups cold heavy cream (354ml)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (31g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meringue (Pavlova Base)
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a clean, dry bowl, whip the egg whites on medium speed for 1 minute.
- Slowly add the sugar while whipping. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to high and whip for 10-12 minutes until stiff peaks form. The meringue should look glossy.
- Gently fold in the cornstarch and lemon juice with a spatula.
- (Optional) For a swirl effect, brush food coloring inside a piping bag before adding the meringue.
- Pipe the meringue into small nest shapes (about 3½ inches wide), leaving space in the center for the filling.
- Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven and let the pavlovas sit inside for another 30 minutes to prevent cracking.
Step 2: Make the Blackberry Jam
- In a small saucepan, combine blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, dissolve 1 tbsp cornstarch in 2 tbsp water and stir into the blackberry mixture.
- Cook for 1 more minute, then let the jam cool completely in the fridge before using.
Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream
- Right before assembling, whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes, until soft peaks form.
- Transfer to a piping bag for easy assembly.
Step 4: Assemble the Pavlovas
- Spoon blackberry jam into the center of each pavlova.
- Top with whipped cream and fresh blackberries.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
Notes
- Whipping Egg Whites: Make sure your bowl and beaters are clean and free of grease. Even a small amount of fat can prevent egg whites from whipping properly.
- Avoid Overbaking: If your pavlova turns golden, the oven temperature is too high. It should remain white.
- Preventing Cracks: Let the pavlovas cool slowly in the oven after baking. Sudden temperature changes cause cracks.
- Storage Tips:
- Unfilled pavlovas last up to 5 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Blackberry jam stays fresh for 5 days in the fridge.
- Whipped cream should be made fresh.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour