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Mary Berry Christmas Pavlova

Mary Berry Christmas Pavlova

  • Author: Ekani Ella
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 60
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British

Description

Mary Berry’s Christmas Pavlova is a classic meringue-based dessert that is beautifully decorated for the holidays. The meringue is baked to achieve a crispy exterior and a chewy center, then topped with whipped cream and festive fruits like pomegranate seeds, berries, and kiwi. It’s a showstopper that’s simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Meringue

  • 4 large egg whites – At room temperature for maximum volume.
  • 225g caster sugar – Creates a glossy, stable meringue.
  • 1 tsp white vinegar – Helps stabilize the meringue.
  • 1 tsp cornstarch – Adds structure for a crisp exterior and chewy center.

For the Topping

  • 300ml double cream – Whipped to soft peaks.
  • 2 tbsp icing sugar – Sweeten the cream slightly.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the whipped cream.
  • Festive fruits (pomegranate seeds, raspberries, strawberries, kiwi slices) – For a colorful, seasonal touch.
  • Fresh mint leaves – Optional garnish for added color.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tray

Preheat your oven to 150°C (130°C fan) or 300°F. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper. Draw a 20cm (8-inch) circle on the parchment as a guide, then flip it over.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean, dry mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites using an electric mixer on medium speed until they form soft peaks.

Step 3: Add the Sugar Gradually

Increase the mixer speed to high and add the caster sugar one tablespoon at a time, whisking well after each addition. Continue whisking until the meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Vinegar and Cornstarch

Gently fold in the white vinegar and cornstarch using a spatula. These ingredients help create the pavlova’s characteristic texture.

Step 5: Shape the Meringue

Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking tray, spreading it out to fit the drawn circle. Use the back of a spoon to create a slight dip in the center, which will hold the cream and toppings.

Step 6: Bake the Pavlova

Place the tray in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 120°C (100°C fan) or 250°F. Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven and let the pavlova cool completely inside the oven. This slow cooling process prevents cracking.

Step 7: Prepare the Topping

In a mixing bowl, whip the double cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Step 8: Assemble the Pavlova

Carefully transfer the cooled pavlova to a serving plate. Spoon the whipped cream into the center, spreading it evenly. Arrange the festive fruits on top and garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve the pavlova immediately for the freshest presentation.