Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis is a delightful dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion. With its light, airy meringue base topped with creamy mascarpone and fruity strawberry coulis, this classic pavlova is perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or simply enjoying at home. Its unique combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout dessert that will impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This classic pavlova recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for everyone.
- Deliciously Light: The airy meringue paired with rich mascarpone creates a wonderful contrast that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile Toppings: While strawberries are featured in this version, you can easily switch up the fruit toppings to match seasonal favorites.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a holiday gathering, this pavlova fits right in.
- Stunning Presentation: The towering meringue topped with fresh berries looks impressive on any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the delicious process of making this classic pavlova, gather the essential tools that will make your baking experience smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: A reliable mixer ensures that egg whites are whipped to the right stiffness for the perfect pavlova.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution for baking the meringue evenly.
- Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes transferring the pavlova much easier.
Ingredients
For this classic pavlova recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Meringue Base
- 5 large/150 grams egg whites
- ¾ cup/150 grams sugar
- 1¼ cups/150 grams powdered sugar
For the Whipped Mascarpone Topping
- 2 cups/500 milliliters heavy whipping cream
- 4 heaping tablespoons/100 grams mascarpone
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
For the Strawberry Coulis
- 1½ cups/200 grams frozen strawberries
- 4 tablespoons/50 grams sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
To Decorate
- Fresh berries
- Mint leaves
How to Make Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature will help create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. You can draw a circle on the paper to guide you in shaping the meringue.
Step 3: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean mixing bowl, add the egg whites. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Fold in Powders
Gently fold in powdered sugar using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to deflate your mixture.
Step 5: Shape Meringue
Spoon the meringue onto the prepared parchment paper. Shape it into a disc about 8 inches wide, creating slight indentations in the center for toppings later.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 180 minutes. Once baked, turn off the oven but leave the pavlova inside to cool completely.
Step 7: Make Strawberry Coulis
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine frozen strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until strawberries break down into sauce consistency. Allow cooling before using.
Step 8: Whip Cream
In another mixing bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla paste until smooth.
Step 9: Assemble
Once cooled, carefully transfer your meringue to a serving platter. Spread whipped mascarpone on top and drizzle with strawberry coulis. Add fresh berries and garnish with mint leaves before serving.
Enjoy this classic pavlova with whipped mascarpone and strawberry coulis as an unforgettable dessert!
How to Serve Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis
Serving your Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis is a delightful experience. This dessert can be presented in various ways to impress your guests and enhance the flavors.
Individual Servings
- Serve individual portions of pavlova topped with whipped mascarpone and a drizzle of strawberry coulis. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their dessert without any mess.
Family Style
- Present the pavlova on a large platter, allowing everyone to serve themselves. This creates a communal feel and encourages sharing among family and friends.
Garnished with Fresh Fruits
- Add an assortment of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries on top of the pavlova. The combination of textures and flavors will elevate the dessert.
Mint Leaves as a Garnish
- Use fresh mint leaves to garnish each serving. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also provides a refreshing aroma that complements the sweetness of the pavlova.
How to Perfect Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis
To achieve the best results for your Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis, consider these essential tips.
Use Room Temperature Egg Whites: Letting egg whites come to room temperature helps them whip better, resulting in a more stable meringue.
Gradually Add Sugar: Slowly incorporate sugar into the egg whites while whipping. This ensures that sugar dissolves completely, leading to a glossy finish.
Avoid Humidity: Make pavlova on a dry day. Humidity can affect how well your meringue holds up and can make it chewy instead of crispy.
Cool Slowly: After baking, turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside for at least an hour. This prevents cracks from forming due to sudden temperature changes.
Best Side Dishes for Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis
Pairing side dishes with your Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made from seasonal fruits can provide freshness that complements the sweetness of the pavlova.
Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip strawberries or bananas for an indulgent treat alongside their dessert.
Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese. The savory notes will balance beautifully with the sweetness of the pavlova.
Mini Quiches: These savory bites are perfect appetizers that add variety to your meal without overpowering the dessert’s flavors.
Pistachio Cookies: Lightly flavored pistachio cookies can enhance the overall experience with their nutty taste that pairs well with strawberries.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream serves as a creamy contrast to the crunchy pavlova, making it even more enjoyable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a classic pavlova can seem daunting, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.
- Using old egg whites: Fresh eggs are crucial for achieving the perfect meringue. Always use fresh egg whites for better volume and stability.
- Not beating the egg whites long enough: Under-beaten egg whites won’t hold their shape. Ensure you beat them until stiff peaks form for a light and airy texture.
- Skipping the vinegar or cornstarch: These ingredients help stabilize the meringue. Don’t skip them; they are essential for a successful pavlova.
- Overbaking the pavlova: Baking too long can lead to cracks and dryness. Keep an eye on it, and remove it when it’s still slightly soft in the center.
- Serving immediately after baking: Pavlovas can collapse if not cooled properly. Allow it to cool completely in the oven with the door ajar before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pavlova in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It is best consumed within 2 days to maintain its texture.
Freezing Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis
- You can freeze the meringue base without toppings for up to 1 month.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis
- Oven: Preheat to low (about 200°F/90°C) and warm for about 10 minutes to revive its crispness.
- Microwave: Use sparingly, warming in short intervals (5–10 seconds) to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Not recommended as this may lead to uneven heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a classic pavlova that people often ask.
What is Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis?
Classic pavlova is a dessert made from a meringue base topped with whipped mascarpone cheese and strawberry coulis, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh strawberries can be used for the coulis. Just blend them with sugar and lemon juice as you would with frozen strawberries.
How do I know when my pavlova is done baking?
Your pavlova should be crisp on the outside yet soft on the inside. A slight color change will indicate it’s ready—avoid overbaking.
Can I customize my pavlova toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like kiwi or passion fruit, or even vary the cream by using flavored mascarpone for extra indulgence.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis is not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or cream flavors according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and indulge in its deliciousness!
Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis
Classic Pavlova with Whipped Mascarpone and Strawberry Coulis is the epitome of elegance in dessert form. This light, airy meringue base, delicately topped with creamy mascarpone and vibrant strawberry coulis, provides a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will enchant your guests. Ideal for celebrations or a sweet treat at home, this show-stopping dessert impresses not only with its taste but also with its stunning presentation. Enjoy the versatility of this recipe by customizing it with seasonal fruits to match any occasion.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
Ingredients
- 5 large egg whites
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1¼ cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 4 tablespoons mascarpone cheese
- 1½ cups frozen strawberries
- Fresh berries (for decoration)
- Mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whip egg whites until soft peaks form; gradually add granulated sugar until stiff peaks develop.
- Gently fold in powdered sugar until combined. Shape the meringue into an 8-inch disc on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 180 minutes, then turn off the oven and let it cool inside.
- For the strawberry coulis, cook frozen strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat until saucy; cool before using.
- Whip cream until soft peaks form; fold in mascarpone and powdered sugar.
- Once cooled, assemble by spreading whipped mascarpone on the meringue, drizzling with coulis, and garnishing with fresh berries and mint.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
