Pavlova is a light and airy meringue-based dessert that is perfect for sharing. Present your pavlova on a board for an impressive dish that is sure to impress guests. Here is how you can make delicious pavlova boards at home.
Ingredients for Pavlova:
•3 egg whites, at room temperature
•1 1/4 cups sugar
•1 teaspoon vanilla extract
•1/4 teaspoon salt
Toppings:
•Sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
•Fresh fruit such as berries, kiwi, mango and papaya
• passionfruit pulp
•Chocolate sauce
•Caramel sauce
•Candied nuts
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites, sugar, vanilla and salt with electric beaters until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add more sugar one tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Scoop the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, making small mounds.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then increase the temperature to 350°F and bake for a further 5-10 minutes or until the outside is crisp but the inside remains marshmallowy.
- Allow pavlovas to cool completely, then top with your choice of sweetened cream, ice cream, fruit and sauces.
Some tips for making stunning pavlova boards:
• Use a combination of complementary flavors and textures for contrast, e.g. whipped cream and passionfruit, chocolate and berries.
• Include edible gold leaf or edible glitter for a touch of sparkle.
• Choose a variety of fresh or poached fruits in complementary colors.
• Make chocolate, caramel or berry sauce to drizzle over the pavlova.
• Top with candied nuts, coconut flakes or toasted almonds.
• Arrange the pavlova attractively on a platter or board for a showstopper dessert.
• Include candies or mini macarons for extra sweetness.
• Allow each component to shine through on the board. Don’t overcrowd the pavlova.
• Provide small skewers or picks for people to top their own pavlova bite.
• Most of all, have fun with it! Pavlova boards should be whimsical and Instagrammable.