Pavlova Shell

I'mPat's Note:

Originally got this recipe from the MIL nearly 30 years ago and used to make this a lot pre-diabetic days but now only rarely for others or on request. Decorate with fresh whipped cream and sliced seasonal fruit of choice. As per step 6 this is best made when you know you do not want to use the oven for several hours (I use to do at night and turn off oven and leave overnight) - time does not include this cooling down phase. UPDATE 23rd September 2007 - The MIL recently informed me she now only uses 1/2 cup of caster sugar when making it as they don't like it as sweet as they use too.

• Total Time: 1 hrs
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins

Ingredients:

Serves: 10-12

Yield: 1.0 Pavlova

• cornflour

Pavlova

• 4 egg whites
• 1 ½ cups caster sugar (you could use as little as 1/2 cup)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornflour (cornstarch)
• 4 tablespoons boiling water

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 160 degree C (320 degree F).
2. Grease pavlova plate (or baking/cookie sheet will do) well, sprinkle liberally with cornflour , shaking off excess.
3. Combine all ingredient for pavlova into a small mixing bowl of mixer and beat at high speed for 15 minutes.
4. Place meringue in centre of greased plate and spread over plate (in a 8 to 9 inch circle) or if preferred pipe onto the plate making it slightly thicker at the edges, so a dip is formed for filling.
5. Bake for 15 minutes at 160 degree C (320 degree F), lower temperature to 110 degree C (210 degree F) and bake for a further 30 minutes.
6. LET PAVLOVA GO COLD IN THE OVEN (DO NOT REMOVE TILL COLD).
7. Fill with whipped cream and decorate with sliced seasonal fruit of choice (eg bananas, kiwifruit, berries and passionfruit are some suggestions).

Reviews

[Crafty Lady 13]

This was my frst time making Pavlova and I was surprised to find out how easy it was to make. The shell was so light and delicate. I filled it with lots of whipped cream and then topped it off with fresh strawberries, raspberres and blueberries. I took this to our 4th of July cookout and everyone raved about this tasty dessert. I'm looking forward to trying it with a variation of fruit toppings. Made for July 2010 Aus/NZ Make My Recipe Tag Game.

[TasteTester]

You've outdone yourself this time, Pat! I made your recipe exactly as written, and DH and DS declared it the best dessert ever. Can I give it 10 stars? We loved the thin, crunchy shell and the marshmallowey cream that formed inside. I filled the shell with whipped cream and topped it with frozen, thawed mixed fruit, as well as a few slices of fresh kiwi. This is a real showstopper of a dessert -- so delicious, and makes an impressive presentation as well. Thanks for sharing this recipe!!

[MarraMamba]

A great pavlova shell. I took your MIL's advice and cut the sugar in half, found I preferred it too. Thanks so much for the tip and the recipe.