🍓 Chocolate Strawberry Pavlova with Whipped Cream

✨ Description

A crisp meringue shell with a soft marshmallow-like center, topped with clouds of freshly whipped cream, juicy strawberries, rich chocolate drizzle, and chocolate shavings. Elegant, light, and irresistibly delicious.

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📝 Ingredients

For the Pavlova (Meringue Base)

• 4 large egg whites (room temperature)

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 1 tsp cornstarch

• 1 tsp white vinegar or lemon juice

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

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For the Whipped Cream

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream (cold)

• 2–3 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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For the Chocolate Sauce

• ½ cup (90g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

• ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream

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Toppings

• Fresh strawberries (halved or whole)

• Chocolate shavings or curls

• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

• Powdered sugar for dusting

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pavlova

1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.

3. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating continuously until stiff, glossy peaks form (about 8–10 minutes).

4. Gently fold in cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract.

5. Spoon mixture onto parchment paper, shaping into a round nest (about 7–8 inches wide) with slightly raised edges.

6. Bake for 75–90 minutes until dry on the outside.

7. Turn off oven and let pavlova cool completely inside the oven with the door slightly open.

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Step 2: Make the Chocolate Sauce

1. Heat heavy cream until just simmering (do not boil).

2. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl.

3. Let sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.

4. Allow to cool slightly before drizzling.

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Step 3: Whip the Cream

1. In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft to medium peaks form.

2. Do not overwhip.

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Step 4: Assemble

1. Place cooled pavlova on a serving plate.

2. Spoon or pipe whipped cream generously over the center.

3. Arrange fresh strawberries on top.

4. Drizzle chocolate sauce over everything.

5. Sprinkle chocolate shavings and lightly dust with powdered sugar.

6. Garnish with mint leaves.

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💡 Pro Tips

• Ensure bowl and beaters are completely grease-free for perfect meringue.

• Add sugar slowly for a stable, glossy texture.

• Assemble just before serving to keep the meringue crisp.

• Store leftover pavlova base in an airtight container at room temperature.

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⏰ Storage

• Pavlova base: up to 2 days in airtight container.

• Assembled pavlova: best enjoyed within a few hours.