recipes

Named after Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, this dessert is as elegant as a pirouette yet easy to make. Topping our version, Berry Lemon Pavlova, is a pillow of whipped mascarpone cream, berries and mint.

Berry-Lemon Pavlova

Named after Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova in 1926, this dessert is as elegant as a pirouette yet easy to make. After baking, let the meringue cool completely before taking it from the oven. This helps minimize cracking in the meringue. Topping the confection is a pillow of whipped mascarpone cream, berries and mint.

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
  • 1 cup superfine sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
  • 1 cup fresh blackberries
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 (8-ounce) container mascarpone cheese
  • 1 cup whipping cream
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
  • Mint leaves, for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 250ºF. Position rack in center of oven. Draw a 7-inch circle on parchment paper. Place paper, circle side down, on a baking sheet.

For meringue, in a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on medium until soft peaks form (tips curl). Add superfine sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high until stiff peaks form (tips stand straight) and sugar is almost dissolved. Sprinkle cornstarch, vinegar and vanilla over mixture; fold in gently. Spoon meringue over circle on paper; build up sides to form a shell. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes or until the outside is dry.

Turn oven off, leaving meringue in oven with door slightly open until cooled completely (1½ to 2 hours). As it cools, the outside may crack slightly.* 

For berry filling, about 30 minutes before serving, in a medium bowl, stir together berries and 3 tablespoons sugar. Let stand for 15 minutes.

For mascarpone cream, in a medium bowl combine mascarpone cheese, whipping cream, ¼ cup sugar and lemon zest. Beat with an electric mixer on medium-high until soft peaks form. Spoon mixture into meringue shell. Arrange berry mixture on top. If desired, garnish with mint leaves. Serve immediately. 

*Note: You can store the meringue shell in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.