So thrilled to welcome Denise Kortlever of The Little Things blog today, with a special guest post featuring one of my favorite all-time desserts, a pavlova with cream. I love the idea of mastering one basic recipe, then getting major mileage out of it by changing up the presentation. Denise does just that by teaching us a perfect pavlova recipe, then transforming it into 3 show-stopping desserts that are perfect for entertaining. Holiday season, bring it on! – Camille
I have yet to meet a guest who doesn’t love pavlova. That crunchy, feathery light sweet base filled with luscious whipped cream and fresh fruit is always a winner. Sometimes I go for a mini variation and make pretty individual pavlovas. This version with dark chocolate and sweet plump raspberries is one of my ultimate favorites. In this post I’ll show you how to make three different desserts using one easy basic pavlova recipe. The only real difference is in the styling and presentation. It’s all about the little things!
1. Mini Chocolate Pavlovas with Raspberries & Cream
Lay one chocolate pavlova per person on a plate. Dollop a scoop of whipped cream on the bases, then add a handful of raspberries and serve straight away.
2. Mini Layered Chocolate & Raspberry Pavlova
Place one pavlova on a plate. Dollop a scoop of whipped cream in the middle, sprinkle over some raspberries and carefully place a second pavlova on top. Repeat with another dollop of whipped cream, some raspberries and a third pavlova. Finish with extra cream and a handful of raspberries on top. Serve immediately.
3. Chocolate & Raspberry Eton Mess
Crumble one chocolate pavlova per person into small pieces. Fill elegant serving bowls or glass jars with the whipped cream, then add the crumbled pavlova and raspberries. Mix quickly with a spoon for a rippled effect and serve immediately.
Text & recipes by Denise Kortlever from The Little Things
Chocolate Pavlova with Raspberries & Cream
Serves 6
Dark Chocolate Pavlovas with Raspberries & Cream
Categories
Ingredients
- 2 egg whites
- ½ cup (100 g) white sugar
- 1 heaping tablespoon cacao powder
- a drop of vinegar
- 0.7 oz (20 g) dark chocolate (at least 70%), finely chopped
- ¾ cup (180 ml) cream
- 1½ cup (200 g) fresh raspberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F (180C).
- Whisk the egg whites with some salt in a very clean bowl until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and mix well. The meringue mixture should be glossy and firm.
- Quickly mix in the cacao powder, vinegar and dark chocolate with a spatula until everything is combined.
- Form six mini pavlovas on a baking sheet covered with baking paper. Put them into the preheated oven and immediately turn the oven temperature down to 300F (150C). Bake for 30 minutes.
- Turn the oven off and let the pavlovas cool down in the turned-off oven.
- Meanwhile, whip the cream until it’s thick and luscious. I find this easier when I add a tablespoon of powdered sugar.
Note: Prepare the pavlovas at least two hours in advance. They should be completely cool before topping. You can easily make the bases up to two days ahead. Perfect for busy days!
This looks amazing! I love the presentation. Certainly on my list of desserts to make. Yum yum!
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I love the little things blog and this looks delicious. I can’t wait to give it a go at the next soiree. thanks for sharing!
love, arielle
a simple elegance
This look very delicious 🙂
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