Chocolate Pavlova is a delightful dessert with a crisp exterior, chewy interior, and a rich chocolate flavor. It is often topped with cream and fresh berries.
Author:Hank
Prep Time:25 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 40 minutes
Yield:8 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:European
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
4 large egg whites, at room temperature
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (alcohol-free)
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, chilled
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 cup fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) for topping
Instructions
Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a 9-inch circle on it.
In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
Gradually add granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form and sugar is dissolved.
Gently fold in sifted cocoa powder, cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
Spoon the meringue onto the drawn circle on the parchment paper, creating a well in the center for the topping.
Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside with the door ajar for another 1 hour to cool completely. Do not open the oven door during baking or cooling.
Once completely cool, in a separate bowl, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
Carefully transfer the cooled pavlova to a serving plate. Spoon the whipped cream into the center of the pavlova.
Arrange fresh berries on top of the whipped cream before serving.
Notes
Ensure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and grease-free for best meringue results.
Do not open the oven door during baking or cooling to prevent the pavlova from cracking or collapsing.
Pavlova is best served the day it is made. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, though it may lose some crispness.