Ingredients
Meringue Ingredients












Lemon Curd Ingredients









Cream Ingredients






Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 120 degrees Celsius (250 degrees Fahrenheit). In a mixing bowl, whip the room temperature egg whites on medium speed until fluffy.
Gradually add in the powdered sugar, continuing to whip until fully combined. This process usually takes about 5 minutes.
Add in the lemon juice and/or citric acid, and whip again for an additional 2-3 minutes. Finally, carefully sprinkle in the corn starch and whip for a final minute.
Step 2
Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle. To keep the parchment paper in place, dab a bit of meringue at each corner of the baking sheet.
Pipe the meringue into circular shapes and then place them in the preheated oven. Immediately reduce the temperature to 80 degrees Celsius (175 degrees Fahrenheit).
Bake the meringues for 2-3 hours depending on your oven's characteristics. Check them after one hour; if they still feel soft, they may need an additional 1.5 hours.
Step 3
For the lemon curd, combine the egg yolks, lemon juice, lemon zest, and sugar in a bowl and place it over a simmering pot of water.
Using a whisk, stir continuously until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and incorporate the butter until melted.
Step 4
For the cream, in a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar.
Whip at high speed for about 3 minutes until soft peaks form and the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 5
To assemble your Pavlova, layer the baked meringue base with the lemon curd and then generously dollop the whipped cream on top.
Garnish your dessert with fresh berries and you’re ready to serve your delightful creation!
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Curd Pavlova with family and friends!
Servings
When it comes to serving your beautiful Pavlova, think outside the box! The possibilities are endless! 💖 You can top it with a variety of fruits like berries, kiwi, or passion fruit, creating a stunning visual appeal that also enhances the flavor.
💚 For a delightful brunch, serve individual slices alongside a paring of fresh mint tea. 🍵 Wouldn’t that make your afternoon sparkle? Also, sprinkle some crushed pistachios or coconut flakes for a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts with the soft pavlova.
👩🍳 And let’s not forget – drizzle with some homemade caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving, and watch your guests' faces light up in delight!
Equipment
Use a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients. Glass or stainless steel is recommended to avoid any reactions.



A handheld or stand mixer will make whipping egg whites a breeze. Ensure they are clean and dry for best results!



This will help you shape the meringue into beautiful rounds. If you don't have one, a sturdy plastic bag with a corner cut off works too!



Preheat your oven accurately to avoid overbaking the meringue. Use an oven thermometer for precision!



This is essential for making the lemon curd without burning it. If you don’t have one, you can use a heat-proof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water.



Variations
Looking for alternatives? We've got you covered! 🌿 If you're aiming for a gluten-free dessert, you're already in luck since meringues are naturally free of gluten. For those who prefer a vegan option, try substituting egg whites with aquafaba (chickpea brine) – it whips up beautifully!
🥥 For the lemon curd, you can use a mix of coconut milk and cornstarch to achieve a creamy texture without the use of eggs and dairy.
✨ Speaking of flavors, switch up the citruses! Orange or lime could give your pavlova a refreshing twist, making it a unique dessert every time!
Faq
- What if my meringue isn't stiff enough?
If your meringue isn't holding its shape, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can also help stabilize the meringue.
- Can I make the meringue ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the meringue a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it crisp.
- What's the secret to a perfectly baked Pavlova?
Low and slow is the key! Bake at a low temperature, and allow it to dry out completely for that perfect texture.
- Can I substitute other fruits for the topping?
Absolutely! Any fresh fruit works nicely with pavlova. Consider strawberries, mango, or even roasted peaches!
- How do I prevent my Pavlova from cracking?
Cooling the Pavlova in the oven with the door slightly ajar can help prevent cracks, as it regulates the temperature change.
- How can I store leftover Pavlova?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. However, be mindful that toppings should be added just before serving to maintain the texture.