Ingredients
For the Meringue
For the Lemon Curd
For the Cream
Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the Meringue
Step 2
Prepare the Lemon Curd
Step 3
Prepare the Cream
Step 4
Assemble the Pavlova
Servings
**Serving Suggestions and Ideas:** 🌞
When it comes to serving your Lemon Meringue Pavlova, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful ideas to consider:
💐 **Spring Celebrations:** These pavlovas are perfect for Easter brunches or Mother’s Day gatherings. Garnish with edible flowers like violets or pansies for an added touch of spring beauty.
🌈 **Colorful Kids' Parties:** Kids will adore the light, crunchy meringue paired with the tangy sweetness of the lemon curd. Top with colorful sprinkles or assorted candy pieces to make it extra fun.
🍾 **Elegant Dinner Parties:** Wow your guests at your next dinner party. Serve individual pavlovas on fancy dessert plates, each with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of lemon curd. A sprig of mint on top adds a final flourish.
🍷 **Wine Pairings:** Pair your pavlova with a light, bubbly Prosecco or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful contrast to the sweet and tangy flavors. It’s the perfect palate cleanser after a rich meal.
Equipment
Choose bowls made of stainless steel or glass for better stability when whisking egg whites. Plastic bowls may hold onto grease, which can affect the meringue texture.
This is crucial for getting those stiff peaks in your meringue and making your whipped cream smooth. Make sure your mixer is clean and dry for best results.
To pipe the meringue into beautiful circular shapes, a sturdy piping bag and a few different nozzles will help you get creative.
Perfect for making the lemon curd to avoid direct heat, which can scramble your eggs. If you don’t have one, a heatproof bowl over a saucepan will do the trick.
Use parchment paper to prevent your meringues from sticking and make sure to secure it at the corners with a bit of meringue.
Variations
**Gluten-Free Variation** 🌾:
Great news! This Lemon Meringue Pavlova recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients, particularly the cornstarch, are labeled as gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
**Vegan Variation** 🌱:
- Vegan Meringue:
Replace the egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas). Whisk 4 tablespoons of aquafaba with the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch until you achieve stiff peaks. Bake as directed.
- Vegan Lemon Curd:
Substitute the egg yolks with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch and use a non-dairy butter alternative. Combine these with the lemon juice, zest, sugar, and milk (use almond, soy, or oat milk) over a double boiler, whisking until thickened.
- Vegan Cream:
Whip a non-dairy whipping cream such as coconut cream or a store-bought vegan alternative with the powdered sugar for a fluffy, dairy-free topping.
Faq
- Why isn't my meringue forming stiff peaks?
This could be due to fat or yolk contamination. Make sure all bowls and utensils are grease-free and avoid any egg yolk when separating the eggs.
- Can I make the meringue ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store baked meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- My lemon curd is too runny, what did I do wrong?
This can happen if it's not cooked long enough. Make sure it's thickened on the double boiler before removing it from heat.
- Can I use store-bought lemon curd and whipped cream?
Yes, for convenience, you can use store-bought versions, but making them from scratch will always offer superior flavor and freshness.
- How do I store leftover pavlovas?
Store assembled pavlovas in the refrigerator for up to a day. The meringue may soften slightly, so it’s best to assemble right before serving.
- Can I flavor the cream cheese filling?
Certainly! You can add a splash of vanilla extract or a bit of citrus zest to enhance the flavor. Just fold it in gently.