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Mary Berry Strawberry Pavlova

Mary Berry Strawberry Pavlova

Mary Berry’s Strawberry Pavlova is a baked meringue-based dessert topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream and fresh strawberries. The meringue is crisp on the outside while staying soft and marshmallow-like inside, offering a beautiful balance of textures with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the meringue:

  • 4 large egg whites

  • 225g caster sugar

  • 1 tsp white vinegar

  • 1 tsp cornflour

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the topping:

  • 300ml double cream

  • 2 tbsp icing sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 300400g fresh strawberries (sliced or halved)

  • Extra berries or mint for finishing

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 150°C (130°C fan) / 300°F. Line a baking tray with parchment and draw a 20cm (8-inch) circle as a guide.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Whites

In a clean bowl, whisk egg whites on low speed until foamy. Increase speed and whisk until stiff peaks form.

Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually

Add caster sugar one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously until the mixture becomes glossy and forms firm peaks. This may take 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Fold in Stabilizers

Gently fold in cornflour, vinegar, and vanilla extract. These ingredients help stabilize the pavlova and keep the center marshmallow-soft.

Step 5: Shape the Pavlova

Spoon the meringue onto the parchment, staying within the marked circle. Shape it into a dome with a slight dip in the center.

Step 6: Bake the Meringue

Place in the oven, immediately reduce heat to 120°C (100°C fan) / 250°F, and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes. Turn the oven off and let the pavlova cool completely inside with the door slightly ajar.

Step 7: Prepare the Topping

Whip double cream with icing sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Slice or halve strawberries and set aside.

Step 8: Assemble the Pavlova

Place the cooled meringue on a serving dish. Spoon whipped cream into the center and top generously with fresh strawberries.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately for best texture. The crisp shell and creamy topping create a perfect balance!