Australian Lemon Myrtle Pavlova

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Australian Lemon Myrtle Pavlova

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Course Dessert
Cuisine South Asian
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

  • For meringue:
  • 4 egg whites room temperature
  • 1 1/4 cups sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp dried lemon myrtle leaves finely ground
  • For topping:
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Fresh seasonal fruit
  • A sprinkle of extra ground lemon myrtle or lemon zest for garnish optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 250F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly dust with cornstarch to prevent sticking (optional).
  • Beat egg whites with the salt until stiff, glossy peaks form. The peaks should hold their shape when the whisk is lifted.
  • With the mixer running on medium speed, gradually add sugar, one tbsp at a time, beating well after each addition until the sugar is completely dissolved and meringue is thick and shiny, about 5-7 minutes. Merengue should feel smooth, not gritty.
  • Reduce the mixer speed to low. Sprinkle in lemon myrtle, cornstarch, and vinegar. Beat until just combined. Don’t overmix.
  • Gently spoon meringue onto prepared baking sheet, about 8-10” wide and about 2” high.
  • Place the baking sheet in oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 200F.
  • Bake for 1 hour, 15 minutes to 1 hour, 45 minutes, or until the meringue is dry to the touch and outside feels firm. Try not to open the door too often. Meringue should still be mostly white.
  • Turn off oven and leave inside to cool completely with door slightly ajar. This can take several hours, or even overnight.
  • Just before serving, whip the chilled heavy cream in a clean bowl with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Don’t overwhip.
  • Carefully transfer meringue to a serving plate. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top. Arrange the fresh fruit over whipped cream. Sprinkle with extra lemon myrtle or lemon zest
  • Serve immediately. Pavlova is best enjoyed fresh.

Notes

Lemon myrtle offers a more intense and slightly sweeter lemon flavor than regular lemon zest.