Mini Pavlova

Mini Pavlova in Cups: The Light and Refreshing Delight of Summer

If you're looking for a dessert that is both elegant in appearance and easy to make, then Mini Pavlova in cups is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the crispy texture of meringues with the smoothness of whipped cream and the freshness of berries, creating a collage of flavors and colors that is sure to impress anyone. Here’s how you can prepare an irresistible dessert, ideal for any occasion!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients needed:

- 50 g store-bought or homemade meringues
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 200 g mixed berries (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, strawberries)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish

A Brief History

Pavlova is a dessert inspired by the ballet dancer Anna Pavlova, who traveled the world in the 1920s. It is a symbolic dessert that gained popularity due to its light texture and fresh flavors. Mini Pavlova in cups is a perfect variation to serve at parties or festive meals, as it is easy to portion and visually appealing.

Ingredient Details

1. Meringues: You can use store-bought meringues or make them at home. If you choose to make them yourself, be sure to let them cool completely to achieve that crispy texture.

2. Cream: It's important to use well-chilled cream to achieve a fluffy consistency. If desired, you can add a bit of powdered sugar or vanilla extract to the cream to enhance its flavor.

3. Berries: Not only do they add a refreshing touch, but they are also packed with antioxidants and vitamins. You can opt for fresh or frozen berries, depending on the season.

Preparation Technique

1. Making the meringues (optional): If you decide to make meringues at home, beat 2 egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add 100 g of sugar, continuing to mix until a glossy meringue forms. Pipe the meringue onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in circular shapes. Bake at 100°C for 1-1.5 hours. Allow to cool completely.

2. Assembling the dessert: Crush the meringues into small pieces. In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until it holds firm peaks. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn into butter.

3. Assembly: In cups or bowls, layer crushed meringues, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Add a generous mix of berries on top and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

4. Serving: The dessert can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a few minutes. It is best enjoyed fresh to savor the crispy texture of the meringues.

Practical Tips

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of fruits, such as peaches, mangoes, or kiwis, to add a tropical flavor. You can also add a fruit sauce or chocolate glaze for an extra touch of flavor.

- Acidity: If you want to balance the sweetness, you can drizzle the fruits with a bit of lemon or lime juice before adding them to the cups.

- Storage: If you have leftover meringues, they can be stored in an airtight container, but the whipped cream should be consumed immediately, as it will soften.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use a different type of cream?: Yes, you can use plant-based creams or other vegan alternatives to create a dairy-free dessert.

- How can I make the dessert lower in calories?: You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or replace the meringues with a lighter option, such as oat cookies.

- Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?: Yes, Pavlova is a vegetarian dessert, but it is not vegan due to the use of egg whites.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This Mini Pavlova in cups recipe contains approximately 200-250 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Berries are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, providing not only a pleasant taste but also health benefits. The cream adds a touch of indulgence, but when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Serving Suggestions

For an added touch of sophistication, you can serve Mini Pavlova alongside a fruit tea or sparkling wine, which will perfectly complement the sweetness of the dessert. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add an extra dimension to this dessert.

Conclusion

Mini Pavlova in cups is the ideal dessert for festive moments or simply to treat yourself after a long day. With simple yet quality ingredients, you can create a delight that will win hearts and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don’t hesitate to experiment and bring a touch of creativity to each serving!